Monthly Archives: December 2021

It is the time of year when the weather warms up and we invite friends and family over to share a meal, and of course the biggest meal of the summer – Christmas dinner – is just days away!

At the Importer, we love a well-styled dining table, and it’s not as tricky as you may think!

We have put together a few simple steps to help you set a magazine-worthy dining table.

Step 1. Select a table runner and placemats

We love a layered look, especially in summer. Choose a runner that matches with your overall theme, and place this down the middle of the table. Then choose either contrasting or matching placemats and set at each place – if you like you can stack a smaller placemat on top for stunning effects.

Step 2. Dinnerware

There’s no better time to treat yourself and your guests to beautiful new dinnerware, you can find new colour schemes and patterns that are great for Christmas! If you already have a set you love, that will work perfectly too! Continuing with layers, stack your plates and bowls in the centre of each placemat. Set a large dinner plate at the bottom, then place a side plate on top, and follow with a bowl. To finish, add a napkin atop the bowl – a napkin ring is very effective here, used with material or paper napkins.

Step 3. Cutlery and glassware layout

Laying cutlery and glasses is a simple step -place a fork to the left of the plate and a knife on the right of the plate. Next to the knife, to the right, place a spoon. Add a water glass in the top right, above the knife and a wine glass to the right of the waterglass.

Step 4. Centrepiece and finishing touches

A lovely vase of flowers, fresh or artificial, is always a safe bet for a centerpiece – for Christmas events you may like to create a festive floral center piece. You can also add garlands or other pieces (like Christmas baubles or pinecones) down the middle of the table. Get creative with this part and let your individual style flow, use things from around the home or from the garden, but keep a light hand.

For a wealth of dinner table inspiration, including placemats, plates, bowls, glassware, vases or even a whole new table, visit us in store!

So many of us love the beach- the relaxation, the fun and the beautiful views… so it makes sense we want to bring that feeling into our homes!

The classic coastal style is bright, white, airy with beautiful timbers and textures mixed in, it’s all about letting beachside nature in.

Follow our tips to create a relaxing coastal vibe in your home.

Mix Wood Textures

If you’re lucky enough to be working with a room that already has a timber floor, ceiling or walls – use them! Make these features stand out by bringing furniture and decorative items into the room that mix up timber colours. We suggest rattan coffee tables, side tables or cabinets, whitewashed timber pieces also will look fabulous. Then layer this look by adding decorative pieces like stools and wall décor. Always go for a rustic look when choosing timber items.

Light Colored Upholstered Furniture

When selecting furniture for the space, go with light colours for the couch, ottomans or covered stools. This is a fabulous contrast to timber pieces and will help to brighten the space. Large, plush lounge suites are also perfect for a coastal look.

Flooring

Seek out woven or jute mats to bring things together on the floor. Light and natural-coloured rugs are key here to keep the room bright, if you have timber floors choose a small rug that will add an element to the room without covering up the beautiful floor.

Wall Art

On the walls, add either a breezy canvas that uses blues and natural colours throughout the image, you may want to include artwork of the beach with sand. When opting for a canvas, go for frames that have light timber frames, to tie the piece into the room. The other option for wall art is art made from natural fibres, for example, a woven piece!

Creating coastal style is about making a relaxing space so go with your instincts and choose pieces you find to have a calming effect and bring purpose to the room.

If you love this style idea or have always dreamt of a coastal home, come and see us in-store!