Interior designer offers tips for a Latvian-style table on Independence Day
Darius Rimkus, head of interior design at IKEA, shares ideas for setting a home table for Latvia's 18 November national holiday, using red-white-red accents and nature motifs.
November is when Latvia celebrates its national holiday, and many people mark it at a festive table with family and friends. For those who want a distinctly Latvian atmosphere at home, advice comes from Darius Rimkus, head of the interior design department at IKEA. He recommends aiming for a natural feel, warmth, understated elegance and hospitality.
Red-white-red without loud colours
Rimkus says red or burgundy can appear in napkins, flowers or candles, while plates or the tablecloth work best in white. Gold or matte brass accents and wooden elements can complete the look. In his view, the secret is layering: a white tablecloth or runner combined with dark red or brown textile napkins, white dishes and cranberry or pomegranate touches. The national colours are then noticeable but remain discreet.
A festive setting can also be made from everyday dishes, even from different collections. A few repeating elements help create unity: symmetry, matching napkins, glasses and placemats, and candleholders and textiles that go together.
Lighting and natural motifs
One of the key elements is warm, soft lighting and candles, especially in the dark autumn season. Instead of bright main lighting, he suggests placing candles of different heights in small groups around the table.
A setting inspired by Latvian nature suits forest green, sand, earth, honey, amber and bronze shades, along with moss, lichen, conifer branches, cones and wood. The mood can be strengthened with traditional Latvian pattern motifs, ceramics, linen, wooden serving boards and stone. Personal touches include handwritten place cards, an acorn or a small piece of amber by the plate, words of thanks, a quote from a Latvian poet, or a small gift such as a jar of honey or home-baked cookies.
Simple ideas for home
- Forest composition. On a long wooden board in the centre of the table, arrange moss, cones, spruce or juniper branches and candles in glass holders.
- Light and colour. Fill transparent vases or glasses with chestnuts, acorns, cones or glass baubles, and add LED string lights. Rimkus also suggests a glass vase with cranberries, a sprig of rosemary, water and floating candles.
- Autumn harvest. On a tray, place apples, cranberries, heather and tall candles.
The main principle, according to the designer, is one expressive central decoration rather than many small ones.
