Many of us grew up in homes where we had a fine set of china that only came out when we had guests. As a child, I always wondered why we couldn’t just use the fancy dishes and silverware all year round. But as an adult, I now understand that sometimes the fact that some objects are tied with special occasions just makes them even more special.
Which is why we are excited that IKEA’s HEMMAFEST is back in stores. The collection features contrasting blues and reds in geometric Islamic motifs and organic florals. It was inspired by one of the most revered months and celebrated holiday in the world; Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr. You can now have your own “special” flatware at affordable, everyday prices, and it’s so pretty that you might end up deciding to keep it in use all year round.
The Holy Month of Ramadan revolves around food, family and gatherings as much as it is a celebration of various spiritual and religious elements. Families and friends gather around their tables every day at Iftar to break their fasts together or to fill up for the next day at suhoor. And of course, lounging around after the food-induced comas hit.
Jennifer Idrizi, the collection’s UK- based designer said “The HEMMAFEST collection has a flowery theme with two main traits – one is geometric, and the other is organic. I was inspired by Arabic art where floral patterns have always been prominent. All parts fit together so you can combine your favorites as you like. Perfect when you want to create a fresh and vibrant feeling when it’s time to set the table for a party. Enjoy your meal!”
The HEMMAFEST collection is made up of tableware and home textiles that go perfectly together and will transform your home into a festive haven for Ramadan and Eid. And of course, they can work all year round giving your space a little Arabic style. Because of the subtle yet iconic oriental design aesthetics, every cup, plate, tray or cushion works just as fine for all kinds of gatherings, all year round. It looks coherent instead of looking like it only belongs in a themed party.
Mix the Prints
Using a single print for all of your dishes, placemats and napkins looks dated really quickly. Mixing and matching is best way to keep your entire collection looking fresh and new every time you have guests over. For example, you can use different prints for the same sized plate or between the different sizes. Either way keeps it looking exciting.
Corner Trays
Trays are always an overlooked part of any spread. The HEMMAFEST collection includes several sizes of laser-cut metal trays and a hand-carved wooden tray. Fill them with dates, sweets and coffee so that your guests can help themselves to whatever they need. Make sure that they are visible and easy to access too. bazaar tip: A tray with useful items like toothpicks, hand sanitizer or heartburn relief medication that people always wish they had but might feel awkward about asking for is a great way for making everyone feel welcome.
Combine Textiles with Dinnerware
Using the different elements and pieces from the collection will help make your space look coherent and intentionally designed. You don’t have to use the same print for the curtains, cushions, placemats and dishes, on the contrary, use different ones so that everything looks in-tune but without being overwhelming.
Use the Cushions for seating
The more the merrier, is the official Arab slogan for life and even more so for gatherings that involve food. It is normal for hosts to invite more people than they actually have seating space for, but none of us ever mind. Just pull a couple of cushions and lounge in any empty space. The beautiful and differently shaped cushions from the collection will make for comfortable sitting. Stock up on some floor cushions and bolsters so that your guests can make themselves at home. Mixing the round with the square ones will add to the visual interest too.
Whether you are socializing, dining or celebrating, HEMMAFEST will make your home festive-ready in an instant for the entire year.
The HEMMAFEST Collection is available in the store now, but it is a limited collection, so get it while stocks last. IKEA is located in the Avenues, Al Rai. For more information visit the IKEA Kuwait website, and follow them on Instagram @ikeakuwait to stay up to date. Featured image courtesy of IKEA.
