CityState : Current l Edited by Jamie Coelho
Tabletop Styling for Newbies
Learn seasonal tips and tricks to make your coffee table and dining room table go from drab to fab . By Samantha Labrecque
Changing up a space in your home can be a great way to welcome a new season or holiday . Rather than focusing on a whole room , start small ; hone in on a specific area like your coffee table or dining room table and style it like a pro .
Coffee Table
� Your coffee table is the centerpiece of your main living space , so make it both beautiful and functional .
� Maintain balance . Grouping several large items together can make the tabletop feel heavy , while all small items can feel cluttered . Mix it up ! � Use greenery . Fresh or faux , it doesn ’ t matter what you use . Florals add a pop of color to the space .
� Add height . Items of different heights carry your eye toward the display .
� Include a tray , whether it ’ s wood , glass , metal or marble . The tray serves as the anchor piece on your coffee table and prevents items from feeling as if they are floating .
� Mix elements and use objects made from glass , wood and linens for both color and texture variation .
HOW TO : If you have a wooden table , soften the top with a linen table runner . Then , find a tray that fits your style . Use a book or two to incorporate both color and texture . Next , add greenery for color and height and place the vase on top of the books . Lastly , add a candle ( see our Style spread on page 20 ) to the vignette , which adds warmth especially when lit .
Dining Table Setting
� Keep your setting simple so it can be left out for both everyday use and decor . You don ’ t have to wait for the next dinner party to make this surface shine .
� Use neutral-colored dishware that can be displayed all year long but change the linens with colors that match the seasons ( warm hues like yellow and amber in the fall ). This offers variety and a pop of color .
� Find napkin rings that match the season , too — leaves , pumpkins or fall flowers , etc .
� Clear glassware can be used any time of the year , but if it is colored , coordinate with the seasonal colors of leaves .
� Add height to the center of the table with a floral display .
HOW TO : Start with the plates as the base pieces . Then , place napkin rings around the napkins and put one in the center of each plate . Place the silverware on the side of the plate and the drinkware at the top right corner . Repeat this for each table setting . For a final touch , place florals for both height and a soft texture in the middle of the table .
Find more styling tips and tricks at instagram . com / the617farmhouse .
RHODE ISLAND MONTHLY l NOVEMBER 2020 17