Elevate Your Summer Gatherings with Beautiful Tableware
Discover stylish tableware and summer cocktails to enhance your gatherings. Elevate every occasion with perfect pairings of elegance and flavor!
Plus refreshing cocktails to complement your table!
Summer is the perfect time to gather with loved ones—enjoying long, warm evenings with good food, great company, and stylish tableware. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard get-together or a sophisticated dinner party, the right tableware can elevate the experience. Here’s a round-up of exquisite serveware from some of our favorite brands, paired with refreshing cocktails (and their mocktail counterparts) to enhance your summer soirées.
Sharland England
Porta
Porta, based in Brooklyn, NY, combines European home goods with an emphasis on local craftsmanship and independent artisans. Their collections celebrate the beauty of everyday moments, inspired by the founder's Italian heritage and European travels.
Porta
Tableware Highlights
From drinkware and dinnerware to serveware and linens, Porta offers a stunning collection of whimsical, handcrafted pieces that bring European elegance to your table. We particularly adore their Daria Dinner Plate Set, beautifully handcrafted in Portugal. Pair it with the matching Daria Pasta Bowls and Small Plates for a cohesive and charming table setting.
What to Serve?
Porta's tableware, inspired by Italian design, is perfect for adding a touch of fun to your summer gatherings. What better way to celebrate than with a classic Italian summer cocktail!
House & Garden
Aperol Spritz
Ingredients: Aperol, prosecco, club soda, and orange slice for garnish.
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Add 3 parts Prosecco and 2 parts Aperol.
3. Top with a splash of club soda.
4. Garnish with an orange slice.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Ingredients: Lyre’s Italian Non-alcoholic Spritz (or orange juice, grapefruit juice, and cherry juice), non-alcoholic champagne, club soda, orange slice for garnish
Instructions:
Same as above but swap the Aperol and prosecco for their non-alcoholic counterparts.
Ferm Living
Hailing from Copenhagen, Ferm Living merges Scandinavian design with global artisan techniques. Their focus on authentic, sustainable products creates serene, balanced environments.
Ferm Living
Table Highlights
While Ferm Living offers beautifully crafted items for every room in your home, their kitchenware stands out for creating a classic modern table setting. Their handblown Ripple Champagne Saucers, also available in frosted and smoked grey versions, are perfect for a sophisticated cocktail party. For more versatile drinkware, the Still Glasses are ideal for any cool beverage.
What to Serve?
A simple, crisp drink will look (and taste) right at home in their minimalist, modern drinkware.
Rachel Vanni; Spencer Richards
Bee’s Knees
Ingredients: Gin, lemon juice, honey syrup (equal parts honey and water), and a lemon twist for garnish.
Instructions:
Fill a shaker with ice.
Add 2 oz gin, 3/4 oz lemon juice, and 3/4 oz honey syrup.
Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a lemon twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Same as above but swap out the gin for a non-alcoholic gin or juniper syrup with sparkling water.
Elsie Green
Elsie Green
A small, family-run company in Northern California, Elsie Green specializes in sustainable, vintage home decor. Their hand-selected items and personal touch create a unique and heartfelt shopping experience.
Tableware Highlights
Elsie Green features a curated range of home goods for every room, but their kitchen items are perfect for adding a touch of French sophistication to your table. From vintage copper cookware to stoneware plates and antique silverware, their unique pieces bring character and charm to your home. To keep your drinks cool at your next gathering, we love their elegant vintage Silver Plated Champagne Bucket.
What to Serve?
A French-inspired kitchen deserves a modern French take on the European classic Spritz.
Bon Appetit
St Germain Spritz
Ingredients: St Germain elderflower liqueur, dry white wine, sparkling water, and a lemon twist for garnish.
Instructions:
1. Fill a wine glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz St Germain and 3 oz dry white wine.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Same as above but instead of St Germain go with elderflower syrup and opt for white grape juice over white wine.
Berner & Co.
Berner & Co.
Berner & Co. celebrates quality craftsmanship and the joy of collecting unique, hand-made pieces. Their curated collections from artisans worldwide bring color and story to your table.
Tableware Highlights
Their diverse collection of dinnerware includes flatware, tablecloths, glassware, and more. We love their Cosimo Coupes in pink and yellow for a lively cocktail experience. Pair these with their Ottoman Vase Placemats for a fun and cheerful table.
What to Serve?
Their vibrant and colorful pieces deserve a cocktail to match their energy.
Nico Schinco
Paloma
Ingredients: Tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, sparkling water, salt, and a grapefruit slice for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill the glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz tequila, 2 oz grapefruit juice, and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Garnish with a salt rim and grapefruit slice.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Same as above just substitute tequila for sparkling water.
Sharland England
Sharland England blends history and craftsmanship with a focus on sustainable, hand-made artisan pieces using time-honored traditions. Inspired by the aesthetic and history of the English countryside, their timeless designs bring luxury and warmth to any room.
Sharland England
Tableware Highlights
Sharland England's collection of tabletop pieces features unique, handcrafted items by artisans from around the world. Create a stunning tablescape by artfully layering colors and textures. Pair the Napa Tablecloth with the Honor Plates and Spiral Wine Glasses—each piece is designed to be mixed and matched for a stunning, eclectic look.
What to Serve?
Take a classic British drink and add a refreshing summer twist!
Dollop of Dough
Blueberry Gin & Tonic
Ingredients: Gin, blueberry syrup, lime juice, tonic water, blueberries, and a lime wedge for garnish.
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz gin, 1oz blueberry syrup, and ½ oz lime juice.
3. Top with tonic water.
4. Stir gently and garnish with fresh blueberries and a lime wedge.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Same as above but swap out the gin for a non-alcoholic gin or juniper syrup with sparkling water.
Cabana Collections
Blossom - Cabana Collection
Cabana is an Italian lifestyle brand that captures the intimate relationship between personal spaces and the objects within them. Their collections feature artisanal homeware, inspired by global travels, to bring an inviting warmth and unique charm to any setting.
Tableware Highlights
From linens, dinnerware, and glassware to serveware, Cabana has it all. Bring the Italian countryside into your home with their Blossom collection of ceramic serveware, inspired by a vintage plate the founder discovered in her grandmother’s kitchen cabinet.
What to Serve?
Looking for an alternative to the popular Italian Aperol spritz? Try its refreshing cousin.
Limoncello Spritz
Crowded Kitchen
Ingredients: Limoncello, prosecco, sparkling water, and a lemon wheel for garnish.
Instructions:
1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Add 2 oz limoncello and 3 oz Prosecco.
3. Top with sparkling water.
4. Garnish with a lemon wheel.
Non-Alcoholic Version
Same as above but swap the limoncello for lemon syrup and the prosecco for a non-alcoholic sparkling wine or even a lemon-flavored sparkling water.
Final Thoughts
Enhance your summer entertaining with these beautiful tableware selections and delightful cocktails. Each brand offers unique pieces that tell a story and add a touch of elegance to your gatherings. Cheers to a stylish and refreshing summer!
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
Make your home your favorite place to be.
KED’s Top 7 Outdoor Furniture Brands to Refresh Your Yard
We’ve rounded up the best outdoor furniture brands to elevate your exterior environments. Find stylish, high-quality, durable pieces perfect for summer living.
Discover the best in outdoor furnishings and accents
As summer approaches, it's the perfect time to enhance your outdoor spaces with stylish and functional furniture. To make your shopping experience seamless, we've curated our top seven outdoor furniture brands, each offering unique and high-quality pieces to elevate your patio, yard, or balcony. Discover the best options for your outdoor living spaces below.
CB2
1. Ethimo
Inspired by the Mediterranean, Ethimo blends natural beauty and sophisticated craftsmanship to create timeless outdoor furniture. Their collections feature a harmonious mix of teak and premium fabrics, perfect for any setting—be it seaside, poolside, or countryside. Ethimo’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of FSC-certified wood, ensuring eco-friendly elegance. From lounge beds and sofas to lighting and outdoor accents, Ethimo offers a versatile range of products to personalize your exterior living spaces with a touch of Italian charm.
Ethimo
2. Brown Jordan
Pioneers of luxury outdoor furniture, Brown Jordan is known for its quality and innovation. Their designs combine modern aesthetics with durable materials like lightweight aluminum and Suncloth fabric, ensuring longevity and style. Each piece, crafted with meticulous attention to detail, promises comfort and luxury. With a comprehensive range including seating, tables, and accessories, Brown Jordan provides everything needed for a timeless outdoor living experience.
Brown Jordan
3. CB2
CB2, a sibling brand of Crate and Barrel, offers minimalist and modern furniture at an accessible price point. Known for their quick delivery and reliable quality, CB2’s outdoor collection includes lounge furniture, coffee tables, ottomans, and more. Their pieces are ideal for those looking to add contemporary style to their outdoor spaces without breaking the bank.
CB2
4. Four Hands
Four Hands draws inspiration from diverse eras and design movements to create unique, trend-proof outdoor furniture. Their commitment to quality is reflected in the careful selection of materials and the innovative designs that cater to modern needs. Four Hands’ outdoor collection features a blend of intriguing textures and shapes, making their pieces both functional and beautiful—perfect for creating inviting and livable outdoor environments.
Four Hands is only available at select retailers and to trade professionals. If you love the look of their collections we’d be happy to help you source them for your home!
Four Hands
5. Fermob
Fermob crafts vibrant and sustainable outdoor furniture. Known for its cheerful colors and modern designs, Fermob's pieces bring life to outdoor spaces of all sizes. Their commitment to environmental sustainability is woven into every aspect of their manufacturing process. Fermob’s range of products includes seating, tables, and accessories.
To illuminate your outdoor environments, we particularly love their lighting. Fermob makes it easy to create an outdoor space that is both beautiful and eco-friendly.
Fermob
6. Napa Home& Garden
Napa Home & Garden specializes in elegant outdoor accessories. Their curated selection includes planters, candleholders, and botanical decorations, all artisan-made. Their products are designed to enhance the beauty of any outdoor area, from the front entry to the back garden, adding a contemporary and refined touch to your decor.
Napa Home & Garden
7. Soho Home
Inspired by the Soho Houses around the world, Soho Home offers a collection designed for elevated outdoor living and entertaining. Their range includes outdoor seating, tables, sun loungers, and accessories. To add some shade to your patio, deck, or pool area, we love their vintage-inspired Tuuci Octagonal Parasol.
Soho Home’s pieces reflect the chic and comfortable style of their renowned clubs, bringing a touch of sophisticated leisure to your outdoor spaces.
Need help designing your outdoor spaces?
Feeling inspired by these exceptional brands but need assistance creating your perfect outdoor oasis? Don’t hesitate to reach out! From the initial consultation to crafting a custom design plan tailored to your needs and executing it flawlessly, we handle every detail. Let us transform your outdoor space into a functional and stylish retreat.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
Make your home your favorite place to be.
Bring Hotel Chic Home: Design Inspiration From 5 Stunning Destinations
Uncover Design Tricks From the World's Top Luxury Hotels
Uncover design tricks from the world's top luxury hotels
When searching for home design inspiration, you may start by scrolling through social media feeds or flipping through design magazines. However, as seasoned interior designers, we've learned that the most captivating ideas often lie outside the ordinary.
In this blog post, we're exploring hospitality design. We've handpicked five exceptional hotels from diverse corners of the globe, each offering a unique and mesmerizing aesthetic. From the vibrant streets of Paris to the tranquil landscapes of Mexico, these hotels serve as a treasure trove of design inspiration.
Each hotel has a distinct narrative, weaving together elements of history, culture, and creativity to create unforgettable experiences for their guests. By drawing inspiration from these diverse destinations, you can infuse your home with a sense of adventure and sophistication, transforming it into a personalized sanctuary that reflects your style and taste.
From bold color palettes to timeless architectural features, we’re diving into their captivating designs and showing you how to translate them into your home. Keep reading to see which breathtaking destinations made the list!
Hotel de la Boetie, Paris
1. Hôtel de la Boétie, Paris
The vibrant and whimsical design of Hôtel de la Boétie in Paris's fashionable 8th arrondissement offers a playful yet sophisticated ambiance. Rather than a traditional hotel it feels like a chic Parisian pied-à-terre. Designed by Beata Heuman, it's infused with reinterpretations of historical motifs and brims with vibrant, contemporary flair, creating a unique experience.
Get the Look: Embrace Bold Color Blocking
To capture the vibrant atmosphere of Hôtel de la Boétie, embrace bold hues like reds, greens, pinks, or blues to create a modern art-inspired aesthetic. Use pattern sparingly and focus on a solid color-blocking technique to replicate Heuman’s style. Avoid color overload by balancing rich tones with simpler materials and textures, like neutral-toned furniture or minimalist décor accessories. By juxtaposing vibrant colors with understated elements, you can create a dynamic yet harmonious space reminiscent of a stylish Parisian escape.
Proper Hotel, Downtown LA
2. Proper Hotel, Downtown LA
Kelly Wearstler's reimagining of a historic Downtown LA landmark seamlessly blends vintage charm with fresh design. The Downtown LA Proper boasts an eclectic mix of custom furnishings, complemented by handcrafted textiles and a stunning array of tiles. Every corner is meticulously adorned with attention to detail, transforming the space into a veritable treasure trove of design elements that pay homage to the building's heritage. Drawing inspiration from Spanish missions, Moroccan architecture, and Mexican Modernist art, the design reflects the cultural richness of the City of Angels.
Get the Look: Mix Pattern-On-Pattern
Kelly Wearstler is the queen of flawlessly blending patterns! Channel her signature style by embracing pattern-on-pattern design in your home. Begin by selecting a focal pattern, such as a bold rug or statement wallpaper, to serve as the foundation for your décor scheme. Then, layer complementary patterns of varying scales, such as geometric prints or floral motifs, through upholstery, drapery, or accent cushions. To maintain cohesion, stick to a limited color palette that everything together. Finally, incorporate solid elements, like sleek furniture or textured fabrics, to provide balance and visual interest.
Aman Venice
3. Aman Venice
Nestled within a historic palazzo on the Grand Canal, Aman Venice marries old-world opulence with modern sophistication. Designer Jean Michel Gathy juxtaposes rococo artwork with modern elegance furnishings and accents creating a captivating ambiance. The guest rooms showcase Italian masterpieces by renowned artists like Sansovino and Tiepolo. Contemporary furnishings harmonize with authentic silk wall coverings, chandeliers, wood paneling, chinoiserie, and painted ceilings, creating a seamless blend of history and modernity.
Get the Look: Blend Old and New
Capture the timeless elegance of Aman Venice by infusing old-world aesthetics with a modern sensibility. Embrace traditional architectural elements, like crown molding or wainscoting, to add character to your home. Opt for rich jewel-tone colors and opulent textures, think velvet upholstery, or elegant wallpaper, to evoke a sense of luxury. Incorporate a striking focal point like an antique fireplace, chandelier, or artwork. Pair these traditional elements with sleek and streamlined furniture pieces to create a harmonious fusion of past and present.
Hacienda de San Antonio, Mexico
4. Hacienda de San Antonio, Mexico
Set amid the natural beauty of a Mexican coffee plantation, Hacienda de San Antonio embraces traditional Mexican design with a luxurious twist. Designed by Alix Marcaccini and Armand Aubery, each room exudes a distinct charm, adorned with hand-made wool carpets from Oaxaca and European textiles. The grandeur of the space is accentuated by high ceilings and expansive French windows that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor living. Cozy overstuffed sofas and wood-burning fireplaces add warmth and comfort, creating an inviting sanctuary.
Get the Look: Integrate Classic Mexican Elements
Embrace the rustic elegance of Hacienda de San Antonio by infusing your home with traditional Mexican influences. Incorporate handmade textiles, such as rugs or embroidered fabrics, to add warmth and texture to your space. Consider including rustic wood accents, like exposed beams or carved furniture, to evoke the charm of a Mexican hacienda. Bring the outdoors in with lush greenery, like potted plants or botanical-inspired artwork, to create a serene and inviting atmosphere.
L’Hotel Marrakech
5. L’Hôtel Marrakech
Stepping into L’Hôtel Marrakech feels like entering a bygone era of sophistication, reminiscent of the elegance of 1930s hotels. Originally part of a Caidal palace dating back to the 19th century, this historic Riad, owned by Jasper Conran, blends Moroccan craftsmanship with beautiful antiques and art from his collection. This meticulous attention to detail creates an ambiance that feels more like a refined home than a traditional hotel.
Get the Look: Capture the Essence of Morocco
To create a tranquil oasis inspired by L’Hôtel Marrakech, keep a neutral foundation and incorporate traditional Moroccan accents. Paint your walls in soft, neutral tones, such as white or beige, to create a sense of calm and serenity. Then, layer in pops of color and texture through Moroccan-inspired rugs, textiles, and decorative accessories. Look for intricately patterned rugs, embroidered cushions, and mosaic tiles to add visual interest and depth to your space. Finally, incorporate antique furnishings and artwork to capture the timeless allure of Marrakech's historic riads.
Hotel Proper, Downtown LA
Transform Your Home Into a Stylish Sanctuary
By drawing inspiration from these exquisite hotels, you can elevate your home's design to new heights. Whether you're drawn to the vibrant energy of Paris, the timeless elegance of Venice, or the exotic allure of Marrakech, there's a design aesthetic to suit every taste.
If you’re feeling inspired by these ideas but want professional guidance, we're here to help! Kristen Elizabeth Design is a full-service luxury interior design firm, based in Sacramento, serving Northern California and beyond.
Our team is dedicated to bringing your vision to life and overseeing all the intricacies involved in home design. From crafting a meticulously thought-out plan to seamlessly guiding you through the execution process, we handle every detail along the way, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
Make your home your favorite place to be.
Design Week in Mexico City: A Spotlight on Kristen’s Favorite Artists
Explore Kristen's journey into Mexico City’s vibrant art and design scene, highlighting her favorite emerging artists and studios.
From Zona Maco and Studio Esrawe to Everything in Between!
This past February Kristen ventured to Mexico City for a design retreat—a journey filled with artistic inspiration, cultural immersion, and creative insights. Through exclusive access to renowned studios and exhibitions, she dove into the vibrant world of emerging art and design.
This month on the blog, we’re sharing highlights from Kristen’s enriching experience during design week in Mexico City!
Designed by Hector Esrawe
Dunes Design Retreat:
A Gateway to Inspiration
Kristen's design voyage was hosted by Dunes Design, an exclusive retreat tailored for discerning designers seeking to unravel the essence of Mexican creativity. Set against the backdrop of Zona Maco, the world's leading Latin-American art fair, the retreat offered a unique opportunity to engage with the pulsating energy of contemporary art and design. From intimate studio visits to curated exhibitions, Kristen delved into the heart of Mexico's design scene, forging connections with visionary creators and gaining fresh perspectives on the intersection of culture, heritage, and innovation.
Below we’re covering special highlights from her journey! Keep reading to learn all about it.
Design by Hector Esrawe
Hector Esrawe
At the forefront of Kristen's itinerary was a rendezvous with Hector Esrawe, the visionary force behind Esrawe Studio. Nestled within Mexico City's bustling streets, Esrawe Studio stands as a beacon of design innovation, seamlessly blending architecture, interior design, and product development.
Kristen was enthralled by Esrawe's holistic approach to design, rooted in a deep understanding of the human experience and spatial dynamics. From the conceptualization of bespoke furniture pieces to the olfactory symphonies of fragrance development, Hector's studio embodies a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Kristen had the privilege of touring his design firm, gaining insights into his creative process and sources of inspiration before heading to his studio where she explored the showroom and learned about the intricacies of his fragrance development.
It was truly a pleasure to peel back the curtain and gain a behind-the-scenes glimpse into his work and creative process. We’re hopeful for an opportunity to collaborate with him on a future project!
2. Ente Arte Objecto
One of the exhibitor highlights at Zona Maco was Ente Arte Objecto—where nature's raw beauty converges with artistic expression. Founded by Carmen Castillo, Ente Arte Objecto is a testament to the transformative power of stone, sculpted into functional art pieces that transcend conventional boundaries. From tables to organizational objects and accents, each piece meticulously crafted from exquisite stone, is a stunning blend of artistry and functionality.
Designed by Charabati Bizzari Ceramica
3. Charabati Bizzari Ceramica
Charabati Bizzari Ceramica was another exhibitor at Zona Maco that caught Kristen’s eye. Led by Raquel Charabati and Monica Bizzarri, this artisanal duo has redefined the boundaries of craftsmanship, transforming clay into breathtaking wall installations that blur the lines between tradition and innovation.
Kristen marveled at the meticulous precision and technical prowess displayed in each ceramic masterpiece, a testament to the enduring legacy of artisanal heritage fused with contemporary sensibilities.
Every artwork is one of a kind—crafted from thousands of carefully hand-formed and painted ceramic pieces. The result is a multi-dimensional sensory journey that enriches the ambiance of both interior and exterior spaces.
Final Thoughts
Kristen's design week in Mexico City was a transformative experience, punctuated by moments of awe, inspiration, and profound discovery. From the bustling exhibitor booths at Zona Maco to the innovative sanctuary of Esrawe Studio each encounter unveiled a new facet of Mexico's rich cultural mosaic.
As Kristen returned home, her heart brimming with creative fervor and her mind ablaze with newfound insights, she carried with her the enduring legacy of Mexican artistry and craftsmanship—a testament to the transcendent power of design to inspire, uplift, and transform lives.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.
Make your home your favorite place to be.
Feeling inspired to embark on a design journey with us?
Your project is unique. That’s why our services are designed to meet an array of needs. Learn more about our bespoke offerings
Our Work
stay in touch
〰️
stay in touch 〰️