The holiday season is upon us, and with it the opportunity to create beautifully-designed and decorated spaces in our home.
Every party begins with a theme. Today, I am choosing the tabletop as my design space. As an interior designer and creator of beautiful spaces, I find holiday design and decorating to be one of my favorite creative adventures.
Festive colors, colorful place settings, and an array of well balanced decorative items will sparkle in the soft glow of a few candles. (Photos provided)
To begin, start with table linens. I use several layers to create interest and define my color theme. Tablecloths, runners, placemats, cording, ribbon, and ornaments start the layering process.
Add a centerpiece that is larger than life and makes a beautiful statement. You are looking to generate a “WOW” response from your guests. Be creative with choices. Mix different elements together. I like my tables to be balanced, not necessarily everything symmetrical and everything matched perfectly. The goal is to create an interesting, visually appealing tablescape using different but complementary elements, textures, and colors.
Build up from the top of the table to create a design element of elevation and to add dimension and interest with varying items. For this design I chose a floral centerpiece, with varying displays of ornaments and decorative items. I’ve added visual interest, while maintaining the balance around the table.
Use the element of height or elevation to create drama and interest with your buffet. Add balance and texture with an array of items that complement. Not everthing has to match perfectly.
Remember that lighting creates the mood in a room. Use the dimmer switch on overhead lighting. Use accent lighting in the room. Light candles on the table for a soft glow. You and your guests will look more beautiful in a softly-lit room.
Beauty, elegance, and fun are the goal of a great tablescape design. Make your guests feel special when they walk into your home. Create the “WOW” factor for them with color, beautiful place settings, and decorative accessories.
Linda Cogdill is a resident of Neighborhood 10A. She has lived in Del Webb just over 7 years. Her design firm is Design One Interiors, Ltd. She can be reached via e-mail at design.one.interiors001@gmail.com, or by phone 847-659-9282.
