A Lesson in Tableware Arrangements with modern Finnish Dinnerware

Mixing and matching dinnerware is a sure way to tailor the look of your tableware. Instead of buying a set, some brands allow you to buy plates, bowls and cups individually.

More and more people let go of the everyday dinnerware and entertaining tableware to replace them with a single casual chic set. You can save on space. Or you can fit more place settings by regrouping everything and be able to host bigger dinner parties.

To enhance your tableware when you are entertaining, you can add a patterned plate or bowl. You can see the different effects if you select a salad plate versus a dinner plate. With time, you can add more pieces for more flexibility.

The Finnish brand iittala proposes three collections that harmonize well together. The possibilities are vast. The black Taika pattern designed by the famous Klaus Haapaniemi is available since Fall 2008. I prefer the white and the blue patterns to the black one.

Available in 9 colors, Teema is a range of 21st century design objects created by Kaj Franck in the 1950s. Teema still looks current today. Alfredo Haberli designed in 1999 the brightly striped ceramic bowls, mugs, and plates of the iittala Origo dinnerware.

Notice that until February 28, 2009, iittala offers Taika and Origo in seasonal items in red. I adore the fact that the iittala dinnerware is freezer, microwave, oven, and dishwasher safe

SOURCING:
+ iittala Taika dinnerware, $8 to $32 each at Zwello
+ iittala Teema dinnerware, $9.20-$44.00 at Zwello
+ iittala Origo dinnerware, $7.50 to $52.50 each at Finnish Gifts