This year saw the rise of table skirts in our modern homes, but the unexpected trend shows no signs of wavering, thanks to Rose Uniacke. The interior expert and antique dealer is famed for designing homes for the Beckhams and Jo Malone, but now she is making waves in the literary world, following the launch of her book Rose Uniacke at Home.
In her book, Rose shares a host of modern decorating ideas, but none are quite so unusual as her response to table dressing. But can she convince you to follow this Medieval trend? In Rose Uniacke at Home, she reveals why you should get involved.
The multifunctionality of tablecloths
While a tablecloth is celebrated for its ornate dressing qualities, Rose suggests there is more to this modern dining room idea than what meets the eye. The designer suggests that, while you can use it to add a sense of regency to your room, it also serves as a discreet curtain for whatever you want to hide enough. She uses the example of an ‘inexpensive table,’ suggesting that you can instantly conceal whatever you desire.
Similarly, while you can use a tablecloth to hide the legs of a table, you similarly use the space to conceal other items you might want to keep out of sight, especially when guests arrive at your door.
However, the power of this interior design trend doesn’t end there. Designer Matthew Williamson further emphasizes Rose’s styling tips, offering another way to bring the timeless design feature in a contemporary space.
‘I love to take a personal approach to lay the table, starting with a tablecloth. I think there is something so special about having a textile to sit at,’ Matthew says. He explains that a tablecloth has the power to ‘soften the physical experience’ while providing ‘a platform for color and pattern, upon which you can clash your flatware and glassware.’
Yes, alongside standing as a secret storage space, your tablecloth will elevate your table setting ideas just in time for party season.
And if you’re looking to crown your table without following interior design rules, you have Rose’s approval to experiment with your fabric to find the cut that works for you.
‘Sometimes, I cut fabrics to fit perfectly, just touching the floor. Sometimes I use an antique piece, and I don’t want to cut it, so it’s rather less formally thrown over,” she shares. ‘What it needs depends on where the table is.’ If you’re dressing a table in a formal dining room, a clean finish may look more suited – however, a coffee table in your bedroom may leave space for imperfect experimentation.
Though, however you dress your tablecloth, you can rest in the knowledge that the statement has Rose Uniacke’s seal of approval.
