From intimate garden gatherings to lively dinner parties, hosting is on the rise, as searches for ‘picnic ideas’ surged 134% in the past month, and Pinterest searches for “dinner party tablescapes” have soared by 55%, proving that beautifully curated dining experiences are more popular than ever.
A recent garden report by Barker and Stonehouse reveals that 53% of people are now using their garden for hosting and eating, suggesting that the focus is on creating dining spaces that feel as beautiful and inviting outdoors as they do inside.
Lena Gierasinska, Head of Product and Displays at Barker and Stonehouse shares, “Classic styles like biophilic design, curvaceous shapes, bold colour, and warm, inviting setups are shaping tablescapes for spring and summer.”
Here she shares how to bring this year’s top garden trends into your tablescapes for stylish summer soirees.
1. Biophilic and Botanical
“Indoor outdoor living and biophilic designs are having their moment within garden trends this year, as people look to seamlessly make their gardens an extension of their home.”, says Lena.
The recent garden report by Barker and Stonehouse also found wild gardens to be amongst the most popular garden designs, and this trend can be effortlessly incorporated through a tablescape for your summer soirees.
Lena advises, “Lush greenery, organic textures, and earthy tones create a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, making your dining space feel like a natural extension of your home.
A layered green palette in shades of emerald, moss, and sage adds depth and a fresh, inviting feel to the table, whilst botanical centrepieces using potted herbs, ivy, or eucalyptus garlands offer a more natural and effortless alternative to traditional floral arrangements.
You can also incorporate textural elements such as rattan chargers, wooden serving boards, and stoneware plates to introduce warmth and rustic charm. The combination of woven placemats and hand-blown glassware creates a beautifully curated mix of natural and refined materials.”
Greenery isn’t just a backdrop, she claims, explaining, “It is an integral part of the design. By layering different shades of green with soft neutral tones, you create a tablescape that feels natural, harmonious, and welcoming.”
2. Bright, Bold & Beautiful
We are seeing vibrancy and bold colours take centre stage within interiors this year, piggybacking off the dopamine décor and kitsch trends last year.
“A garden party is the perfect opportunity to embrace colour and creativity. Playful prints, vibrant florals, and unexpected combinations bring energy and joy to your tablescape.”, adds Lena.
She says a burst of colour creates an instant sense of fun, so look to mix pinks, oranges, and blues to create a lively and sun-drenched feel.
Floral drama is also a must, she shares, adding that statement blooms like tulips, peonies, or ranunculus make a striking contrast against neutral tableware.
“You can also look into pattern play, which adds personality. Try layering striped runners, checked napkins, and colour-blocked plates to give a curated but eclectic look.
Layered lighting is key for adding a warming glow into the evening. A combination of colourful and patterned candlesticks, draped fairy lights, and solar-powered bulbs add to the atmosphere.
Spring and summer are all about colour confidence, don’t be afraid to experiment with vibrant hues, contrasting patterns, and bold statement pieces. The key is to strike a balance between playfulness and elegance.”
3. Curvaceous Lines
Curves are dominating garden furniture this year, and curved details bring a sense of flow and movement to a tablescape. This tablescape style embraces organic curves for a look that feels contemporary and playful, according to Lena.
She suggests “Curved tableware adds instant elegance, and can be injected using oval platters, wavy glassware, and gently rounded plates to soften the overall aesthetic.
A sculptural centrepiece makes a striking focal point, such as a low, flowing floral arrangement or a statement ceramic vase with dried flowers that enhances the organic feel.”
4. Warm & Intimate
“We’re seeing a lot of love for fire pits this year, as people look to make their garden an extension of their home. In fact, fire pits are one of our best sellers this year.”, shares Lena.
For those who love hosting in the evening, a warm and intimate tablescape is all about creating a cosy atmosphere. Layers of texture, candlelight, and a central fire pit make for a truly inviting setting.
Lena suggests incorporating earthy tones and rich textures to set the mood, such as deep ochre, burnt sienna, or forest green table linens layered with linen napkins and ceramic plates.
“A fire pit as a centrepiece draws guests together, providing warmth while adding a natural focal point to the table. A fire pit does more than keep guests warm, it creates a natural gathering point where conversations can flow late into the night.”
If a fire pit isn’t feasible, she advises, “layered lighting can equally enhance the atmosphere. A mix of solar-powered bulb lights, lanterns, and flickering candles creates a glowing, golden ambiance.
Rustic details add character to this tablescape, so look to incorporate wooden chargers, vintage glassware, and dried floral arrangements to bring a homely, relaxed feel to the space.”
