SET THE SCENE WITH A COASTAL-INSPIRED PALETTE
A considered festive colour scheme instantly makes a room feel more polished and put-together. Traditional reds and greens are always popular, but a bright and airy palette feels more in keeping with a warm Australian Christmas. Opt for soft, coastal-inspired colours, such as whites, sandy neutrals and muted greens, for a sophisticated festive feel that’ll stay relevant beyond the holiday season. And a touch of sparkle never goes amiss – gold or silver metallic accents instantly elevate the setting, creating an atmosphere that feels both festive and refined.
LAY THE FOUNDATIONS: CHOOSING THE PERFECT TABLE & LAYERING ESSENTIALS
Selecting the right table and foundational layers is key to creating a practical yet chic holiday dining setting. Depending on how many guests you’re hosting, start by choosing a table that’ll comfortably fit everyone around it. Coco Republic’s extension dining tables – from the Scandinavian-inspired Carmel to the outdoor Architect Table – can be effortlessly adjusted to accommodate guests, whether you’re hosting an intimate dinner or larger soirée. With the balmy Australian weather, a table that’s suited to both indoor and outdoor use is a versatile option, so you can easily shift your celebration indoors if need be.
Next, build texture and depth with a luxurious tablecloth or runner, choosing natural textures like linen and woven fibres that echo the Australian landscape. Add placemats, chargers and our travertine Chaya Coasters to create a rich, tactile look, and why not personalise your tablespace with name cards or small gifts for each guest? It’s a guaranteed way to make everyone feel welcome.
CREATE A STATEMENT HOLIDAY CENTREPIECE
No festive dining table is complete without a statement centrepiece. If you’re after a minimalist yet impactful option, seasonal greenery is your best friend. Ground your look in the Australian landscape with eucalyptus branches or native proteas, and incorporate natural touches like pinecones or even shells for added character. Coco Republic’s vases – like the glass Raven Vase or ceramic Omar Vase – are the perfect vessels for greenery, adding a refined, coastal vibe to your festive table setting. Keep the centrepiece low enough for easy conversation but make it striking – vary vase and candle holder heights for visual interest. If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option that’ll carry you through seasonal celebrations, opt for dried flowers or faux botanicals that stay fresh and require little upkeep.
SET THE MOOD WITH FESTIVE LIGHTING
From fairy lights to scented candles, it wouldn’t be the holidays without festive lighting. Thoughtfully placed, it instantly transforms a dining space, helping to create a magical atmosphere for guests to enjoy food and conversation. Indoors, dimmable or low-hanging pendant lights create a soft, ambient glow, while lanterns and fairy lights are ideal for outdoor celebrations – drape them around the garden or weave into your statement centrepiece for added pizzazz. Scented candles with festive fragrances, like pine, frankincense or cinnamon, add to the holiday ambience (especially if you have an artificial tree!). Intersperse them along the centre of the table or on windowsills and incorporate Coco Republic’s Natural Onyx or White Marble Candle Holder for an extra chic decorative touch.
With Coco Republic’s curated selection of high-quality furniture, decor and ambient lighting as your foundation, setting a festive dining table for a modern Australian Christmas is effortless. From natural textures to versatile furniture, every detail can help create a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s the perfect setting for those lasting holiday memories.
