With Good Taste: Tables, Colors, and Small Rituals That Make Us Happy

The connection between design and gastronomy is nothing new. Behind a plate, a glass, or an enjoyable conversation there is often something more: atmosphere, cultural influence, and even an appreciation for everyday details.

The selection of Apricot Crush as the Color of the Year 2024 by the trend consultancy WGSN was an early sign that the year would embrace playfully disruptive aesthetics—a balance between energy and calm that invited us to see the familiar with fresh eyes. Beyond the weather forecasts announcing grey or rainy autumns, we are increasingly drawn to philosophies such as Nordic hygge: transforming simplicity into comfort and the everyday into wellbeing. In interior design, this translates into seasons filled with vivid, natural, and saturated colours that spark inspiration and clearly connect with the aesthetics of the 1960s and 1970s. And that feeling is also present when we sit down at the table.

By 2026, colour and design trends continue along that same path of emotional connection with space. Warm earthy tones, comforting neutrals, and colours inspired by sensory experiences, vegetal and mineral shades, now take centre stage in many palettes. They are colours that, without being loud, highlight what truly happens around a table: the food, the company, and the rituals that accompany us.

Setting a Table “With Good Taste”

There is something irresistible about a well-set table. Not rigid formality or strict etiquette manuals, but the idea of creating a setting where the gathering itself becomes the focus.

Geometric prints, polygonal shapes, red as a guiding thread, tableware that recalls past decades, cutlery that looks as though it came from a retro catalogue… you do not have to look far to find details that spark conversation, and perhaps a few well-deserved photos for social media.

Everyone has their own way of setting a table, that “secret tactic” each host develops, and that is part of the fun. Will yours be the combination most celebrated on Instagram? Or the one that best frames a relaxed evening with friends?

If We Get Slightly Formal…

It is not mandatory, but it can be a humorous way to observe those small gestures that often define memorable moments.

• The napkin marks the beginning of everything. Placed neatly, folded carefully, or left slightly casual, it is the first sign that something is about to begin.
• The bread: yours is the one on the left—and now that you know, be the first to reach for it, otherwise the classic circle of “bread theft” begins.
• Elbows off the table, rather, forearms visible. Hands in sight, phones away: conversation takes the lead.
• The mantra of dipping bread into sauces is best saved for moments of full confidence and informal gatherings.
• And yes, it may feel like a challenge, but shrimp, prawns, or chicken can indeed be eaten with knife and fork.
• Finally, an evergreen rule: “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” A small smile and a practical guide for many unexpected dinners.

Between Colours and Flavours

When we speak of “good taste,” we are not referring only to colour trends or table etiquette. It is about understanding that the culinary experience is made of many layers: the choice of ingredients, the rhythm of conversation, flavours, textures,and yes, the colours that surround us.

At Vuelve Carolina, the connection between design and cuisine is not accidental. The colour palettes that inspire us naturally dialogue with a menu that looks to the world while keeping Mediterranean hospitality at its core. It is a delicate balance, much like setting a table that makes everyone who sits at it feel at ease.

There is no need to wait for a formal event to set a table with care. Everyday meals, gatherings with friends, or a sunny afternoon sobremesa are perfect occasions to experiment with combinations of tableware, textiles, and colours that simply make us feel good.

In the end, good taste is not about perfection, but about the small choices that elevate an ordinary moment.