DESIGN FILES
/ CITTA DESIGN FEDERICA CONTARDI /
While tradition brings with it a sense of comfort and belonging, come the festive season it’s easy to quickly run out of love for the tinsel and baubles of yesteryear. Thankfully, when it comes to setting the scene for a celebration, there are some simple ways to refresh your aesthetic. And it doesn’t mean starting from scratch. The stylist team at Città are experts when it comes to injecting some fresh, contemporary charm.
Città’s national visual merchandiser, Federica Contardi, says traditional tree alternatives are high on the trend radar this year, which is great news if vacuuming up pine needles isn’t high on your wishlist. “Our pared-back birch trees are very popular and are perfectly suited to minimalist and Scandi interiors,” she says, suggesting being selective with ornaments to really make a statement on these simplistic style ‘trees’.
When it comes to setting that all-important festive table, the Città team says the trick is to create a theme and the rest will flow. Some contemporary thematic options could include: white Christmas, gold glamour, rustic vintage or natural woodland. But the options are limitless. “You don’t need to adhere to the traditional Christmas colours of red, green and white. To try something new choose two or three ’hero’ colours that go well together, such as gold, yellow and white. Collect festive ornaments and baubles in these colours and complement with twinkling string lights and candles,” Federica suggests. And if you only buy one item to zhuzh up the table, the Città team recommend a statement centrepiece. “This should encompass your theme and be the focus of the table,” says Federica. “It could be a vase filled with pinecones or a large candle surrounded by a festive wreath.” While a few scented candles waround the home create a welcoming ambience if you’re hosting a soirée, when it comes to the table Federica says, “Opt for unscented, to avoid interfering with the flavours of the food.”
To create a sense of occasion, the Città team know it’s the little things that make a big difference. “Welcome guests with a glass of bubbles or a seasonal cocktail, and place a handwritten name tag at a table setting. To makes guests feel spoilt, you can also add a little present on each seat, such as some handmade chocolate to take home,” says Federica.
While it is impossible to pick just one favourite item for the festive table, the team did agree that linen napkins add a touch of relaxed luxury. “And they can be used again and again,” says Federica. “Our linen napkins and patterned tea towels can also be used as an alternative to gift wrap for encasing presents. Not only does it look beautiful and feel special, but it also reduces paper waste and doubles as a gift.” A very 2019 idea.