How to set a table like the ones at CASACOR? Architects share their tricks traduzido por: OPENROUTER

A set table goes beyond the organization of plates, glasses, and cutlery. The composition of the table participates in the decor and can transform a meal into a moment of togetherness, combining functionality, aesthetics and details that reveal the personality of the host.

Marcelo Salum - Casa Brastemp. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

At CASACOR 2026, the tables appear as extensions of the architecture in different projects. Two of them stand out for connecting materials, colors, and stories to the dining space: Fantasia à Mesa, by Rodra Cunha, and Casa Brastemp, by Marcelo Salum, both from CASACOR São Paulo. With that in mind, we gathered inspirations and talked with the architects to learn their "tricks" when setting tables.

Rodra Cunha - Rodraarq - Fantasia à Mesa. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

Rodra's project was inspired by the visual universe of the film Marie Antoinette, by Sofia Coppola. From this, the choices for the composition follow elements linked to the traditions of the portrayed era. "We have the cutlery set upside down, because in the time of Marie Antoinette the coats of arms were engraved on the back of the silver cutlery. This showed wealth, power, and status. White napkins in the past were also a display of wealth. So, ours are folded intentionally on a very theatrical scale", explains the architect.

Marcelo Salum - Casa Brastemp. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

Marcelo Salum, on the other hand, chose colorful tableware as a starting point to bring irreverence to the table created for the home of a 32-year-old woman. "The choice of the pieces brings this issue of tradition, mixed with something more modern. We also opted for the placemat and the ruffled napkins, which are also more trendy".

What makes a set table elegant?

When asked about the main care to create tables like those at CASACOR, both architects highlight the same point: the importance of coherence among the chosen elements. More than gathering different pieces, the composition needs to create a balanced relationship between colors, materials and proportions.

José Diego Torrico - Meu Loft. Ambiente da CASACOR Bolívia 2026. (Alvaro Mier/CASACOR)

"I like a simpler table. I think it's valid to use good products, which don't have to be the most expensive, but the ones that make more sense, and not be too 'decorated'", Salum advises.

Laís Sampaio - Varanda de Memórias. (Felipe Petrovsky/CASACOR)

Rodra also reinforces the importance of avoiding excesses in the setup: "More than following rules, a beautiful table needs to tell a story. I like to think about composition, proportion, and layers. The choice of tableware, crystals, silverware, fabrics, and lighting must converse with each other, but without seeming excessively arranged. Elegance, for me, lies in intention and coherence, not in the quantity of pieces".

Details that transform the table composition

Among the elements that can transform a composition, fabrics stand out as one of the highlights for Rodra. According to the architect, quality napkins, tablecloths, and placemats play an important role in creating a more welcoming atmosphere.

Gui & Dado Castello Branco - Apartamento Deca. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Denilson Machado, do MCA Estúdio/CASACOR)

"When we think of a table, fabrics are often underestimated. They bring texture, comfort and a sense of care that often goes unnoticed, but it is precisely what makes the experience more welcoming", he explains.

Felipe de Almeida - Casa Memórias Essenciais. Projeto da CASACOR São Paulo 2026. (Bia Nauiack/CASACOR)

For Salum, flowers are another resource capable of modifying the perception of the space. "I always like to have a flower on the table. At night, it is also interesting to bet on a candle to bring shine to the crystals and even to the cutlery itself". In this case, creativity is also part of the composition: the architect used the soup tureens from the tableware set itself as vases for the floral arrangements.

How to balance beauty and comfort at the table?

When putting together a composition inspired by CASACOR 2026, the balance between aesthetics and functionality is essential. After all, the table must accompany the experience of those who sit around it, without creating obstacles to conviviality.

Beth Nejm - Confraria. Projeto da CASACOR Minas Gerais 2025. (Gustavo Xavier/CASACOR)

As an example, Salum mentions very tall vases or candelabras, which can hinder conversations between the sides of the table. The choice of decorative elements should consider not only the visual aspect, but also the way the space will be used.

Nelson Machado Arquitetura - Cozinha Semente. Projeto da CASACOR Santa Catarina | Itapema 2025. (Lio Simas/CASACOR)

"A well-set table needs to be beautiful, but also comfortable and intuitive. People should be able to talk, serve themselves and stay there for hours without the composition becoming an obstacle. When aesthetics favor conviviality, the table fulfills its true role: bringing people together", concludes Rodra.

traduzido por: OPENROUTER