Top tips to create stunning tablescapes for your next at-home party

The festive season is in full swing, and your dining table is the hottest seat in the house. A meal to remember, however, is more than what you put on the plate: the table setting tells a story, sparks conversation and conjures memories.

Whether it’s a barbecue, festive brunch or glamourous dinner party, a fabulously dressed table sets the mood, and no style has more impact than one that embraces the colour and vibrance of maximalism. 

“It’s a style that breaks away from the clean lines of minimalism and follows the philosophy that ‘more is more’,” says designer Bonnie Ashley from Bonnie and Neil.

“The most important aspect of it, though, is enjoying yourself and having fun with your decorating.”

We asked the experts how to plan and style a table that is anything but ordinary.

Creating a vision

Deciding on a theme and colour palette is the first step to designing your maximalist tablescape. It will guide every styling choice and element, from table linen and glassware to flowers and music. 

“Explore your theme and dive deep into dressing the table that way,” says designer Heleena Trahanas from Alex and Trahanas.

“It could be a colour or a cuisine, such as Italian or Greek, that gives you clear direction for the menu, drinks, table linen, serveware, glassware, cutlery, florals – even the sound, smells, feelings and textures.”

Choose a colour palette that elevates your theme.

“It doesn’t have to be a rainbow,” says stylist Aimee Tarulli. “Use soft tonal shades that complement your interiors, and add bolder colours with florals.” 

Ashley agrees, saying, “A colour theme guides the decor, and I like to mix patterns that complement rather than be too matchy-matchy.

“The time of day, type of event, and food I’m serving also help me with styling decisions.”

Layer like a pro

Every element of your maximalist table should be added with careful consideration, starting with tablecloths, placemats and napkins in block colours or harmonising prints that ground your scheme.

“A plain-coloured tablecloth ensures your table doesn’t overwhelm,” Tarulli says. “Use it as the base and add contrasting coloured placemats and then napkins to build depth.” 

Create a cohesive look with the essentials: dinnerware, cutlery and different-coloured glassware.

“We use high-contrasting colour combinations such as green and pink, and orange and blue,” Trahanas says.

“Use neutrals to harmonise and balance the colours and prints. It allows them to sing.”  

Ashley has fun with statement tabletop accessories such as quilted placemats, vibrant glassware, brass place-card holders and colourful cutlery.

“Decorative fruit and vegetables look gorgeous, too,” she says. “Try styling an abundant citrus-printed tablecloth with lemons scattered across it.” 

Create a standout centrepiece, such as a floral arrangement or a cluster of candles, then add the other elements around it at varying heights.

“Look for interesting serveware in organic shapes and dishes with height,” Tarulli says. 

Candles, flowers, produce, and food are also simple to stagger at different levels.

“We use our hand-painted ceramic fruit bowl stands to create an impact, which also provides more space for other serveware,” Trahanas says.

Consider your ceiling as the fifth wall of your space and use it to elevate your theme.

“Suspend decorative motifs above the table from the ceiling,” suggests stylist Megan McCaw from Trilogy. “Incorporate artwork, feature lighting, candelabras, urns and plinths to form a backdrop and anchor your table in the space.”

Importantly, take the time to stand back while you style and observe your work from all angles.

“It ensures the table’s story is clear,” she says. “The biggest mistake we see is clutter; you need to know when to pare back and refine.”

Guests first

As important as the styling is your table’s functionality.

“Large florals can look magnificent, but if it’s a seated event, your guests need to be able to converse,” Ashley says. “Add smaller vases with florals and, if your menu includes shared platters of food, allow plenty of room for them.”

Pay special attention to your lighting, ensuring it is flattering, ambient and bright enough for your guests to eat. 

“Start with brighter lighting as the party starts and then dim as the night goes on,” Tarulli suggests. “Use candles to create a special ambience.”

Most of all, find joy in setting a table that is so beautiful it almost upstages the food.

“Don’t be afraid of colour – it always ignites joy!” Trahanas says. “Just have fun and enjoy the process.”