Blue Hills Equestrian Estate | December 2022

EQUESTRIAN living

Disclaimer: This e-Magazine is produced especially for residents/owners of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate to provide updates and useful information. It is produced by K-Studio on behalf of Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA. Although every effort is taken to ensure accuracy of content, Blue Hills Equestrian Estate HOA and/or the Publisher, cannot be held liable for any inaccurate information, and may not agree with all opinions expressed in this publication.

letter from the Estate Manager

Warm Greetings Dear Homeowners!

With 2023 on our doorstep, most of us may take this time to look back and reflect on the past year. I do hope that we can take the positives from 2022 into the new year and build new hope for a brighter 2023.

As construction actively continues around the Estate, we have actively enforced compliance concerning the Estate’s rules, guidelines as well as Health and Safety. Homeowners are required to ensure that their contractors are aware of the rules of the Estate and that they comply with them. Numerous contractors are speeding within the Estate, have caused damage to Estate property, and have a total discard for the Estate’s guidelines. This is not acceptable.

The Contractors Closure dates for the Festive period are 16 December 2022 – 08 January 2023

Homeowners may have noticed increased activity regarding the landscaping at the entrance of the Estate and on Mopani Road. The Estate has approved an upgrade to the landscaping at both entrances and the corner beds of the Estate. An external service provider has been procedured for the project based on the costings received for the implementation of the project.

The concept being implemented is as per the presentation discussed at the AGM held in August.

Homeowners are kindly advised that the use of drones around the Estate is strictly prohibited. Should you wish to fly your drone, you may do so only within the parameters of your ERF or stand. Flying drones or the like in any other area around the Estate, especially over other stands parameters without their consent is considered an invasion of a person’s privacy.

As you prepare for the holiday season, you are encouraged to be vigilant and take the necessary precautionary measures for your home, well-being, and your possessions. Should you wish to entrust your home in the care of a third party during the holiday period, we encourage you to vet the person(s) worthiness with great care.

A reminder of the “follow me home service” offered by Security. Homeowners may call the security control room on 010 109 0935 or 076 904 5511 to arrange for a security reaction officer to follow them to the Estate entrance from an agreed location. Homeowners however will need to call at least 15mins in advance to arrange for the service unless in the case of an emergency. Terms and conditions apply.

Security is an integral part of the Estate and requires a holistic approach. Unfortunately, our guards are being abused for performing their duties which is unacceptable. Security works under certain protocols and any requests or arrangements that deviate from these protocols need to be made via the appropriate channels. We appeal to homeowners to not vent their frustrations onto the guards and to please be mindful

that the guards are acting upon instruction. You may contact the Estate manager or the onsite control room to make the relevant arrangements timeously. Homeowners are requested to contact the control room as per the numbers provided should they wish to contact security for promoting assistance

General consideration by all residents for each other will greatly assist in achieving a happy community and a pleasant environment. Harmonious community living is only achieved when residents can use and enjoy their private property as well as the public areas of the Estate while not negatively impacting fellow residents.

Please be vigilant at all times and report any suspicions to the office or security.

The Board and I would like to wish all our homeowners and their loved ones an incredibly happy and safe festive season and all the best for the new year.

PS, Please note no Fireworks are permitted at the Estate other than sparklers and pop-pops.

Warm regards

Rashni Andhee-Shah

BONSAI

Article by Horticulturist at the garden group Elize Malan

This very old art form originated in China more than 2000 years ago. The grower tries to copy trees in nature. It is grown in a container, and the plant does not have to be old for its sculpture to be considered artistic.

For serious novice growers the principles that apply are well documented in books and internet tutorials. Bonsai clubs have exhibitions and can provide all the necessary information.

Taking care of a bonsai tree teaches patience. It requires regular attention.

When life slows down over the festive season and you have some time available, why not start growing a bonsai (or two).

Pinching buds, binding and pruning the plant is an ongoing process. It will bring some quiet time to an individual, something badly needed in today’s rat race.

If you are not a serious grower, forget about the rules, buy a small bonsai, or start you own from a cutting or seedling tree.

Species that are successfully used should have small leaves, but can be deciduous or evergreen. Wild Olive, Ficus, Chinese elm, and Acacia trees are good examples.

You can start by removing a seedling from your garden, or germinate some seed, or root a cutting. Fill a shallow container with a commercial growing medium. Do not forget to mix in some water retention granules. Plant the small tree and irrigate well.

Trees need sun, but due to the small, shallow size of the container a full day’s sun will quickly dry the soil and the plant will not survive. Position the Bonsai where is receives sun up to twelve midday and then filtered shade for the balance of the day.

Organic fertiliser can be used in spring to re-vitalize the soil. Re-potting is only done when the small container is completely filled with roots. This does not mean putting your plant in a larger pot. It is done to refresh the soil and have access to the roots for pruning.

Controlling the size of your tree is important. It should be an artistic picture to look at. The young seedling will need structural pruning to create the shape you want. Maintenance pruning is done throughout the growth stage of all bonsai.

To control the direction of the small tree branches, binding wire is used. It is wrapped around the branch until it maintains the new shape. Remove the wire before it cuts into the branch and leave permanent scars.

Treat aphids, whitefly or other pests with appropriate organic insecticide when needed. If you attend to your bonsai regularly, pests and diseases will be detected quickly and this will result in minimum damage to the plant.

Unlike other works of art, there are no such thing as “finished” bonsai as long as the trees are still alive and growing; they must continue to be tended to on a daily basis.

The object is not to make the tree look like a bonsai, but to make the bonsai look like a tree.

~ John Naka ~

OPEN DAY GROWING INDEPENDENT, INNOVATIVE THINKERS.

In this unpredictable and ever-changing world, we’ve made it our mission to get our students to be fit to take on the challenges and demands of the future with a technology driven curriculum that has a focus on. But we don’t just want to tell you about it, we’d like you to see it for yourself.

Reddford House Blue Hills invites you to experience how we nurture technology skills, and spark creativity. At the same time, we incorporate drama, art, and sports to grow well-rounded individuals who will thrive in the 21st Century. From fully equipped labs to world-class sporting facilities, come get a full view of what future-focused education looks and feels like.

For more information go to www.bluehills.reddford.co.za

REDDFORD HOUSE BLUE HILLS DELIVERS ON EDUCATION 4.0 VISION

Education 4.0 is the vision to prepare students for the economies of tomorrow and is based on a global imperative for education to be reimagined, focusing on the breadth of skills needed to be successful in the age of the 4IR and leveraging technological and pedagogical innovation to put learners at the centre of learning.

This is the vision that Reddford House Blue Hills has become renowned for, through a future orientated and innovative curriculum delivered with the aid of state-of-the-art equipment such as integrated coding, robotics and drones from age six.

Reddford House Blue Hills’ exceptional focus on providing students with the creative skills and mindsets needed to succeed, lead and innovate in a fast-paced 21st century world has received global recognition through the annual Inspired Builds awards, a worldwide inter-school technology challenge.

Reddford House is founded on a philosophy of fostering the unique talents of its students. The school boasts world-class educational facilities that enable academic, cultural and sporting excellence, further enhanced by dynamic teachers, handpicked to inspire exceptional learning experiences.

Students at Reddford House Blue Hills are encouraged to uncover their latent talents and excel with passion and enthusiasm in the creative and performing arts. Student wellness is also an integral part of the school’s PE programme and the outdoor gym provides a space for students to develop their fitness and strength. The campus includes ample sports fields, courts for tennis and netball and a swimming pool.

The Early Learning and Junior Preparatory Schools are purpose-built to support the Reggio Emilia- inspired philosophy, which places the child at the centre of learning in a safe and nurturing environment.

Reddford House Blue Hills is an Inspired school, a global group with a philosophy of nurturing happy, multi-skilled individuals who have faith in their abilities and are empowered and equipped to fulfil their potential in a modern world.

Happy, Healthy

Written by: By Abigail Baker Wellness Warehouse

It’s hard to believe that the festive season – with all its treats and temptations – is almost upon us again. Excited about all the celebrations but concerned about taking a few steps back on your health journey?

Here are a few tips to help you continue living well throughout the silly season…

Remember the 80/20 rule

If you’re eating well and moving your body for 80% of the time, you can really enjoy your occasional indulgences without the guilt, knowing that your body is well equipped to support you through the festivities.

Fill up on fruit

Craving sugary treats? Opt for deliciously sweet fruit. We love freshly-cut watermelon on a hot day, home-frozen grapes, or mango in our smoothies.

Choose your alcohol carefully

While we’re all aware of the many health hazards of alcohol overindulgenc, it can carry even more risks in hot weather, as it has a diuretic effect that can lead to dehydration. Try to stay below the recommended maximum of 14 units per week, and choose less

calorie-laden options, wherever possible. A vodka and soda with fresh lime, mojito with no added sugar, whiskey on the rocks, and gin and sugar-free tonic are all better options.

Stay hydrated

Keep cold water in the fridge with infusions of lemon, mint, or berries ready for regular refreshment. Always have a jug of water on the table during mealtimes, and make sipping on herbal teas (if it’s not too hot!) a way to enjoy mindful moments throughout the day.

Love your liver and support your system

Give your body some extra attention with liver and immune support supplements to see you through the late nights and festive feasts.

Make keeping active a social affair

It’s far less likely that you’ll be hitting the gym while the family is over for a leisurely lunch, but

you could all take a beach walk or other scenic stroll together, enjoy a swim in the ocean or pool, or even just dance around the living room to your favourite songs. Feeling energised? Make a day of it by visiting your local park, planning a hike, or even trying a new sport.

Manage your schedule to manage your stress

Instead of filling your holiday schedule with activities and people from morning to night, focus on enjoying the downtime that a break is meant for. There’s no need to feel guilty about spending whole days (or weeks!) alone without any plans – if you are able to do this, take advantage of the quiet time to refuel your body and mind.

Gift wellness

Not sure what to include in Santa’s stockings this year? Why not give your loved ones the gift of greater health, with things like delicious functional snacks, spa vouchers, or supplements for their unique needs?

of the Month

By Kasmeeta Gounder

EGGLESS FRUITCAKE

Ingredients:

• 250g butter or margarine

• 2 cups cake mix

• Half cup cherries and nuts of your choice

• 3 cups flour

• 1 tin condensed milk

• 11/2 tsp bicarbonate of soda

• 11/2 tsp baking powder

• 1 cup hot water

• 2 tsp mixed spice

Instructions: 1. Put Oven on 180°C 2. Heat Butter,condensed milk,water and cake mix. 3. Cool completely. 4. Add cherries and nuts, and sifted dry ingredients. 5. Bake for 45 minutes or until skewer is dry. sauce - serve while hot!

TOYOTA HILUX GR SPORT - 165 KW OF ATTITUDE

• Hilux GR Sport continues Toyota South Africa’s GR product roll-out

• Engine outputs boosted to 165 kW and 550 Nm • GR-specific suspension tuning

• Bespoke exterior design with distinctive GR-Sport front grille treatment

• Wider overfenders and black exterior-trim package

• Leather/Alcantara interior trim with unique GR accents

• 17” Alloy wheels shod with 265-65-R17 tyres

The 2022 Hilux GR Sport is the second GR iteration of South Africa’s best-selling vehicle, following the debut model introduced in 2019. It features a host of unique design and dynamic features to differentiate it from its stablemates and position the Hilux GR-S as the hero model of the range.

Exterior Design

The Hilux GR-S wears a unique suit, with the designers penning the design around the concepts of toughness and sportiness. A large and prominent black front grille, horizontal cross bar and Toyota lettering (a GR Sport trademark) announce its presence. Special treatment has been applied to the LED headlights, alongside vertically stacked air ducts with integrated LED fog lamps.

Keen observers will note that the bumpers are based on the Raider model design (rather than Legend variants) and most notably include wider black overfenders with contrasting inserts. This helps give the GR Sport a more aggressive appearance. Black mirror caps, black door handles, black side steps and rear styling bar with GR branding - create a sporty contrast. Customers can also opt for GR side decals on the doors to further add to the visual drama (optional).

Four exterior colours are offered mimicking the GR brand colours: Arizona Red, Graphite Grey, Attitude Black and Glacier White.

Interior Design

Design changes to the interior include a new instrument cluster with metallic bezels and red needles, bespoke leather-trim steering wheel with red contrast stitching and sporty aluminium pedals (with rubber inserts). GR branding has also been applied to the Push Start button and centre console. Striking carbon-fibre trim replaces the brushed finish in Legend models, which is complemented by red accent trim signalling the GR-S’ performance credentials. The racing-inspired front seats feature Alcantara inserts, GR badging on the headrests, red accent panels plus power adjustment for the driver’s seat.

Engine & Drivetrain

While the GR-Sport (aka GR-S) moniker normally represents cosmetic and handling enhancements, the Hilux variant has a trick up its sleeve in the performance department too. Power output has been increased to 165 kW (+15) and torque ramped up by 50 Nm to a peak of 550 Nm. This has been accomplished via a special ECU calibration which interfaces with revised 6-speed automatic transmission mapping and lock-up control - to ensure optimised power delivery. These improvements result in a 0-100 km/h sprint time reduction of 0.65 seconds. Top speed is quoted as 175 km/h.

Only one drivetrain configuration is offered in the form of a 4x4 transaxle mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Auto LSD function.

Specification & Features

Standard specification remains comprehensive with the model closely aligned to Legend-grade specification (with the exception of an auto-dimming rear-view mirror and JBL audio). A new feature is the panoramic view monitor.

Safety & Security

The Hilux GR-S is equipped with Toyota Safety Sense (TSS), which offers a full suite of active safety aids including Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert (LDA) and Pre-Collision System (PCS). These are joined by the obligatory ABS, VSC, EBD, Hill Assist Control (HAC) and Brake Assist systems, as well as passive safety aids such as ISOFIX and a full airbag array.

Model Line-up & Pricing

Hilux GR-S 2.8 GD-6 4x4 6AT R 865,400 (correct at the time of going to print)

Peace of Mind

All Hilux models are sold with a 9-services/90 000 km service plan (intervals set at 10 000 km) and 3-year/100 000km warranty. Service and warranty plan extensions can also be purchased from any Toyota dealer (220 outlets).

All Toyota models come equipped with Toyota Connect, including a complimentary 15 Gb in car WiFi allocation, vehicle telematics and enhanced user features via the MyToyota app.

HILUX THE NEW 165 kW

LEGENDARY TOUGHNESS

South Africa’s favourite Bakkie is back. Now with more power, more torque and more GRRR than ever.

Experience 165 kW of power in a bakkie that boasts the perfect balance between legendary off-road toughness and the thrill of Gazoo Racing. Dakar is in the details with a redesigned front bumper, an impressive black grille with Toyota block lettering, a styling bar, intricate Gazoo red stitching and 17” alloy wheels.

Book your test drive today at toyota.co.za Subject to stock availability.

Model Shown: Hilux 2.8 GD-6 4X4 GR-Sport 6AT

G a m e D r i v e A g u i d e d n a t u r e e x p e r i e n c e i n a n o p e n s a f a r i v e h i c l e G r a b y o u r m o r n i n g c o f f e e w i t h a n o p e n v i e w o f t h e B i g 5

HOW TO CHOOSE Pet Sitter or Pet Hotel?

One of the difficult decisions to make when going away on holiday or business is “What to do with our Fur-Kids while away”.

Our Pets are our best friends and even more, they are like our own Children, and leaving them behind is always difficult. I always think about it in this way – the same way we as Humans need a Holiday and time away from the day-to-day mundane tasks and duties so does our Pets, a break away from the normal routine and life…change is as good as a holiday!

There are many options and if you are fortunate enough to have a family member or a friend that can stay in your home full-time or your Fur-kids can go and visit them and stay with them while you are away, you have a great solution with peace of mind. The other options are to get a Pet Sitter to care for your Fur-kids in your home or to book them into a good quality and caring Pet Hotel.

A few options to keep in mind:

Pet Sitting Pros:

• You Pet stays in his/her known and familiar environment

• No serious disruption to your Pet or his/her daily routine

• Your home is not left alone, there is movement and this is good for security

• The Pet Sitter can also water your pot plants and ensure there are no major maintenance issues, like checking on geysers and electrical issues

• No arrangements for drop-off and pick-up needs to be made – easy and convenient

Pet Sitting Con’s:

• Your Pet is left alone most of the day as the pet sitter will visit only during feeding times for short intervals

• Your Pet may feel abandoned and get depressed

• Pets bark and get uneased when left alone for long periods, barking and crying may occur, and this will disrupt neighbors

• If your Pet falls ill, it will only be noticed a few hours later when the Pet Sitter returns

• If traveling during the Festive Season, your Pets are exposed to noise like neighbors’ parties and most of all fireworks that are very stressful for Pets and may result in your Pet escaping or being distressed.

Pet Hotel Pros

• Your Pet is not alone, there are people and other Pets around 24/7 that ensure your Pet never feels alone or abandoned

• If your Pet gets used to visiting a Pet Hotel, they become familiar with the environment and feel at ease

• If your Pet falls ill, it will be noticed immediately, and immediate action will be taken

• Pet Hotels have daily Pet Entertainment programs

• that ensures your Pet is kept busy in a fun way

• Pets feel like they are on Holiday, having a break from daily mundane routine especially when their parents are not home

Pet Hotel Con’s

• If your Pet is not socialized, it may be a bit of a challenge for him/her to get used to the other Pets being around

• Your Pet may be exposed to illnesses that other Pets may have – most Pet Hotels require full and up-to-date vaccinations including Kennel Cough to prevent Pets from getting major illnesses

• Your Pet will not be sleeping in your bed as used he/she may be used to

• Arrangements to drop off and pick up your Pets need to be made, sometimes creating inconvenience

• Pets’ usual daily routine and environment change and may cause distress to your Pet At the end of the day, the most important part is to ensure that your Pet is well cared for, not left alone and loved while you travel.

The options are there and it is your personal choice what you prefer. Whether you make use of a Pet Sitter or a Pet Hotel, make sure you are comfortable and happy that your Pet is in the best hands, to give you peace of mind while away. The last thing you want while you are on Holiday or away on business is to be concerned about your Pet’s well-being and care.

Therefore meet your Pet Sitter, see how your Pet responds to him/her, and make sure you can trust the individual with your home and most precious Fur-kids.

The same goes for your Pet-Hotel, visit the facility, ensure you are happy with the cleanliness, hygiene, and service, and take your Pet for a test visit to ensure your Pet is comfortable. Whatever you do or decide – please never leave

your most precious Fur-kids at home unattended, cared and loved – even if it is for 1 day or night!

May this Festive Season be a blessed one for you, your Human Family, and your Fur Family!

To p o f t h e f oo d c h ai n .

The new Weber Genesis .

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Clients have identified a need for our business based on the uniqueness of our knowledge, skills, proficiency, experience, and, ultimately, our value for money customized service.

We have installed more than 1MW residential systems and made recommendations to various industrial and commercial clients on energy efficiency.

Founded by Liam Vorster and Nazeem Badat, Global Green Group is a South African based company located in the heart of Gauteng. Global Green Group was established in 2022 due to the growing demand for Solar energy in South Africa as a result of the crisis we have on our grid system.

COMMERCIAL BENEFITS

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After the solar PV installation, the electricity costs per unit are lower than the rising costs from the grid and the cost of using petrol or diesel to run generators

Sustainable and the equipment is low maintenance with minimal moving parts

Farmers can become highly self sufficient in their farming and processing operations

No farming activities are disrupted by load shedding and other faults involving the utility provider but can make use of solar power throughout the year

Can apply for NERSA for tariff feedback

100% Tax deductible

AFRICAN DESIGN

Meet the OLALA INTERIORS Team with the philosophy of designing, curating and manufacturing approachable, elegant spaces with easy and luxuriously contented living areas.

As a collaborative, the OLALA INTERIORS Team is a talented bunch of designers and craftsmen who travel and work all over the world to bring home the best of internationally acclaimed designs and trends. OLALA INTERIORS installs complete, uniquely bespoke and exquisite interior projects for high end clients and delivers gorgeous, fabulous interiors, including kitchens and cabinetry.

“Our Team loves that people aspire and dream. We are continually humbled by our clients trust in us to bring those dreams into fruition”

Established almost 30 years ago by Schanè Anderson, OLALA INTERIORS has cemented itself as an award winning, multi-disciplinary

By Stephanie du Preez

decor and design studio throughout Africa and the Indian Ocean Islands.

With a collaborative approach to clients (large and small), the team delivers a fabulous experience with the very best interior design concepts on every project. OLALA INTERIORS know the importance of authenticity and treat every project uniquely to develop its own personality and signature. The team is incredibly proud of the beautifully bespoke furniture pieces and cabinetry produced in-house - a true testament to good, functional design and exceptional craftsmanship.

Luxurious, contemporary African design and styling is one of OLALA INTERIORS’ specialities and the team certainly know how to make this chic aesthetic a timeless classic.

With hot, sultry, sunshine filled days on the horizon - to be spent by the pool or, if you’re lucky, the ocean, or inside a spaciously cool interior - the Christmas season in South Africa is very far from the European norm of cold, wet and wintery conditions.

So why not ditch the fake snow and northern hemisphere trappings and bring your interior (and exterior) up to date by incorporating some inspired, truly African design.

Be brave and mix it up! Think organic shapes, natural elements such as wood (sustainable if possible), stone, marble and granite, super luxe metallics such as brass and copper, bold colours mixed in with neutral, soft, earthy colour schemes, fabulous textiles and tactile accentsthese are the foundations of African decor.

Be brave and mix it up! Think organic shapes, natural elements such as wood (sustainable if possible), stone, marble and granite, super luxe metallics such as brass and copper, bold colours mixed in with neutral, soft, earthy colour schemes, fabulous textiles and tactile accentsthese are the foundations of African decor.

Of course, entertainment is due to be high on the agenda during the festive season, with family living spaces working overtime to accommodate the varying needs of family, friends and colleagues. Ensure spaces are versatile and multifunctional, make the most of ventilation and shade, and maximise natural lighting with big, open windows, whites and reflective surfaces.

Of course, entertainment is due to be high on the agenda during the festive season, with family living spaces working overtime to accommodate the varying needs of family, friends and colleagues. Ensure spaces are versatile and multifunctional, make the most of ventilation and shade, and maximise natural lighting with big, open windows, whites and reflective surfaces.

The simplest way to bring African design into your space is through cushions and other soft furnishings. These can be incorporated into existing designs and can easily fit your personal style.

The simplest way to bring African design into your space is through cushions and other soft furnishings. These can be incorporated into existing designs and can easily fit your personal style.

Incorporate key elements into kitchen spaces too, where, lets be honest, a lot of the important entertaining takes place! Use modern, light reflecting surfaces with metallic finishes contrasted with lush soft leathers and functional as well as statement lighting.

Incorporate key elements into kitchen spaces too, where, lets be honest, a lot of the important entertaining takes place! Use modern, light reflecting surfaces with metallic finishes contrasted with lush soft leathers and functional as well as statement lighting.

And speaking of bold and vibrant, bringing artwork into the home is a quick, sure fire way of brightening a space and cementing the style. South Africa has a fantastic range of local artists, whose big, bold art finishes off the space with uber sophistication.

And speaking of bold and vibrant, bringing artwork into the home is a quick, sure fire way of brightening a space and cementing the style. South Africa has a fantastic range of local artists, whose big, bold art finishes off the space with uber sophistication.

Last and certainly not least, bring the outdoors in! Blur the boundaries between the two with wild and large scale indoor plants, floor to ceiling sliding glass doors that blend interior and exterior spaces, and consider extending your interior design, such as a fabulously elegant wall treatments, through to the exterior patio/ verandah/entertainment area - this will further enhance the merge of the interior and exterior.

Last and certainly not least, bring the outdoors in! Blur the boundaries between the two with wild and large scale indoor plants, floor to ceiling sliding glass doors that blend interior and exterior spaces, and consider extending your interior design, such as a fabulously elegant wall treatments, through to the exterior patio/ verandah/entertainment area - this will further enhance the merge of the interior and exterior.

Tablescaping

Ways to dress your table for the holidays

Make festive celebrations magical and memorable with these beautiful tablescaping ideas

With staying in the new going out, tablescaping is becoming hugely popular as we seek to transform ordinary dining spaces into magical and memorable settings to entertain guests. The art of dressing a table, tablescaping is the perfect opportunity to dazzle dinner guests with your creativity and express your personal style.

Whether it’s a small, relaxed affair or a large, formal dinner

party, there are endless ways to style up looks for every season and occasion. The great thing about tablescaping is that there are no rules –anything goes. There’s no need to go all out with a silver service setup – using what you have in creative ways can look just as effective.

‘Tablescaping is all about the fun, you can show off a little and put your stamp on something temporary in a way that you may not when designing a room. I love finding reference points for the event or time or season, it lifts everyone’s

spirits to see a well-dressed table and establish a sense of occasion,’ says interior designer, Natalia Miyar.

With the holiday season approaching, it’s the perfect time to channel the tablescaping trend with your Christmas table decor ideas. Here we’ve rounded up a host of our favorite looks to get you thinking about how you might dress your Christmas dining room later this month.

By Thea Babington-Stitt

Tablescaping isn’t just about knowing how to set the perfect Christmas table – it’s also about creating a sense of occasion and a magical atmosphere with clever tricks. We list our favorites below.

1. Take inspiration from a tablecloth

If you’re struggling to know where to start with your tablescape then a beautiful tablecloth can be a great source of inspiration. A tablecloth can really set the tone for a Christmas table, bringing a sense of occasion. Choosing a tablecloth with a central design focal running through the middle is a clever design trick that will help lead your eye to the beautiful table centerpiece.

perfect for Christmas and New Year table decor you can’t go wrong with an all-white scheme with hints of sparkle. Choose a white linen tablecloth with a beautiful texture, and stream with linen napkins in a color to match for interior, then elevate a table setting of simple white crockery with simple decorations and sprigs of eucalyptus.

In place of a centerpiece simply dot a selection of candles to create a cozy atmosphere. ‘For the tabletop, nothing beats candles; they cast a lovely warm glow, and they’re flattering too – everything, and everyone, looks better by candlelight,’ says Sue Jones

2. Keep it simple

Anyone who has hosted Christmas or a large dinner party knows how stressful it can be, so it’s important that tablescapes are easy to put together. Luckily, you don’t have to go to great lengths to create a beautiful setup. For an elegant tablescape

3. Build your tablescaping around the centerpiece

A table centerpiece is a starting point when tablescaping. It might be that you design it to echo the patterns in your china or the color of your napkins, but it will be the focal feature of your tablescape, so you do want it to stand out.

For a traditional, timeless table Christmas centerpiece try a design of winter foliage and candles. ‘English pine, holly, twigs, winter eucalyptus, anything that will dry nicely and add a festive scent. Once you have the base of foliage you can simply add flowers to suit and change as they wilt. For long-lasting flowers you’re best off with Amaryllis, Hydrangea or winter berries,’ says luxury florist Ronny Colbie.

For texture, you can add small baubles and dried fruits. For long tables, I always suggest using plenty of eclectic small vases to add different heights and dimensions to the tables. Finally, to finish off the table I’d suggest layering between the arrangements with antique candlesticks, loose pinecones, cinnamon sticks and tealights.

There’s a decision to be made with a centerpiece – whether at Christmas or in high summer, and that’s to do with its size. If you want to add impact, it might be larger than the table can cope with when it’s laden with food, so you may want to make space to move it onto a console table once you start serving dinner. Left on the table, it should never be so big that guests opposite each other can’t see past it.

4. Make it monochrome

Color is of course wonderful, but it’s not for everyone or for every occasion.

Monochrome tablescaping can be incredibly chic and contemporary if done carefully. One of the key things is to remember that monochrome can absolutely include neutrals. By widening your perception of what can be included, you’ll find the look becomes a lot softer and fresher.

Embrace natural materials here, as they provide a warm and neutral base for any monochromatic accessories such as linens or glassware.

5. Add some whimsy

Whether or not you have children in your home, Christmas is the ideal time to play. Remember, ‘you don’t need a lot to make a statement. Just consider your colors, tones, and textures for a consistent message.

Kitsch Christmas ornaments and baubles make wonderful additions to a tablescape. Try placing a few on the table and tying them together with a decorative bowl full to the brim with decorations – the child inside will love this so much more than some more veggies.

Festive gift boxes on place settings could each contain a similar bauble thoughtful and unexpected gift to your guests.

6. Consider textures

The texture is so important when it comes to creating a multi-dimensional tablescape.

‘More is more!’ says Penny Morrison. ‘I love a maximalist approach so I always suggest using lots of accessories and layering different table linens to add different dimensions to the tablescape.’

Think tactile chargers, woven placemats, and the softest linens.