You & AI: Styling the dinner table with a dash of AI

Nikita Chawla, a food critic who uses AI for tablescaping, shares, “I use AI like ChatGPT to elevate tablescaping into an art form. From curating seasonal colour palettes to pairing wines with each dish, it helps streamline the creative process.

It’s like having a design-savvy co-stylist on call.”Tablescaping transforms ordinary meals into stylish, curated experiences that reflect personal taste and celebrate guests. Principal interior designer Kajal Tyagi says, “Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest boosted its popularity, especially post-pandemic. From festive Diwali displays to cosy winter themes, seasonal tablescapes now mix tradition with a modern touch.”The term, a blend of ‘table’ and ‘landscaping’, gained popularity in the late 20th century, thanks to lifestyle icons like Martha Stewart.

TESTING AI WITH DIFFERENT THEMES

Theme: Formal DinnerAI tool: ChatGPT- Choose a refined colour palette (e.g. black & gold, navy & white)- Use a crisp white tablecloth; add a velvet/silk runner if desired- Add elegant chargers (gold/silver/ceramic) beneath dinnerware- Stack plates: charger > dinner plate > salad/appetiser plate- Arrange silverware using the outside-in rule (forks left, knives/spoons right)- Place water and wine glasses diagonally to the top right- Add a low floral centrepiece and taper candles for elegance- Include place cards and printed menu cards- Keep décor minimal and symmetrical- Use cloth napkins and play soft instrumental music

Theme: Rustic FarmhouseAI tool: Co-pilot- Base Layer: Start with a neutral linen tablecloth or burlap runner for texture- Natural Elements: Use wooden chargers, woven placemats, and ceramic dinnerware- Centerpiece: Opt for mason jars with wildflowers, eucalyptus sprigs, or dried wheat- Mood Lighting: Add vintage candleholders or lanterns for warm ambience- Farm Accents: Include rustic touches like tin buckets, gingham napkins, or rooster motifs- Texture Play: Mix matte ceramics with galvanised metal and soft cotton linens- Seasonal Flair: Integrate apples, pumpkins, or pinecones depending on the season

Theme: Movie Night Dinner/Bollywood BlingAI tool: Gemini- Colors: Deep jewel tones (red, blue, green, fuchsia), gold, silver, black, white, and classic popcorn reds/whites- Linens: Rich satin/sequined tablecloths (Bollywood) or black/red-striped (Movie Night). Use embroidered or film strip runners- Centerpiece: Combine tall floral arrangements with movie props like popcorn boxes, clapperboards, or film reels- Accents: Fairy lights, ornate candelabras, decorative elephants/peacocks, mini clapperboards, movie tickets, and scattered faux jewels- Dinnerware: Elegant white/gold-rimmed plates alongside fun popcorn/candy containers- Food & Drink: Serve Indian-inspired appetizers on metallic trays, alongside classic movie theater snacks

Theme: Boho ChicAI tool: Grok- Creating a boho chic tablescape involves blending eclectic, free-spirited elements with elegance- Use natural linens like linen or burlap in neutral tones, paired with a patterned runner- Mix ceramic plates, gold flatware, and coloured glassware for an eclectic look- Centre the table with pampas grass, eucalyptus, and candles in brass holders- Add macramé accents, scattered crystals, or handwritten place cards- Stick to earthy tones with pops of jewel colours. Layer textures, keep it relaxed, and avoid clutter- Soft lighting and folk music enhance the warm, inviting vibeEXPERT TIPS- Neutral Base: Start with a white or beige tablecloth to ground bold colours- Rule of Three: Use one dominant colour, a secondary, and an accent for balance- Texture Variety: Mix ceramics, woven placemats, and glassware for depth- Pattern Balance: Pair one bold pattern with solids or subtle designs- Natural Elements: Add wood or greenery to unify and soften the look- Metallic Accents: Use gold or silver sparingly for elegance- Test Layout: Ensure functionality and cohesion before finalising(as suggested by Kajal Tyagi, home decor and interior expert)