Festive Glow: Five Ways to Light and Style the Perfect Christmas Table

At Tom Raffield, we believe light is more than illumination - it’s the final touch that transforms any space, especially the dining room at Christmas, when it matters most. Swap harsh overhead lighting for soft, ambient layers that cast a warm glow - the kind that carries you beautifully from Christmas through to the brighter days the new year promises.

1. Begin with a warm foundation

Lighting is key to every scheme, from the shades to the bulb type, each creates a defining mood that sets the scene from the afternoon glow into the dark wintry evening. A sculptured light creates drama, while casting beautiful shadows across the room, our personal favourites include the newly launched Shoal Wall Light and Morna Pendant.

Muted tones offer a classic, simple twist on traditional Christmas schemes, ensuring the look remains timeless and can be used far beyond the festive season. Opting for earthy tones of oat, mushroom, and cream echo the calm of the season and pairs beautifully with the golden hues of warm bulb illuminating from nearby lamps.

Every beautiful table starts with tone and texture. To get started choose a soft, neutral table cloth in an organic linen or cotton to create the perfect base. Classic white dinner sets are both timeless and transcend any fleeting trends. For a more unique finish, opt for an artisanal finish - the imperfections feel curated yet beautiful.

Layer tactile details: linen napkins tied with foraged sprigs, ceramic plates, and handblown glassware. The key is to balance elegance with the honest, handcrafted beauty that defines the festive season.

2. Light Low and Layered

Lighting sets the scene of your table, where it should feel slow, warm, and comforting. Avoid harsh overhead light and instead, aim for a layered approach that mimics the natural glow of a winter fire.

Position pendants like the Skipper Pendant or Arame Pendant low over the table to create intimacy. Their sculptural curves, handcrafted from sustainably sourced wood, cast a dappled light across the table.

Pair statement lights with table lamps or wall lights positioned on or above a sideboard, our Kanna Portable Table Lamp works wonderfully to add a pocket of soft glow, with the added bonus of being portable, meaning you can move around the home where needed.

3. Bring Nature to the Table

We’re passionate about embracing nature, and the table at Christmas is a great place to start. This season, bring the outdoors in with winter foliage and forest finds. Eucalyptus, pine, and rosemary bring fragrance and texture, while dried seed heads and fern fronds add visual interest.

Arrange foliage in simple ceramic vases or let it trail freely along the centre of the table, intertwining with fairy lights or clusters of unscented candles. The mix between natural textures and the warmth of wood and light creates a table that brings a little of the wintery landscape inside.

4. Add a Spark of the Unexpected

A memorable table has moments of surprise with small design choices that spark conversation. Consider one of our Noctis finishes for a contemporary contrast, or introduce a single sculptural light, like the Shore Pendant, to frame your dining nook in a soft glow.

Add a delicate touch of festive shimmer without overpowering your natural scheme with small metallic touches, such as brass cutlery, glass baubles or chrome candlesticks. These reflective finishes create movement and add to the festive look.

5. End with Glow and Gathering

As the evening unfolds, dim the lights a touch and let the candles take over. The soft shadows and glow invite conversation and connection - everything that makes the festive season feel so special.

Posted: 20.11.25
Updated: 20.11.25