When it comes to maximalist design, no one captures this style quite so well as celebrity interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard. Known for his eclectic design taste that channels bold prints, rich colors, and luxe materials, Bullard certainly knows how to create maximalist and ultra-sophisticated homes.
That's no different when it comes to creating dinner table setups, with the expert designer channeling a vibrant approach that results in personalized and creative table settings.
Taking to Instagram, the designer shared a video that talks through his top tips on how to set a table, and it's providing us with plenty of inspiration for the coming months as we anticipate the season of festive dinner parties.
'The art of setting a dinner table really is an art and it lets you be very, very creative,' Bullard begins the video with. We're in agreement, and so to help you capture this experimental approach to dining table styling, we've summarized Bullard's best tips below for you to follow, as well as rounding up some Bullard-inspired dinnerware items to help you on your way.
Layer the dinnerware
Dinnerware undoubtedly forms a key part of setting the table, so it's a good starting point when it comes to choosing the overall tone of the table. 'I always like to mix things up a little bit, particularly with my dinnerware,' the designer explains.
Bullard's preference is to create a layered look with dinner plates, mismatching the colors and sizes of plates which adds interest. Whether you prefer a pared-back look or a colorful and maximalist look, you can experiment with layering different styles as much or as little as you like to suit your preferences.
Each piece in this stoneware dinnerware set is handmade and features glazed detailing, making an excellent starting point for your table styling.
These glass dishes are perfect for creating a layered look to the table, whilst adding a nod to vintage-inspired design.
Featuring bold blue and white stripes, this plate brings a playful look to the dinner table and is ideal for creating a maximalist layered look.
Opt for colored glassware
Bullard opts to style his table with glasses of varying colors, including a vivid green which pairs with his abovementioned dinner plates, and a rich purple option which he explains provides 'a bit more character' to the setup.
Follow Bullard's advice and experiment with playful colors with your glassware, or if you prefer, keep things classic with uncolored glass for a timeless look.
Sold in a set of four, these wine glasses in the shade 'wine' bring a pop of sophisticated color to your glassware collection.
This wine glass features a smoke bubble finish for an elevated look, while their sturdy shape makes them a practical choice.
These old-fashioned glasses have a smoke-colored finish and a tapered shape that is guaranteed to add interest to the table.
Finish the look with napkins
Lastly, setting a dinner table can really be enhanced by napkins, as explained by Bullard: 'Napkins are a really inexpensive way to change this up. You can buy many colors and refresh the look of your table constantly.'
Bullard opts for a purple set of napkins which compliments the matching glassware, creating a bold and vibrant look. The use of rich colors on the table, such as those used by Bullard is a particularly fitting choice for this time of year: the upcoming winter months are the perfect time to embrace the warming and deep shades associated with fall decor ideas.
If you're more drawn to an understated look, opt for neutral-colored napkins that are versatile to pair well with many different design styles.
These napkins are made from 100% natural linen and are perfect for creating a fall-inspired look.
Made from 100% cotton, these rich green napkins are a timeless choice and will work well during the winter months.
Crafted from solid polished brass, this napkin ring is a classic design that works well with many different colors and styles of napkins.
Whatever style of tableware you opt for, remember to experiment and see it as a way to channel your own creativity. As Bullard says: 'It is always fun to be creative and it just somehow makes dinner taste so much better.'
Looking for some more table styling ideas? We've rounded up our top fall table decor ideas to give you some more inspiration for creating stunning table settings this fall.
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