How to Achieve Calm in Your Home and Have Fun Along the Way: Neutral Backdrops and Memorable Tablescapes

I am naturally drawn to creating serene environments to surround myself with. Over time and through self-discovery, I’ve embraced that my own nervous system naturally appreciates and gravitates towards neutrals. I find that they have a calming, quieting effect on my senses in a world where so many different things compete for attention.

While I find that it feels restorative to live in calm environments, there also exists a part of me that loves to incorporate the option to easily bring in an unexpected playful energy.  When that playful energy doesn’t have to compete with an already busy environment, it allows the space for it to be showcased and appreciated.

In my design work, I strive to make spaces versatile for my clients;

a calm restorative canvas with room to introduce special personal touches.

In my own home, I achieve balance by incorporating colors and patterns. One of my favorite places to interact with this type of fun energy is a beautifully and intentionally designed table scape.

My personal favorite vintage floral dishware to incorporate into a special display setting is American handpainted Stangl Pottery. I inherited my grandmother’s Thistle collection, so it has deep personal significance to me. Although it has been discontinued and Stangl has ceased operations, the collections are still widely available in a variety of patterns at second hand stores. Stangl Pottery can be mixed and matched, or you can focus on a specific pattern or collection that resonates with you and your home's style. The limited color palette of the Thistle pattern makes it usable throughout the year, and brings a pop of color to the table when fresh florals are not available. Someone looking for an even more playful pattern would love the Stangle Blueberry collection; the dinner plates from this collection have a bright yellow frame around the front side of the plate, and a sweet hand painted blueberry in the center.

It is important to note that Stangl Pottery is no longer considered “food safe” by modern safety standards. For this reason, I recommend that you only use it for display purposes and not for dining.

In my home, the ablity to incorporate these sentimental patterns and colors on a complimentary neutral backdrop keeps us feeling balanced. As you consider your own home, I encourage you to think about the specific elements that make you feel restored, calm, and happy and how you might incorporate them into your design.

Would you like to have a conversation about how Kate Kelly Interiors can help you create your own restorative sense of home?

Email sales@katekellyinteriors.com.