The Fit-Out: Summer Tableware for Dreamy Hot-Weather Entertaining

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbeque, throwing a cocktail party or planning a long lunch, we’ve got your table decor covered this summer – indoors and out. From tablecloths and serving bowls to water pitchers and glassware, we’ve found 10 inspired pieces that will suit a range of entertaining styles and requirements.

Saarde Shore tablecloth – $189

To begin, dress your table with these finely woven, extra-long tablecloths. The simple and satisfyingly calm cotton-linen fabric provides a perfect base layer on which to build your table setting. Available from Saarde in a range of summery colours: olive, nutmeg, white and natural.

Citta Pinto placemat – $29.90

A modern take on a classic design, these woven seagrass tablemats will add texture and warmth to your setting. Have some fun with your table’s palette by mixing and matching the eight complementary colour options. Designed in New Zealand by Citta and available via its website.

Society of Wanderers linen napkins – $79 for set of four

Inject some retro spirit with these gorgeous linen napkins by Society of Wanderers. Whether you go with a traditional check or choose the ’70s-invoking florals, your guests will delight in these stylish lap protectors. Delicious, washed-out colours such as apricot, liquorice and raspberry add a sense of festivity. Available at homewares supplier Manon Bis.

Popolo Plates – $29 to $51

These Amalfi-inspired plates are bursting with bright colours and personality. French homewares brand Popolo’s collection of Italian ceramic pieces is brimming with dolce vita. Want to add some Italian vibrancy to your home and your table? Popolo is now available via Smallable.

Maison Balzac Pompom wine glasses – $129 for set of two

According to Maison Balzac, our wine glasses now need their own jewellery. The Sydney-based scent and glassware company’s new line of wine vessels have earring-like adornments and we love it. The Pompom glasses are super festive and come in three colourways – perfect for red, white or rosé.

Dinosaur Designs large resin Earth bowl – $300

Blurring the boundaries between art and homewares design, the Earth bowl will make a statement on your table this summer. Serving colour, form and tactility, this generous dish has all the hallmarks of its creator, Dinosaur Designs. It’s available in a number of colours, so you’ll find one that fits with your table-setting style.

Citta Forge salad servers – $69.90

These Forge salad servers will become a coveted part of your cutlery repertoire this summer. The modern utensils are designed in Citta’s New Zealand studio by 3D designer Nikolai Sorensen and handcrafted from solid stainless steel. Treat your guests (and your salad) to the brass, burnished or stainless-steel finish options. Available via homewares site Saltbox.

Uscha olive wood serving spoon – $36.95

Sourced from degenerated and non-productive olive trees in southern Tunisia, this serving spoon by Uscha is carved from solid olive wood. The dense material is perfect for cooking, while the rich caramel colour and natural grain pattern mean every spoon is unique. Find it along with other beautiful tablewares online at Uscha or in-person at Newrybar Merchants in northern NSW.

Lucy Montgomery water pitcher – $150

Imported by Lucy Montgomery Collection, this classic Italian ceramic water pitcher is handmade using traditional methods. With patterns and colours reminiscent of sunny afternoon feasts on a village palazzo, it’s a perfect complement to your laidback Australian summer soiree. The jug is a versatile piece: use it to serve refreshments or as a vase to add a floral touch to your tabletop.

Cultiver Jude linen apron – $80

Made from heavyweight linen, the Jude apron is both practical and stylish. Featuring two large pockets and cross-back straps, it will protect your outfit while you host this summer. Grab one of these kitchen essentials in natural, fawn, olive or slate hues from Cultiver.

“The Fit-Out” is a regular series written by interior designer Alice Freer. Each edition she brings you a curated selection of furniture and design pieces in a range of materials, colours, shapes and budgets. Think of it as a buyer’s guide for your home.