As we approach the festive season, I always find myself spending more time in the heart of the home, the dining space. It’s where we gather, reconnect and slow down, and I love nothing more than creating a table that feels intentional, elegant and quietly inviting. For me, elevating a dining table is about layering craftsmanship, texture and beautiful lighting to create a setting that feels as special on an everyday evening as it does during festive celebrations.
![[Carter Dining Table]](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0791/5018/6811/files/Christmas_Gift_Guide_2025_482c93bf-a42b-4966-a159-74427eda0204.png?v=1765363472)
I start with the foundation itself, the dining table, as this sets the tone for everything that follows. I’m always drawn to pieces that feel sculptural yet timeless, such as our Carter Dining Table. With its clustered pedestal legs and brass detailing, it’s such a striking anchor for a room. For a more classical feel, the Wolseley Dining Table offers a beautiful starburst veneer and antique brass trim and it has a wonderful presence for more formal entertaining.
Carter Dining Table
Wolseley Dining TableComfort and balance are essential when choosing seating, especially when I’m hosting longer dinners. I love pairing the Carter or Wolseley table with the Rowan Dining Chair, with its upholstered seat and curved silhouette bringing softness to the strong architectural lines of the tables. Keeping the palette to warm neutrals helps ground the space and creates a calming, cohesive backdrop for the layering that comes later.
Rowan Dining Chair
Rowan Dining ChairWhen it comes to dressing the table itself, I always prefer understated elegance over anything overly seasonal. Layering soft linens, tactile serveware and well-chosen accessories transform a table without overwhelming it. I often style with pieces such as our Elemental Placemats and the Lyndon Candelabra from our accessories collection, adding marble trays, ceramic serving bowls and subtle metallic touches, all of which add depth, texture and a sense of quiet luxury.
LynLighting is, for me, the most transformative element in a dining room. A statement pendant, for instance the LHL Kingston Pendant or cluster of pendants positioned low over the table creates a warm, intimate pool of light that instantly elevates the mood. I love how overhead lighting acts almost like the jewellery of the room, highlighting the centre of the table and drawing people in. I always balance this with candlelight for an added layer of softness and movement.
As we move towards the festive period, I love to introduce subtle seasonal elements rather than anything overly decorative. Low winter greenery, soft berries, pomegranates or a lightly brushed metallic accent sit beautifully alongside neutrals and natural textures. These quiet touches bring a sense of occasion without overpowering the calm, refined palette.
Elevating a dining table isn’t about grand gestures, it’s about layering thoughtful choices that make people feel welcome. With beautifully crafted pieces, I can create a setting that feels warm, elegant and ready for any gathering, from cosy weeknight suppers to festive celebrations with loved ones.
