Tableware

The art of the table is the idea that the meal deserves to be prepared — the table as well as the dishes.

There are two ways to put a table. The first is to place plates, glasses and cutlery. The second is to compose a space that tells each guest that it was expected, that the meal was carefully prepared, that this moment counts. That's the one.tablescape — not a question of impeccable appearance or ceremonial, but attention to the details that turn an ordinary meal into a memorable moment. One Tablet in creased linen, sandstone plates with unique glazes, blown glass glasses, a table runner with some candles in the center — this simple composition is enough to completely change the atmosphere of a dinner. At Amberkiln, our collection of tablescape covers all the elements that participate in this art: dishes, glasses, table linen, cutlery, carafe and teapots, candles and table accessories — to make a table that looks like you.

The elements of the art of the table and their hierarchy

A nice table is based on a clear hierarchy between the elements — some structuring, others detailing. Understanding this hierarchy makes it possible to make the right choices as a priority.

Dishware is the central element. Plates — flat, hollow, dessert — define the style of the table more than any other element. An artisanal sandstone plate immediately gives a natural spirit to the table; a fine porcelain plate with a golden edge creates a formal and elegant atmosphere; a botanical plate imposes a strong decorative universe that all the rest of the table must accompany. It is often the dishes that you choose first, and around which you compose the rest.

The table linen — tablecloth, table runner, towels, sets — is the backdrop on which everything else is placed. His choice must both protect the table, create heat and harmonize with the dishes. A plain tablecloth leaves all the freedom for the dishes to express themselves; a tablecloth with motifs imposes its own character and requires a more sober dishes.

Glassware is often underestimated in tablescape. The glasses with well-selected water and wine — transparent, mouth blown, slightly tinted recycled glass — participate in the visual composition of the table and the taste experience. A wine drunk in a fine and well-scanned glass does not objectively taste the same as in a thick and heavy glass.

The decorative table elements — candles and candlesticks, vases with a few flowers, small objects, brand-places — move the table from functionality to staging. Pillar candles of different heights in brass candlesticks, some dried flowers in a small sandstone vase, calligraphed placemarks — these details that take ten minutes to prepare radically change the perception of the meal by the guests. The teapot laid at the centre of the table, it belongs to these utilitarian objects whose beauty is sufficient to be decorative — a beautiful object that perfectly fulfills its function and needs nothing else to exist.

tablescape in everyday life vs. special occasions

The art of the table is not reserved for special occasions — it is a daily practice that can be modulated according to the time and the company. For everyday meals, a few simple gestures are enough: a nice tablecloth or table sets, plates that make you want, clean and well-chosen glasses. The quick table runner in the centre, two candles lit in the evening — it takes two minutes and it completely changes the atmosphere of the meal. For dinners with friends, you can climb a clean tablecloth, dishes staged, wine glasses, floral composition or candles in the center, towels in carefully folded fabric. For the special occasions — New Year's Eve, important birthdays — the art of the table can go as far as we wish: fine porcelain service, crystal glasses, candle candles, fresh flowers, brand-places.

Gradually constitute his tablescape

We don't buy everything at once. The art of the table is gradually building up, in the course of desires, opportunities and discoveries. The wisest method: start with a beautiful, versatile dish — some sandstone plates in a neutral tone, simple but qualitative glasses — and gradually add the elements that enrich the composition. A linen table runner, a blown glass carafe, a few brass candles — each addition improves the table without having to start over. This progressive constitution has another advantage: it leaves time to find really loved pieces rather than to buy a comprehensive standardized service that looks like a thousand other tables.