Take 5: Tablescape Pinspiration & How To Get The Look

Remember when laying the table simply meant getting out the knives and forks? These spring tablescapes on Pinterest are magical – here’s how to add drama or romance to your repast.

Tablescaping entered the lexicon in 2003, when US television chef Sandra Lee first coined the hybrid phrase. In recent years, it has gathered momentum to become an artform all of its own, with some Insta-savvy folk even making whole careers out of their much-considered table presentation.

And yet, the desire to elevate a feast to something really special by making it beautiful as well as delicious is nothing new. In the 1930s, beautifying the table was practised competitively in America at county fairs. And one need only think of Downton Abbey, along with a clutch of other costume dramas – or indeed to have visited any National Trust property – to know that we have long cared deeply about the lavishness of the table. The Greeks and Romans enjoyed a well-laid table, as evidenced both in archaeological discoveries, and in works of literature. Petronius’ Dinner With Trimalchio, for example, tells the satiric tale of an overly opulent dinner served by an ex-slave who embodies ‘new money’ and serves gaudily elaborate food from gaudily elaborate bowls and goblets.

In medieval times, such sensibilities declined, and setting the table merely meant ensuring the trestles were sturdy enough to hold the meat about to be devoured. But times and tastes began changing with the Renaissance, rippling outward from its Italian nucleus. And in accordance, gradually the tablescapes were restored to lavishness once more.

Today we might focus less on how shiny the silver is and more on a theme or a general ambiance, but we’re no less devoted to the idea of transporting ourselves and our guests to somewhere magical, far from the daily routine of feeding ourselves and our kids. As its trailblazer, Sandra Lee, reflects, ‘It’s so much more fun when you organise your table around a theme, don’t you think?’

Here is some Pinspiration, as well as ideas for how to ape the look.

French Elegance

This set-up took place at Chateau Diter on the Côte d’Azur and we would heartily love to inhabit the picture and settle in for a long lunch. It screams elegance (and, of course, it helps if you have the classic French dining chairs to hand – not to mention a handy loggia to set up under).

Get The Look

Amazon

White Gauze Table Runner, £37.40

Etsy

Pink Candles, £12

Etsy

Vintage Brass Chalice, £13

Rowen & Wren

Bingley Brass Candlestick, £18

Nordic Colour Pop

We love this set up. Fun, simple and full of colour, it demonstrates that you need not go OTT to make an impression.

Get The Look

The Mamahood

Dip-Dye Neon Candles, £16

Zazzle

White Cartoon Clouds Tablecloth, £92.60

Anthropologie

Sutton Taper Holder, £14

H&M Home

Cotton Velvet Cushion Cover, £12.99

Patio Prettiness

Longer evenings call for al fresco suppers. Whether you have a country idyll or a small city patio, you can still make it magical with the use of candlelight.

Get The Look

Nkuku

Timo Tealight Chandelier, £45

1st Dibs

Pair of Rare 60s Alabaster Table Lamps, £467.24 per set

Etsy

Egyptian Alabaster Candle Holder - Round Alabaster Votive Candle Holder, £63.99

Summerill & Bishop

Handblown Glass Teardrop Jug With Handle, £84

Floral Tribute

Sometimes, all you really need to lift a table is armfuls and armfuls of flowers. This pretty example is ideal for a summer wedding – or just a really special get together in the garden under the dappled sun.