Tablescaping: Design's New Obsession

For Decorex 2022 - the 44th edition of the luxury interior design event - we will introduce a brand-new feature called Diningscapes. Based on the industry's growing passion for designing gorgeous table settings, we explore this new-found obsession more closely.

Decorex Diningscapes

Decorex Diningscapes - a new feature that will appear at the next event, taking place 9-12th October 2022 - will see the art of tablescaping being embraced. The feature will involve 4 room-sets, each uniquely dressed by a handpicked designer. This will be the ideal place to spark your imagination.

Designers working on the project: Christian Bense, Pandora Taylor with Bonadea, Bertrando di Renzo with Les Ottomans and Natascha Dartnell with ND Studios. Each will bring their own flair and charm to their dedicated space.

Tablescaping: Why the Obsession?

Recognising the growing interest and passion for tableware, table dressing and elaborate dining arrangements, Decorex felt it was only right to celebrate it in the upcoming edition. But why have interior designers developed such an obsession with tablescapes? We caught up with a few of our Diningscapes designers to get their view.

"I think this is largley down to the fun and inventive tableware designs that are available on the market now, from striped glassware to illustrated plates and sculptural candle holders. You can really get creative and turn a normal meal into something a bit more special," says Pandora Taylor.

"In Italy we have always given great attention to tables and tablescaping as we spend a lot of time sitting around a table while we gather together for meals and socialising," Bertrando di Renzo adds.

"To me a curated table makes the room warmer, makes people more comfortable and at ease and at the same time is a nice way, for the host, to express his/her creativity," he comments.

Pandora Taylor | Past Project

3 Tips For Someone Trying Create a Curated Table Space...

Christian Bense suggests:

Add as many materials and finishes as possible.
Allow for adaptability
Remember that people interacting/using in the space are the ultimate accessory

Pandora Taylor suggests:

Think about what type of event you are dressing the table for and style accordingly, it is all about setting the mood, a breakfast table is going to look very different to a late night dinner for example.
Simple things like a table cloth or colourful napkins can elevate even a very simple table setting if you dont want to go all out.
Try and include something living, whether thats small potted plants or fresh flowers, it always creates a nice contrast.

Bertrando di Renzo suggests:

Use your imagination
Mix and match
Include colours and pattern

ND Studios | Diningscapes Designer

A Sneak Peek Into Their Diningscapes Designs for Decorex

Christian Bense's Design

"The idea is to create a space that feels lived in, curated and as close to a real dining room as possible. Whilst we have introduced traditional elements, such as fireplace, a bookcase full of antique books and a little reading nook, we wanted the table and the rest of the room to feel informal, contemporary and a little thrown together."

"I would say that most of the suppliers we are using have a presence on the Pimlico Road, and I think that alone sums up the types of suppliers we are drawn to. Contemporary makers, designing the antiques of tomorrow," Bense expalins.

Pandora Taylor's Design

"I was really inspired by the colourful and highly decorative pieces supplied by our Diningscapes partner Bonadea, I wanted to create something layered and beautiful like a highly decorated cake."

"I love mixing and matching, whether its different colour plates layered together or different coloured glasses, I like there to be an unexpected element," Taylor reveals.

Les Ottomans' Design

"My tablescape is all about tropical maximalism. My brand is based on patterns and colors and my tables are no different."

Christian Bense | Past Project