Once summer sets in, the heart of the home takes a tour as many of us create summery treats and tablescapes on the patio or in the holiday home garden. But which all-but-obvious table setting options hold a candle to the lusciousness of mouth-watering summer produce? See our choices combining Scandinavian simplicity with Japanese-inspired style.
Bright and breezy colors
Still or spumante? Served in these glasses, either goes! A summery drink or delightful dessert all set to be devoured with a spoon tastes all the better in thoughtfully chosen tableware. Made of durable borosilicate glass, the Tint glassware is a prime example of HAY's playful edge and simply perfect for fun, mix-and-match tablescapes this summer.
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Faultless design for food lovers
No matter whether cravings call for white fish fillets or vegetarian patties, Iittala's Tools frying pan nails practicality and minimalist looks on those scorching hot or wringing wet summer days when barbecuing is put on hold. The ovenproof pan is anything but out of place in summer table settings – and we have Swedish designer Björn Dahlström to thank for that.
Pssst! Take a look at our set of sun-soaked recipes that help turn tradition on its head this summer solstice, with the likes of a scrummy Midsummer salad and vegan skagen spread.
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• All food recipes and stories >
Pretty as a peach
Now here is something sure to catch every guest's attention! Even scrummier than a seasoned home pastry chef's pièce de résistance, the treat in question is the TY Palace plate by Japanese designer Teruhiro Yanagihara. Made using a traditional technique native to the town of Arita, the porcelain plate's undulating surface is a tactile treasure.
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A tea connoisseur's best-kept secret
Calendula, lemon verbena or perhaps nettle – which infusion is the Sand Secrets tea pot keeping under wraps? Lift the lid and let the aromas do the talking! When creating the range, a sense of mystery inspired Carina Seth Andersson, who is known for designing Marimekko's vases. The collection's gorgeously curved plate is the finishing touch for summery teatime tablescapes fit for even the most uncompromising aesthete.
Pssst! If your know-how about aromatic herbs has room for improvement, might we suggest the brand-new book Living with Herbs, full of tips on growing and using herbs.
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Summer cottage vibes for city dwellers
A rug splayed on the table... you heard us right! Maija Louekari's relaxed Räsymatto, Finnish for rag rug, pattern adorns this adorable cup designed by Sami Ruotsalainen. Emanating a cozy cottage feel, the Siirtolapuutarha tea cup's clean lines are nothing short of exquisite, especially when placed next to a Japanese-style counterpart. Marimekko's popular Oiva range is also available in the classic Unikko pattern that is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, making it a particularly esteemed guest in the summer table.
Dining staple or objet d'art?
While bolts and nuts may feel more apt to maintaining the lawn mower than enjoying a summer feast, they are surprisingly uplifting elements at the dining table. Inspired by the rugged aesthetics of traditional tools, Alessi's cutlery set is the work of world-renowned late designer Virgil Abloh, who undoubtedly made his mark in the world of fashion.
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Add finesse with Finnish folklore
Details, details, details! When the tableware is all sorted, the summer table only lacks finishing touches. The Midsummer Dream vase is Finnish design duo COMPANY's fresh spin on a Finnish tradition. It is said that by collecting seven wildflowers and sleeping with them underneath the pillow on Midsummer night, one might see their future spouse in a dream. Take it from us – placing the prettiest meadow flowers in this cheery Artek vase feels equally magical.
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Flood summer fêtes with light
Even though the sun barely seems to set in the summer, especially in the northernmost parts of Finland, sometimes extra light is essential. Designed by Verner Panton in the late 1960s, the iconic Flowerpot lamp's portable version travels with grace from the dining table to the nightstand – and even to the patio, as long as you transport this chum to safety when surprised by summer showers.
Member benefit
Gather your friends and set the table for summer! In June, our members enjoy up to 30% off kitchen essentials and selected tableware – also perfect for gifting. The offer is valid for new orders until 1 July 2024, applies to products marked with a campaign tag, and cannot be combined with other promotions. Please note that to claim the offer, you need to be a member of our customer loyalty program and logged in.
See also:
• Friends of Nordic Happiness loyalty program >
• All products for the outdoor kitchen >
Text: Eero Nurmi Images: Juho Huttunen and manufacturers