Everything you need to know about tablescaping

What is tablescaping and what’s included in a tablescape?  

Laila: Tablescaping is styling your table, just as we style ourselves. I think we can approach table styling in a similar way.

Why has it become so popular?  

Laila: It’s another form of self-expression. You can express yourself through your clothing, and you can also express yourself through your home, whether that's through the furniture or the tablescape.

What makes a great tablescape?  

Laila: A great tablescape is one that feels like your own. It’s kind of like the difference between being stylish and being fashionable. I think it’s more important to have a style than to follow trends, and the same goes for tables. Make it your own.

What are other factors to consider when decorating your table?  

Mette: I don’t think a table setting needs to be perfect. I often combine different plates and glasses, for example. That also ties in nicely with the thinking behind the Sobremesa collection, as it's designed to be mixed and matched with the objects you already own.  

Do you have any rules for how to set a dinner table?  

Mette: My rule is that there are no rules. I love to turn it into a bit of a puzzle, and to try different things every time.

Laila: I think it’s important to follow your instincts and do something that feels personal and representative of who you are. 

What advice would you give someone hosting for the first time?  

Mette: Something that Laila said a while ago, and I couldn’t agree more: “Don’t stress too much, be fully present, instead.” Always remember that the guests are attending your gathering because they like your company and want to spend time with you.

What’s a hosting hack you’ve discovered over the years?  

Mette: Fresh ingredients always look beautiful, as do fresh flowers. Using cloth napkins or a tablecloth also makes for an easy yet impactful extra touch - it's like putting a dress or lipstick on.  

Laila: This isn’t a hack, but I’d say don’t overcomplicate the food. Keep it simple and spend time with your guests, as opposed to by the stove.

Where do you look for tablescaping ideas and inspiration?  

Mette: Laila Gohar!

Laila: I look to nature mostly. 

Tell us about the collection you’ve created together.

Mette: We’ve always admired each other’s work, so it felt very natural to work together. It was a gut feeling, too. The Sobremesa collection celebrates the joy of hosting, and everything connected to a good, shared meal – going to the market to shop for groceries, setting the table, decoration, and the tableware itself. It was important for us not to tell people how we think they should set their table, but quite the opposite. This collection was made so that everyone could create their own universe with it. One thing I love about the Sobremesa pieces is that they look beautiful by themselves, but they become even more beautiful once you put them to use and serve food in them. 

Laila: The theme is joy and celebrating everyday life. I designed Sobremesa during lockdown, and it was the thing that gave me hope and made me believe there would be a light at the end of the tunnel.