The Art of Setting a Sublime Summer Table

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

Designing a stunning tablescape involves more than just plates, flatware and a vase of flowers; but that doesn’t mean it has to be difficult to create. Inspiration can be found just about anywhere, from your own backyard garden or forest to international travel.

I recently returned from a trip to Italy, where I found inspiration while walking a market street in Tuscany. Summer is in full swing both here and in the villages I spent time in, so upon my return, I recreated a few of my favorite scenes. Mimicking everything from Tuscany’s country markets to elaborate blooms from floral shops, I love to deck my tables with flower power.

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

For one of my tables, I used deep blue crystal glasses reminiscent of Tuscany’s coastline, along with a blue, green and white floral tablecloth. Hand-embroidered cotton napkins gave the setting a country feel, as did clay pottery and wildflowers from the fields.

Overall, wildflowers make wonderful additions to a casual afternoon or evening meal. After all, the difference between a flower and a weed is simply perception; the purple blooms of thistles act as great accents on a table, whether just a few stems alone or sprigs popping out of a bouquet.

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

A series of live-edge serving boards can set a pretty scene for a natural-looking table. Here, I placed local, seasonal flowers in clay vases for an earthy feel to match the wood element on the table. Light pink crystal glasses mix with more casual ice-tea glasses, while clay pottery dishes set the stage for the meal to come.

A glimmer of candlelight adds a sophisticated glow, and fresh fruits and vegetables scattered along the bases of the vessels give it that feeling of abundance which inherently comes with summer’s bounty. A simple ivory linen grounds the entire tablescape, so as not to distract from all of the rich colors and textures.

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

Elegant summer flowers such as roses blend gorgeously with various blooms like zinnias and cosmos. Here, I capitalized on the pinks and reds of the petals, dotted with yellows, oranges and a touch of white, by pairing chunky, playful pastel dishes with pink and red placemats (which, by the way, can also be used on Valentine’s Day). The fun, youthful vibe of the table helps foster laughter and love.

I introduced a bit of southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast to Colorado by setting the table with a green and white tablecloth and light-green glassware from a shop in Tuscany. The hanging red peppers and tomatoes add verticality, while the red candles complement the décor.

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

This summer, as you envision your table setting — whether you’re hosting a gathering inside or outside — consider what stands out about a location you want to convey, whether that’s local or abroad. Then, begin to layer in colors, textures, shapes, patterns and proportions to create a balanced table.

The time you spend attending to little details is sure to make your guests feel welcomed and special, and make your meal together memorable.

Photo: Courtesy of Kasia Karska

Architect/Builder/Designer Kasia Karska is the owner of the boutique design-build firm, Kasia Karska Design, located in Vail Valley, Colorado. To learn more, view their profile or contact Kasia and her team at 970-343-2302.

Content for this article is provided by Kasia Karska Design.