Tablescaping, Part 1 - Thoughts on Design - Episode 8

Thoughts on Design - featuring Kim Carroll Interiors

As the holidays approach, we start to think about doing more entertaining at home. Kim likes to delight and surprise her guests by creating a visual dining experience, before the meal even appears. In this first part of her Tablescape Series, Kim explains how she designs unique tables.
How does Kim approach doing a tablescape that is unique? Beginning with an idea or theme, Kim suggests that we should start with what we have and build around it.
Then she advises tablescaping in layers. The first layer is the table, then the linens, dishes, drinking glasses and flatware. She always includes candles and some kind of centerpiece or floral arrangement.
By using things we already have and thinking about them in clever ways (such as using outdoor lanterns on the dining room table), we can add an element of surprise while keeping down expenses.
Kim also thinks about multiple dimensions and other surfaces, including the chandelier and outer walls of the room. These additional layers can be appreciated both before and during a meal, adding richness to a wonderful dining experience.