Tantalizing tablescapes
It seems that everyone has something to celebrate in May and June. The end of another school year, a family birthday, Mother’s Day, afternoon teas and bridal parties all coincide with the glorious spring and early summer weather. The simple fact that trees are in bloom and gardens are sprouting raises our spirits. These special occasions call for a party. And whether you are hosting inside or on the patio, large or small, planning a gathering to suit the occasion is easier if you have a few dishes and table accessories on hand that have a touch of elegance and a dash of character. What is more inviting than the sight of a table that has been set with flair and loving attention to detail? Every guest feels welcome and special.
There’s no shortage of tableware in store, and today’s message is mix and match. The Artesano series by Villeroy & Boch demonstrates that sentiment by pairing fine porcelain dishes with wooden footed plates and platters, large cork stoppers for spice jars and sugar bowls, acacia salad servers and candleholders. A unique three-tiered platestand features an acacia frame and slate shelves. Bowl and plate shapes vary, giving you plenty of choices for food presentation. The Artesano Original series is all white; the Artesano Provencal Lavender collection shown here features scattered sprigs of delicate lavender in strong shades of violet and dark-red buds. The radiant orange-red geranium blossoms of Artesano Provencal Verdure harmonize well with the lavender designs and shades. It’s a stylish variety of plain and patterned. Villeroy & Boch (www.villeroy-boch.ca) has candy-colored children’s cutlery and dishes, too.
Pure white linens are a classic, but any spring shade creates an enchanting background. Keep floral arrangements simple, add some pillar candles, and you and the table are set. This style is a take on contemporary country chic. It is formal enough to announce a special occasion, yet the materials and pattern mix are casual and comforting.
Q. I have bought a little house, and I would like to change the layout a bit. I hate that the bathroom opens directly from kitchen, and I would love to have a main floor laundry due to my arthritis.
Can you help me with a redesign? Thank you for your time. – Margaret
A. A main floor laundry is important to you right now, so I would transform the bathroom into your laundry room. A stacked washer and dryer take up little space. A main floor bathroom is also a necessary convenience. A toilet and small sink fit neatly into a hall closet. Be creative about making room elsewhere for outdoor coats and shoes. Wall hooks, a clothes tree and a few low shelves will take care of the closet storage.
You will need to hire a professional contractor or designer in order to make the kind of changes you are looking for. It can be costly to move or add plumbing, so you want to ensure that your redesign is done correctly.
Email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com.