Harling compares his own method to his process of putting together a good outfit. “I usually start with the most assertive basic element, which in the case of tables is usually a tablecloth or placemats, and I build from there by mixing other pieces with colors or patterns that complement it, ”she says. His approach highlights a unique ability to organize colorful plates and combine seemingly contrasting patterns in one place.
In fact, the writer places a lot of emphasis on maintaining a style that feels distinctly personal, describing her own sensibilities as “stubborn.” Harling’s dedication is evident in the haunting table patterns that dot her Instagram feed. “I would always prefer my taste to be a little different, even if that means it’s a little weird sometimes,” she adds.
Harling is inspired by contemporary brands like The Sette, Coming Soon, Estelle Colored Glass, YOWIE, Les Ottomans, Misette, Saber, Edie Parker and Lisa Corti. While different in their approaches to curation, what these retailers have in common is an assortment of bright and colorful tableware combined with a cheerful, vibrant aesthetic that rivals dollhouse dining sets. “I’m also obsessed with plates, so that’s part of that too,” she says. “If I could fill my apartment with plates instead of furniture, I probably would.”
For those who wish to try decorating a table at home, one trick Harling highly recommends is to use a blanket as a tablecloth. She says it’s an easy way to add variety to a table without having to purchase additional placemats or tablecloths. “In this table landscape that I shared on Instagram recently, the vintage kantha quilt that I usually keep as a blanket on the edge of my sofa doubles as a tablecloth,” says Harling. Another pro tip is to incorporate floral elements to add a softer touch to an eclectic mix of thicker fabrics and materials. Harling’s favorites are the fringed-edged tulips, which she describes as “hearty,” but which are sometimes hard to find.
A colorful table setting with a striped blanket, pink candles and a set of shaded serving plates by Jono Pandolfi.
Photo: Harling Ross AntonUltimately, Harling aspires to be the type of person who hosts dinner parties. While she hasn’t been able to make this fantasy come true due to the pandemic, her fascination with the aesthetics around them has allowed her to pursue table setting with more intention. “I’m going to get a feel for what I want something to look or feel like, and once that happens I’m very determined to make it look like this in real life – or at least like that. bring it closer, ”she concludes. “As I prefer to buy vintage interior design when possible, this kind of obsession leads to a lot of dead ends before it leads to anything promising, but that’s what makes it very satisfying if and when it all turns out. brings together. “
How to decorate a table on your own
- Start with a statement base like a patterned tablecloth or doilies.
- Choose a set of utensils and arrange them on a colorful or delicate napkin of your choice.
- Organize your plates: match them all or create a more eclectic mix of different patterns and sizes.
- Select a few pieces of vintage glassware to add texture.
- Add a bouquet of flowers from your local florist to impress future dinner guests.
Here are 13 of Harling’s most essential table accessories:
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