The Set Table: The Art of Small Gatherings - Hardcover

From supper for two on a candlelit urban roof terrace to a picnic lunch for friends on the sitting-room carpet, this is a book of imaginative and beautiful ideas for small gatherings. There will be no need to invest in a haul of priceless crockery and silver cutlery; instead, you’ll be inspired to use what you have: to repurpose old Moroccan tiles for butter dishes, say, or use a rolled-down brown paper bag for a bread basket. Built around the elements of a good table – from linens to glasses, flowers to serving platters – you’ll learn how to make a handsome table with scant resources. With genius tips on how to unearth treasures in junk shops, easy guides for simple things to make at home; effortless ideas for simple flowers and recipes for delicious homemade condiments – every table you lay will be special. The look is simple, artistic and uncomplicated, celebrating the intimate and unique experience of eating well with the people you love.

Hannah Shuckburgh is the lifestyle editor for Conde Nast's Easy Living magazine. She is also a features writer whose work has been featured in The Telegraph, The Times, The Independent and The Huffington Post.