Setting the Table for November 18: Interior Designer's Tips
Darius Rimkus, head of interior design at IKEA, shares advice on setting a festive table at home for Latvia's national holiday, using natural materials, candles and subtle red-white-red accents.
As Latvians prepare for November 18, the national holiday, when many gather around the table with family and friends, Darius Rimkus, head of the interior design department at IKEA, has offered ideas for creating a warm, modern and distinctly Latvian festive table. He recommends aiming for naturalness, warmth, restrained elegance and hospitality.
The red-white-red accent
According to Rimkus, red or burgundy shades can appear in napkins, flowers or candles, combined with white dishes or a tablecloth, gold or matte brass accents and natural wood. He says the secret to an elegant look is layering: a white tablecloth or runner with dark red or brown textile napkins, white dishes, and cranberry or pomegranate touches. That way the colours of the national flag are noticeable but understated.
A festive table can also be set with everyday dishes, even from different collections. Symmetry, matching napkins, glasses or placemats, and coordinated candleholders and textiles help create a unified impression.
Lighting and natural motifs
Soft lighting and candles are important for the festive mood, especially in the dark autumn season. Instead of bright overhead light, the designer suggests placing candles of various heights in small groups around the table.
A table inspired by Latvian nature suits forest green, sand, earth, honey, amber and bronze tones, along with moss, lichen, conifer branches, cones and wood. Traditional Latvian sign patterns, ceramics, linen, wooden serving boards and stone strengthen the mood. Personal touches include handwritten place cards, an acorn or small piece of amber by the plate, words of thanks to guests or a quote from a Latvian poet, as well as a small gift such as a jar of honey or homemade cookies.
Easy ideas
- Forest composition: place a long wooden board in the centre of the table and arrange moss, cones, spruce or juniper branches and candles in glass holders on it.
- Light and colour: fill transparent vases or glasses with chestnuts, acorns, cones or amber-toned glass balls, adding LED string lights. Rimkus also suggests a glass vase with cranberries, a sprig of rosemary, water and floating candles.
- Autumn bounty: arrange apples, cranberries, heather and tall candles on a tray.
The main principle, according to Rimkus, is one expressive centrepiece rather than many small decorations.
