Expert tips on how to set your Christmas table
Genevieve Levy, Director at Knight Frank Interiors, shares her advice on mastering the art of tablescaping for the festive season
How important is the perfect table setting to festive celebrations?
Creating a stunning table setting sets the tone for the festivities ahead. Will you opt for simple elegance or showcase an eclectic mix of treasures collected over the years? Both approaches can be equally charming and suit different styles of homes.
What are your top tips for bringing your festive table to life?
Simplicity can be effortlessly chic and you really do not have to spend much in doing so. You can forage holly from your local park, or dry orange slices in a low oven (which has an added bonus of creating a lovely Christmassy smell around the house!). Personally, I love to add an array of candles to a table. Adding a selection of candle sticks in ornate holders which can easily be thrifted just adds the perfect festive ambience.
What are the key colour trends for the holidays?
Burgundy is one of the en-vogue colours this season and I think it ties in nicely with traditional Christmas red. This in addition to other natural colours from the outdoors such as forest greens and deep oranges are proving very popular. Did you know that 16th-century Germans were the first to bring trees indoors for the festive period? They believed the evergreen branches symbolised immortality, echoing Christ’s crown. Incorporating these wintery shades is a lovely way to bring a touch of nature into your décor.
Creating a stunning table setting sets the tone for the festivities ahead
What other design trends are you seeing this festive season?
This season we’re noticing a strong focus on sustainability, with many opting for natural and reusable materials. Handcrafted elements are also taking centre stage, from homemade ornaments to personalised touches like embroidered napkins and calligraphy place cards (which I am personally known around the office to make!). The trend leans towards thoughtful details that tell a story, making the home feel even more special and unique.
What’s your personal favourite part about Christmas?
I’m quite artistic, so I truly adore setting the scene, whether it’s arranging beautiful flowers for the table or crafting the aforementioned calligraphy place cards. And, of course, the festive feast is a highlight! My friend Nicola Lamb, an incredible pastry chef, makes a divine Yule Log that’s wonderfully light yet still packed with rich chocolatey goodness – the perfect pudding to round off a Christmas banquet.
