Table Setting Ideas

Take inspiration from our decorating ideas for creating a luxurious bed or a warm, inviting living room to give your home a fresh, modern vibe. Now we’re here to share tips on giving your table a fresh, modern look with the best table setting ideas.

Table settings can be used in more places than just your dining table. Place them on your kitchen counter, outdoor patio table or breakfast bar. You can even use them for a special meal around the coffee table.

Whether you set your table only on special occasions (such as holiday dinner parties) or leave your dining table beautifully set at all times, take inspiration from our modern table setting ideas to give your dining space the perfect finishing touch.

We have some concepts and tips that will make setting your table simple and stylish. The secret to an eye-catching table setting is the layers; layering a combination of texture, colour and accessories creates a rich, beautiful tables cape.

These arrangements will inspire you to doll up an average weeknight dinner, and help you sail through the prep for the most formal affairs.

Jewel Tones

Pick rich gemstone hues to balance out geometric elements. The graphic black-and-white stripes are surprising against the muted jewel tones.

Decorative Items

These will give your table a personal touch like no other. Use items that have a common theme or a personal meaning throughout the table and place settings. Some ideas for decorative items include:

• Objects such as bird figurines or small, colourful vases

• Unusual napkin rings

• Holiday-related items such as fall leaves, pumpkins, reindeer or small Christmas trees

• Place setting name holders

• Small bundles of flowers or herbs for each place setting

White on White

Pile on textiles in the same hue for a lush yet cohesive look. Layering antique white place mats and a tablecloth adds texture rather than warring colours or patterns.

Casual

Pretty up a spontaneous get-together with colour, pattern and any unusual finds you're tempted to try. Family dinners never looked so good.

Table Linens

Linens will set your table apart from the ordinary. Luckily, there is a huge variety of stylish, affordable table linen choices. Keep a box or drawer filled with the different linens listed below in colors, textures and patterns that mix and match. Some holiday-themed linens are also worth keeping in your linen box to add some holiday fun to your table settings. Essentials include:

Formal

If you're dressing up for the occasion, don't forget to deck out the table the same way. Pull out all the stops: stemmed glassware, elaborate centrepieces and of course the good silverware.

Colourful

Pack a visual punch like one of these monochrome tables. Just stay within your chosen colour palette for a wow-worthy first impression.

Candles

Candles are an easy way to make a bold table statement; that’s why we’ve given them their own category. Use plenty of candles on your dining table. They’ll cast a warm glow and create sparkle if strategically placed near shiny objects.