ALL SET FOR A NEW LOOK

Freshen up the most used room in the house with lively plates and cups, and don’t shy away from clashing colours

Do you ever get the urge to swap out all your dishes? I feel that way at the moment. I probably won’t get rid of them all (they have more life left in them!) but I’m definitely window shopping for a new look.

Considering we use them multiple times every day, it’s no wonder dishes can feel tired and dull — especially when you spy a cute set of dishes that would make your kitchen or dining room feel a bit more lively.

That’s why if you have a bit of extra space in your dining room armoire or in the kitchen presses, you might keep your eye out for a second set of dishes.

If you don’t have room for another full set, you could spice things up a little with an occasional serving platter or roasting dish.

A single new dish in a new colour or pattern can give fresh life to an old set of dishes when the table is set.

Mixing and matching different patterns and colours isn’t a new trick, but it can be a good way to keep your dish set from getting boring. You could try mixing in a handful of different colours or a sassy new pattern and add a few new options whenever you see another you like.

Finally, displaying any new dishes around your kitchen can give you a boost even when you’re not using them to set the table.

Displaying dishes on open shelves allows you to enjoy them (Dunelm)

Left: If you can swing it, a few different sets of dishes gives you flexibility when you set the table (Dunelm)

Hanging pots and setting out platters will brighten your kitchen (Harvey Norman)

Right: Choose a colour scheme and stick to it — albeit loosely (Wilko)

Above: Oven to table dishes make for delightful decor (Oliver Bonas)

Bringing colours from the walls onto the table makes them pop (Habitat)