Setting a tablescape goes beyond creating a visually appealing and cohesive look, it’s also a fun way of expressing who you are and showcasing your creativity and attention to detail. A tablescape can be set for various occasions, such as weddings, dinner parties, birthdays or even just everyday dining.
There is something very satisfying about choosing the colours, textures and accessories to set your table and seeing it all come together into a harmonious arrangement. If you’re yet to dip your toe into the world of tablescaping or looking for some inspiration for your next get-together, don’t go anywhere. We’ve shared our tips for styling your favourite Spode heritage-inspired designs for summer.
A Mediterranean summer tablescape with Blue Italian
For this look, colours and textures are key, taking inspiration from the Mediterranean landscape with blues, oranges and fresh neutrals. Start your tablescape with a bold tablecloth. Here we’ve opted for horizontal stripes in blue and white to bring the coastal vibes without too much of a nautical feel. A runner in a complementing block colour breaks up the pattern and draws the eye. We’ve layered a vibrant orange runner on a yellow one to add extra depth and detail. Don't have a table runner? Simply fold your tablecloth to a width to suit the size of your table, et voila!
Once you have your base, it’s time to layer on the extra details. Use the runner as a guide for styling your centrepiece and intertwine vases and candle holders in shades of yellow, blue and gold with bright-coloured florals. For a summer tablescape, you’ll most likely find yourself setting up outside, so why not use the lush green plants around you to your advantage and incorporate them into your scene?
Finally, it’s time for the finishing touches. Place a setting for each of your guests – we’ve opted for fabric placemats in a deep blue shade to match the tablecloth and Blue Italian crockery, layering a dinner plate, side plate and bowl. Orange striped napkins are incorporated into the individual settings, tying in the pattern and colours of the base linens. Gold cutlery finishes off the tablescape, and effortless touches, such as cushions and throws, add a relaxed feel to the overall setting.
A fresh maximalist tablescape with Morris & Co.
If the idea of styling a maximalist tablescape intrigues you, but the idea of a loud and over-the-top setting leaves you feeling overwhelmed, don’t fret - our Morris & Co. fresh maximalist-inspired tablescape is the one for you. This alternative vision is easier to handle, softer and much gentler on the eye.
Perfect for a relaxed brunch or late afternoon dinner, start by laying a patterned runner along your table. Our Strawberry Thief runner showcases an iconic pattern in calming shades of pink and green. Pairing patterned linen against a clean, uncovered, natural table allows breathing space and lays the agenda for the fresh maximalist approach.
From here, lay your place settings – we’ve opted for round green fabric placemats to complement the shades and shapes of the linen, tableware and table. We’ve then layered the mix-and-match crockery, starting with a Strawberry Thief charger plate to match the runner, layered with a Standen dinner plate, and topped with a side plate featuring a different pattern for each guest. Patterned cotton napkins are folded and placed at each setting, with a sprig of greenery to continue the fresh aesthetic. Although there is a mix of patterns featured, they’re all showcased in shades from the same colour palette, which allows them to sit together with ease.
Finish your tablescape with a clear vase filled with fresh flowers, pink and green candlesticks for added height, clear glassware and gold cutlery. This easy to achieve maximalist tablescape is ideal for injecting a little joy into your summer setting.
A tropical tablescape with Zoological Gardens
There’s always time for tea and cake, especially when the sun is shining, and our Zoological Gardens afternoon tea collection looks glorious, styled with bright hues and contrasting patterns for a vibrant tablescape to match the mood.
To achieve this look, you’ll need a mix of linens, some colourful accessories and vibrant florals in matching shades. The colours and patterns featured on the Zoological Gardens serveware form the inspiration for the whole table. Start by laying a neutral-coloured tablecloth with just a hint of texture, as this enables the pattern from the tableware and linens to stand out. Next, add a table runner and napkins – we’ve opted for patterned linens in complementary shades of monochrome and pink. This ties everything together while adding to the maximalist style Zoological Gardens is all about.
Finally, add blue-tinted glassware, a mix of colourful vases, pink flowers and gold cutlery to finish the styling. All that’s then left to add is the mix-and-match cake stand, teapot, mugs and cake plates in the pink, monochrome and turquoise shades to bring it all together. Oh, and don’t forget the cake!
Feeling inspired to style your own Spode tablescape for your summer celebration? Shop the collections featured: