TABLE TALK

Southampton tablescape

Give me a big coffee table; the bigger the better. No diminutive or delicate little table me.  I love a table that's substantial, with the weight and presence to anchor a room in style and large enough to house my favorite books and trip mementos. For many, styling a coffee table can be a daunting task, but there's a simple formula that can help you get started:

Interesting Books+ Colorful Flowers + Decorative Objects= Beautiful and Inspiring Tablescape!

In Southampton I found a linen covered  Springer style table at Homenature in town. The glass top and delicate linen finish lighten up the table's form and leaves me considerable room to display some favorite objects; a collection of seashells from a trip to the Caribbean and an antique looking glass from London's Portobello Road. A delicate yellow orchid gives the table height and color.

 New York tablescape

In the city, my coffee table is a weighty Ralph Lauren Chinoiserie inspired table in a deep mahogany finish. The coffee table serves as a central meeting place for the family; great for eating a meal of take- out Thai and home to an expanding collection of favorite design books. A lucky stone Buddah sculpture and giant shell from a trip to Santorini bring interest and character to the dark table and a casual vase of tulips is a welcome splash of color.

Now you've had a chance to see my tables, so tell me, what do you like to put on your coffee table?