The holiday season is a time for gathering, where shared meals and quality moments with loved ones create lasting memories. It’s also the ideal occasion to introduce creativity into your table setting, crafting an environment that feels warm and welcoming.
We visited three unique tablescapes and invited their creators to share their personal approach to holiday table settings. Each story reveals how they infuse cultural influences and meaningful personal touches into their decor, adding layers of depth and significance to their festive gatherings.
Imogen Kwok
@ imogenkwok
We gather around the table with Imogen Kwok, a London-based chef and creative director reshaping the culinary arts. Known for seamlessly blending food and design, her work transforms dining into a sculptural experience through textured layers, and precise geometric arrangements. From her sunlit home in London, she walks us through a cheerful holiday lunch, complete with artful apertivo plates and fresh blossoms.
Which colours or textures do you gravitate towards when creating a festive tablescape?
I like to balance neutrals with a pop of colour, as seen here with the Tumble Plates and Ripple Collection. The pink tulips stand out beautifully against the silver and glass, offering a fresh alternative to traditional red and gold. Everything is cool-toned – from the decor to the dishes, creating a cohesive look. I’m mindful of materials, pairing the transparency of glass with matte elements, and I love a “perfectly imperfect” arrangement, finding harmony in asymmetry.
What do the holidays mean to you when it comes to gathering around the table?
Growing up, I’d fly to Sydney each Christmas to celebrate with my large extended family, filling the house with laughter and conversation. Now, I recreate that warmth with friends, spreading the celebration throughout the house. After a meal, I love the comfort of people staying, watching a movie, or lingering in the living room with drinks and chocolates.
What are some small details that can elevate a festive table?
I’m known for my minimal style, even during the holidays. There’s elegance in simplicity, with thoughtful details that show care. I set out small aperitivo plates in advance—pâté, cheeses, olives—so guests can nibble as they arrive, stress-free. Keeping the wine flowing with tall Ripple Water Jugs adds a special touch. Adding garnishes like flower petals or herbs makes each dish feel festive and thoughtfully prepared.
Which three words would you use to describe your ideal holiday table?
Elegant, timeless and textural.
What is your favourite ferm LIVING tableware piece, and how do you use it to make a statement at your holiday gatherings?
I adore the smoky grey Ripple Tall Glasses. They’re versatile—not just for drinks but also as small flower vases. Their height is perfect, adding sophistication without blocking the view across the table. They’re stylish for any setting, from lunch to dinner, and I even use them on my bedside table for a small arrangement or a tall cocktail.
Did you get a chance to explore our
other ‘Set the Table’ guides?
