Table Decoration

Union Ceramica

Table Decoration with Ceramic and Mediterranean Style

Simple ideas for creating a more considered table with ceramic plates, stoneware, porcelain, napkins, centrepieces and natural colours.

Where to start

An elegant table does not need to be complicated. Start with a few coordinated elements: plates, napkins, glasses, cutlery and a simple centrepiece.

Plates

Plates are the visual base of the table. Choose colours and materials that match your home style.

See dinnerware sets

Textiles

Napkins, runners and tablecloths can change the mood of the table without buying a new dinnerware set.

Read Table Styling

Centrepieces

A ceramic bowl, a small vase or a natural detail is enough to give the table more order.

See all guides

Quick table decoration ideas

Style	Recommended plates	Colours	Accessories
Mediterranean	Ceramic, light stoneware or decorated plates	White, beige, terracotta, blue, olive green	Linen, olives, bowls, jugs, low vases
Minimal elegant	White porcelain or neutral ceramic	White, cream, warm grey, sand	Clear glasses, simple cutlery, light napkins
Modern rustic	Matt stoneware or textured ceramic	Taupe, brown, cream, sage green	Wood, natural runner, deep bowls
Informal colourful	Decorated plates or coloured ceramic	Yellow, blue, brick red, green	Plain napkins and a simple centrepiece

How to match plates and napkins

White or neutral plates

You can use coloured napkins, a linen runner or a more decorative centrepiece.

Coloured plates

Use simple napkins and calmer colours to avoid making the table feel too busy.

Decorated plates

Repeat one colour from the decoration in the napkins, glasses or small accessories.

Matt stoneware plates

Match them with natural textiles, wood and warm colours for a more welcoming table.

Centrepieces: simple is better

A centrepiece should decorate the table without getting in the way. Avoid pieces that are too tall if they block conversation or take too much space.

Ceramic bowlGreat for fruit, bread, citrus fruit or small natural elements.

Low vaseWorks well with small flowers, green branches or herbs.

Simple candleGood for evening meals, but keep it away from napkins and light decorations.

Natural runnerHelps connect plates, cutlery and the centrepiece without covering the whole table.

Mediterranean table: key elements

Mediterranean style works very well with ceramics because it brings together warm colours, natural materials and simple shapes.

• Use light ceramic plates, warm stoneware or simple porcelain.
• Add linen, cotton or natural fabrics.
• Choose colours such as terracotta, sand, cream, blue and olive green.
• Use olives, citrus fruit, herbs or small bowls as details.
• Avoid too many different colours on the same table.
• Leave space between place settings for a cleaner look.

Common table decoration mistakes

Too many coloursChoose 2 or 3 main colours and repeat them consistently.

A centrepiece that is too tallIt can block conversation and make the table less practical.

Plates and tablecloth competingIf the plates are decorated, use a simpler base.

Impractical accessoriesThe table should look good, but it should also be comfortable for eating.

Recommended guides

Table Styling

Learn how to coordinate colours, materials, napkins and accessories.

Read Table Styling

Dinnerware sets

Compare real sets that can work as the base for a more considered table.

See the sets

Materials

Understand which material works best with your table style.

Read Materials

FAQ

How can I decorate an elegant table without spending too much?

Use a neutral dinnerware set, well-chosen napkins and a simple centrepiece. Changing textiles and small accessories is often enough.

Which colours work well with ceramic?

Cream, beige, terracotta, olive green, blue and white work very well with ceramic and stoneware.

Are white plates or decorated plates better?

White plates are more versatile. Decorated plates add more character, but they need simpler accessories.

What centrepiece should I use with ceramic plates?

A ceramic bowl, a low vase or a natural runner are simple options that are easy to match.

How do I create a Mediterranean table?

Use warm colours, linen, ceramic, natural details and a few well-coordinated elements.

Create a more considered table

Start with the right plates, then add colours, textiles and simple details.

Table StylingDinnerware setsMaterials