Everyday Elegance: Choosing The Perfect Dinnerware Set For Your Australian Home

Dinnerware is an essential part of any home, and choosing the right set can elevate your dining experience and showcase your culinary creations. When selecting a dinnerware set, there are several factors to consider, such as the size of the set, the materials used, the colour, shape, design, and durability.

Stoneware, porcelain, and bone china are the most common materials for dinnerware sets. Stoneware is known for its earthy texture and rustic appearance, while porcelain offers a delicate yet strong option with a classic white finish. Bone china, the lightest and thinnest option, is traditionally used in formal dinner settings and has a translucent finish.

When it comes to colour, while white dinnerware sets are timeless and elegant, adding a pop of colour or choosing a set that complements your table setting or kitchen appliances can make a bold statement. Simplicity and a single colour are often safer choices than sophisticated patterns, which may become outdated over time.

The shape of your dinnerware is also important, with coupe (rimless) dinner sets offering a contemporary look, and rimmed dinnerware providing a more traditional and formal option.

Finally, consider the durability of the set, especially if you plan to use it daily. Check if the pieces are microwave and oven-safe, and whether they are dishwasher-safe or require hand washing.

With these factors in mind, you can choose a dinnerware set that suits your personal style, functional needs, and elevates your dining experience.

Porcelain dinnerware sets

Porcelain dinnerware is a fantastic option for those seeking a combination of delicacy and strength in their dinnerware. Its smooth and non-porous surface, along with its ability to withstand high temperatures, makes it suitable for both formal and casual dining. Porcelain is also renowned for its timeless beauty and exceptional durability. Here are some options for porcelain dinnerware sets for everyday use in Australia:

Salisbury & Co Classic Pure Coupe Dinner Set

This 12-piece or 18-piece set in classic white is perfect for those seeking a timeless and elegant option. It is usually dispatched within 1-2 business days and can be purchased from Kitchen Warehouse or Kitchenware.com.au.

Royal Doulton 1815 Pure 16-Piece Set

This simple yet sophisticated set from Royal Doulton is a great choice for those wanting a blend of modern and traditional design. It can be purchased from Myer or Everten.

Maxwell & Williams White Basics Diamonds Dinner Set

This 12-piece or 16-piece set from Maxwell & Williams offers a contemporary aesthetic combined with practical functionality. It is available in a range of colours and can be purchased from Myer.

Ecology Watercolour Dinner Set

This 12-piece set from Ecology is a unique and environmentally conscious option. It features organic shapes and earthy tones, bringing a touch of nature to your table. It can be purchased from eBay.

Casa Domani Florence Dinner Set

This 16-piece casual white set from Casa Domani features classic scalloped edges and delicate filigree patterns, making it perfect for any occasion. It is available from Homes to Love or Myer.

When choosing a porcelain dinnerware set, consider factors such as shape, colour, durability, and whether it aligns with your existing decor or desired theme. Additionally, ensure that the set includes the necessary pieces for your needs, such as dinner plates, side plates, bowls, and mugs.

Stoneware dinnerware sets

Stoneware is a popular choice for dinnerware due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. It is made from a coarse clay and fired at high temperatures, resulting in a strong and thick material that is ideal for everyday use. Stoneware dinner sets typically have a matte or glossy reactive glaze, giving each piece a unique and rustic look. They are also heavier and thicker than porcelain, making them a great option for outdoor dining.

When shopping for stoneware dinner sets, consider the following:

• Size and quantity: Determine how many pieces you need based on the number of people in your household and how often you entertain guests.
• Design: Choose a design that reflects your personal style and complements your dining room decor. You can opt for a timeless single colour or a set with sophisticated patterns.
• Occasion: Decide if you will use the dinner set daily or only for special occasions, as this will impact the durability requirements.
• Microwave and dishwasher safety: Look for sets that are microwave and dishwasher safe for added convenience.
• Salt & Pepper: This Australian brand offers a range of stoneware dinner sets in various colours and designs, such as the Bonnie, Maddow, and Hue collections.
• Maxwell & Williams: A well-known Australian brand with a wide range of stoneware dinnerware, including the popular Palette and Hana collections.
• Ecology: An eco-conscious brand that uses recyclable materials and packaging, offering stoneware dinner sets with organic shapes and earthy tones, such as the Sahara Palm and Water Colour collections.
• Casa Domani: Their Portofino Dinner Set is a beautiful option with a rustic feel, inspired by Italian dining.
• Vue: The Dexter 12-piece Dinner Set is perfect for everyday meals or special occasions, made from quality stoneware in classic colours like black, white, green, and blue.
• Australian House & Garden: The Esperance collection features a contemporary design with a stoneware finish, while the Moon White set adds a pop of colour to your table.

Stoneware dinner sets are a great investment for your home, offering durability, style, and the convenience of everyday use. With a range of options available, you can easily find a set that suits your needs and enhances your dining experience.

Bone China dinnerware sets

Bone China is a type of dinnerware that is known for its thinness, lightness, and elegant appearance. It is made with bone ash, which gives it a glossy and refined look. Here are some options for Bone China dinnerware sets that are available in Australia:

• Mikasa offers a range of Bone China dinnerware sets, such as the Delray and Lucerne White collections. These sets provide excellent quality at a reasonable price, with bright and creamy hues. The sets include dinner plates, salad/dessert plates, cereal bowls, and mugs.
• Stone Lain offers modern and stylish Bone China dinnerware sets, such as the Swirled 16-Piece Marble Porcelain Dinnerware Set and the Modern Gold Splash 16-Piece Dinnerware Set. They also have the Gabrielle 12-Piece Dinnerware Set, which is simple yet elegant.
• Gibson provides affordable and sleek Bone China dinnerware sets. The Gibson Elite Embossed Bone China Double Bowl Dinnerware Set is a great option for those seeking a simple and practical set.
• Lorenzo & Royalty Porcelain offer regal and luxurious Bone China dinnerware sets. The Lorenzo Victoria 57-Piece Porcelain Dinnerware Set and the Royalty Porcelain Vintage 47-Piece Gold Dinnerware Set are sure to impress.
• Lenox is known for its exquisite patterns and smooth surfaces. The French Perle Scallop 12-Piece Dinnerware Setting and the Blue Bay Place 12-Piece Setting are excellent investments for those who enjoy hosting.
• Fable offers sustainable and understated Bone China dinnerware crafted by artisans in Portugal. The Base Dinnerware Set and the Classic Dinnerware Set are perfect for those seeking a minimalist and timeless look.
• Le Creuset, known for its cookware, also offers lovely Bone China dinnerware. The Vancouver 16-Piece Dinnerware Set is a bestseller and comes with a 10-year warranty. You can also purchase individual pieces, such as pasta bowls and salad plates, to create your own unique set.
• Lemeya provides affordable and extensive Bone China dinnerware sets, such as the Basic 30-Piece Dinnerware Set and the Basic 24-Piece Set, which offer excellent value for money.
• Material offers minimalist and elegant Bone China dinnerware that is perfect for everyday use. The Place Setting includes a full plate, half plate, and bowl, available in three earth-tone colours.
• MALACASA has a range of Bone China dinnerware sets, such as the 16-Piece Plates and Bowls Sets in white with a gold rim, and the 24-Piece Gourmet Porcelain Dinnerware Sets in modern white.
• Mikasa Ciara offers a beautiful 16-piece Bone China dinnerware set with a simple yet elegant design.
• Amazon Basics provides a basic and affordable 18-piece Bone China dinnerware set in a classic all-white colour.

Dinnerware sets for special occasions

When choosing a dinnerware set for special occasions, it's important to consider the tone, material, design, and durability. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect dinnerware set for those memorable moments:

• Tone and Occasion: Decide if you want a formal or casual dinner set for your special occasions. Formal dinnerware sets are typically used for more elegant and sophisticated events, while casual sets are suitable for intimate gatherings with family and friends.
• Material: The material of your dinnerware set will impact its durability and aesthetic appeal. For special occasions, you may want to consider materials like porcelain, known for its timeless beauty and durability, or fine bone china, which is lightweight, translucent, and traditionally used in formal settings. Stoneware is another option, offering a rustic charm and excellent heat retention.
• Design: Choose a design that reflects your personal style and complements your dining decor. Consider selecting a set with elegant patterns or a timeless single colour like white, blue, or sage green. You can also add a pop of colour with gold rims or festive patterns during holiday seasons.
• Durability: Ensure that your special occasion dinnerware set is safe to use in the microwave or oven and is dishwasher-safe for convenient cleaning. Check for heat resistance, especially if you plan to serve hot dishes.
• Size and Quantity: Determine the number of place settings required based on the number of guests you typically host for special occasions. A standard dinner set includes dinner plates, side plates, bowls, and sometimes mugs or cups.
• Royal Doulton 'Jasper Coran' 16-piece dining set in White: Simple, refined, and durable, this set is constructed from fine bone china.
• Wedgwood 'Jasper Coran' 16-piece dining set in White: A sophisticated and timeless choice, often featuring traditional motifs and luxurious materials.
• Ecology Speckle 12-piece stoneware dinner set in Milk: Perfect for those who appreciate contemporary designs with a handcrafted appeal. The organic shape and dimpled texture will impress your guests.
• Maxwell & Williams Radience Entertainer's 18-piece set: This exquisite set features elegant fan-like lines, making it a subtle yet trendy choice for any special occasion.
• Casa Domani 16-piece casual white 'Florence' dinner set: Featuring classic scalloped edges and delicate patterns, this set is perfect for any occasion, from intimate gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Salisbury & Co Classic Pure Coupe Dinner Set 18pc White: A classic white dinner set that can easily be dressed up for special occasions with elegant table linens and cutlery.
• Noritake Eternal Palace Dinner Set 12pc White/Gold or White/Platinum: A luxurious choice with a touch of glamour, perfect for those extra-special occasions.

Remember, when choosing a dinnerware set for special occasions, consider the tone you want to set, the durability you need, and the design that speaks to your unique style. Happy hosting!

Dinnerware sets for everyday use

Dinnerware sets are an essential part of any home, and choosing the right one can elevate your dining experience. When selecting a dinnerware set for everyday use, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, think about the size of the set and how many people you need to cater for. Sets typically come with 12, 16, or 20 pieces, including dinner plates, side plates, bowls, mugs, cups, and saucers. It's important to find a set that gives you room for happy upgrading rather than lousy downsizing.

The material of the dinnerware set is also crucial. Stoneware, porcelain, and bone china are the most common options. Stoneware is constructed from clay and has a matte or glossy finish, giving it a rustic look and feel. Porcelain, on the other hand, offers a combination of delicacy and strength, with a classic white finish that is popular for both formal and casual dining. Fine bone china is the thinnest and lightest option, with a translucent finish, making it ideal for formal dinner settings. It's important to note that bone china can stain more easily than other materials.

When it comes to colour, while white dinnerware sets are timeless and elegant, you may want to add a pop of colour to your table. Blue dinnerware, for example, can evoke a sense of the sky and ocean, bringing a holiday feel to your everyday meals. You can also opt for a set that complements your table setting or kitchen appliances. Simplicity is often best, as sophisticated patterns may become outdated over time.

In addition to colour, the glaze on the dinnerware is important. Ensure that colourful porcelain dinnerware has an underglaze rather than an overglaze, as this is safer for food-related pieces.

Finally, consider the practicality of the set. Check that the pieces fit in your dishwasher and cupboards properly, and that they are microwave and oven-safe. The weight and durability of the set are also important factors, especially if you have children or plan to use the set for outdoor entertaining.

• Salisbury & Co Classic Pure Coupe Dinner Set: This 18-piece set in white is a classic and elegant option, perfect for those who want a timeless look.
• Royal Doulton 1815 Pure 16-Piece Set: This simple and sophisticated set in white is ideal for those who want a mix of everyday practicality and special occasion elegance.
• Casa Domani Florence Dinner Set: This 16-piece set in casual white features classic scalloped edges and delicate filigree patterns, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Ecology Speckle 12-piece Stoneware Dinner Set: This set in milk features a contemporary design with a textured, organic shape and a dimpled texture, sure to impress your guests.
• Maxwell & Williams White Basics Diamonds 16-Piece Dinner Set: This set offers a modern take on the classic white dinnerware set with a subtle diamond pattern, adding a touch of sophistication to your everyday meals.

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