• Opinion

    Pia's Picks: arched lamps and furniture

    by Pia Seidel

Place mats

Place mats serve both aesthetic and practical functions in everyday dining settings. For many individuals and families, place mats are an integral part of setting a table, protecting the surface from spills, stains, and heat damage caused by plates and cookware. These mats are often favored for their ability to enhance the visual appeal of a meal setup, greatly contributing to the ambiance during meals. Beyond their use in homes, place mats are also a staple in restaurants and bars where setting a welcoming table is key to the customer experience.

When selecting the ideal place mat, customers should consider the material group and shape, which are crucial properties. Plastic place mats are prevalent due to their durability and ease of cleaning—a wipe down with a damp cloth can often keep them looking fresh. In terms of shape, rectangular place mats are a classic choice, versatile enough to fit a variety of table settings. However, consumers can also find place mats in different shapes to match their personal style or to cater to specific themes or occasions. Additionally, the significance of ease of maintenance, compatibility with tableware, and resistance to water or heat, should guide customers to the product that best fits their dining lifestyle.

Trendform is distinguished for their ‘Swiss Tradition 1’ place mat, which celebrates Swiss cultural themes in its design. Bitz offers a ‘Table Set’ that integrates into modern tablescapes with its contemporary styling. Zeller Present brings a creative flair with the ‘Cut Out’ place mat, which adds a unique decorative element to any table. For those seeking a touch of whimsy, ‘A Little Lovely Company’ presents the ‘Placemat Savannah PMSAGR05 43x34x0.2cm’, perfect for children or those young at heart. Lastly, Kela’s ‘Kimara’ line provides a sleek, no-frills look for minimalistic settings. Each of these brands provides varied options to cater to a multitude of aesthetic preferences and functional needs in the realm of dining decor.