Diffa's Tabletop Ideas

Rick Shaver and Lee Melahn from Shaver/Melahn Studios created fun place settings for the New York Design Center's table—actually three banquettes—that incorporated 45 RPM records customized with guests' names to carry out the design's overall vibe of a 1950's supper club.

Inspired by the French Riviera and the artists who made their home there, the details at the setting for Ralph Lauren Home included bundles of paint brushes tied with tags that served as name cards at each place setting.

Gary Warren, the visual director of Missoni USA, designed a centerpiece using Missoni Home plates, flatware, and teapot which were stacked and glued together. Even the small floral arrangements had a touch of the design brand—they were tied with Missoni ribbon.

Silver groupings covered the Walt Disney Signature table, showing off the brand's future line of tabletop wares. Clusters of shiny gazing balls were arranged on the table along with flower arrangements in the trademark shape of Mickey Mouse's head.