The Evolution Of Contemporary Crockery: A Fusion Of Art And Functionality

Contemporary crockery is all about making a statement. From bold, abstract prints to rustic, glazed mugs, contemporary crockery is an easy way to add a unique touch to your dining experience. Whether you're after a modern and eclectic look or something more traditional, there are plenty of options to choose from. You can expect to find crockery in plain colours, from deep black to fresh white, as well as more vibrant hues that are sure to make a meal feel like a special occasion. Contemporary crockery is also designed with durability in mind, often made from high-quality porcelain or stoneware. So, if you're looking to update your tableware, why not try something contemporary?

Stoneware sets

Stoneware is a popular choice for crockery due to its durability and rugged, handmade aesthetic. It is often chosen for its ability to withstand daily wear and tear, making it ideal for those who cook frequently. Stoneware is also loved for its natural look, which tends to make food look more appealing.

West Elm Kanto Stoneware Dinnerware

The West Elm Kanto collection is a contemporary stoneware set designed in Portugal. The set includes four small bowls, four pasta bowls, four dinner plates, and four salad plates. The pieces are generously sized, with a nice weight and depth, and feature a textured exterior and delicate foot. The reactive glazes used on this design will speckle and crack differently every time, ensuring that your dinnerware is truly one of a kind. The set is both dishwasher and microwave safe.

Pottery Barn Dinnerware Set

The Pottery Barn stoneware collection exudes a simple and timeless aesthetic that easily pairs with existing pieces. The set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, and four soup bowls. The pieces are made with durable dishwasher and microwave-safe construction and will last for years. The universal white glaze has hints of grey and brown, resulting in a versatile design that can be mixed and matched with other pieces.

Hawkins New York Essential Stoneware 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

The Hawkins New York stoneware set is a beautiful and versatile collection that can be used for both fine dining and casual breakfast tables. The set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, four pasta bowls, and four cereal bowls. The plates are intentionally flat and have a low lip, making them ideal for saucy dishes. The handmade qualities of the stoneware are evident in the soft rippling on the surface, reminiscent of hand-thrown designs. The set is available in six stunning shades that can be mixed and matched for an eclectic tabletop scene. The pieces are dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe up to 450°F.

Arhaus Twilight Dinnerware

The Arhaus Twilight Dinnerware collection is a galactic-inspired set that is sure to make a memorable impression on your dining table. The pieces are handcrafted and hand-painted in a reactive glaze that blooms into a wide range of blues, from cornflower to cerulean. The set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, four pasta bowls, and four mugs. The unique shapes and subtle differences in each piece bring a sense of imperfection and handmade charm to your tableware. The set is dishwasher and microwave safe.

Le Creuset San Francisco Coupe 16-Piece Dinnerware Set

The Le Creuset stoneware set is a classic and durable collection crafted from premium stoneware. The set includes four dinner plates, four salad plates, four mugs, and a choice of pasta or cereal bowls. The pieces feature a thin three-ring design around the edge, adding a touch of country charm to the utilitarian design. The set is available in a range of vibrant enamel glazes that have become synonymous with the Le Creuset brand. The dinnerware is dishwasher, microwave, freezer, and oven safe up to 500°F.

Traditional crockery

Older crockery, such as the cups, saucers, and plates commonly found in diners, tends to be heavier than more formal types of hollowware, like fine china. Despite their heavier weight and simple design, these pieces can still be used to set an attractive table, as their simplicity allows for great versatility with accessories.

Crockery is safe to load into a dishwasher or wash by hand. The construction is durable enough to withstand repeated use.

Types of Traditional Crockery

• Bone china: Sophisticated, elegant, and remarkably strong, bone china is made from at least 45% bone ash, giving it a refined, delicate appearance. It is very light, allowing waiters to carry multiple plates at once. However, due to its composition, it may not be suitable for vegan or vegetarian establishments.
• Porcelain: Porcelain is usually hard, white, and slightly translucent, with a smooth glazed finish that may be plain or patterned. It is safe for use in the dishwasher, microwave, oven, and freezer, making it an excellent choice for both restaurants and homes.
• Earthenware: One of the first forms of pottery, earthenware is typically thick and coated with a simple glaze. It is quite heavy, making it ideal for cookware like tagine pots and roasting dishes. While sturdy, earthenware is slightly porous and best suited for handwashing as it is not highly chip-resistant. It is safe for use in the freezer, microwave, dishwasher, and oven.
• Stoneware: As defined by the EEC, "Stoneware, which, though dense, is impermeable and hard enough to resist scratching by a steel point, differs from porcelain because it is more opaque and normally only partially vitrified." Stoneware heats up slowly and evenly in the oven, ensuring dishes cook evenly. It is chip, stain, and scratch-resistant, with a coarse feel that becomes smooth and shiny when glazed.

Colourful crockery

For a unique and handcrafted feel, consider investing in artisan-made crockery. These pieces often have intricate designs and can bring a sense of individuality to your table. You can find colourful crockery in various materials, including stoneware, porcelain, and ceramic. Stoneware is a popular choice for its sturdiness and safety in the dishwasher and freezer. Porcelain is known for its durability, elegance, and chip resistance, while ceramic offers high mechanical resistance and a soft touch.

When it comes to colours and patterns, the possibilities are endless. You can opt for a consistent colour throughout your set or go for a multicoloured option, which is perfect for a vibrant table setting. Some popular colour options include green, berry, natural cotton, and lemon. You can also find crockery with creative patterns, such as floral designs or French country house-style motifs, adding a timelessly elegant charm to your table.

In addition to colours and patterns, you can also play with different shapes to create a modern twist. Consider square-shaped dinner plates instead of traditional round ones. Gold trim on dinner plates and serving trays can also add a touch of luxury to your table setting. Don't forget to complement your colourful crockery with suitable glassware and cutlery to complete the look.

When shopping for colourful crockery, you'll find a range of options from brands like Villeroy & Boch, Unique & Unity, Wayfair, and Dunelm. Whether you're looking for a full dinner set or individual pieces, these retailers offer a wide variety of styles and designs to suit your taste and budget.

Crockery with abstract prints

Contemporary crockery with abstract prints is an excellent way to refresh your dining experience and add a bold statement to your table setting. Abstract art evokes emotions and focuses on the use of colour, texture, shapes, and gestural marks to express the artist's imagination and feelings.

You can find a wide range of abstract crockery options on Etsy, a global marketplace for unique and creative goods. Etsy offers handmade, vintage, and custom items, including abstract-printed crockery. Their collection includes abstract-printed mugs, tea sets, plates, and more. You can find both new and vintage items on Etsy, allowing you to mix and match to create a unique table setting.

Another option is to explore the abstract art prints offered by Abstract House. They have a collection of over 1000 abstract artworks, including original paintings, limited-edition prints, and modern canvas art. You can choose from a variety of colours, designs, and artists to find the perfect abstract print to elevate your crockery and dining experience.

Additionally, King & McGaw offers an abstract painting collection featuring modern masters like Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and Mark Rothko, as well as contemporary artists such as Frank Bowling and Fiona Rae. Their prints are framed and range from £155 to £520, offering an affordable way to bring famous abstract artists into your dining space.

Whether you choose to shop on Etsy, Abstract House, or King & McGaw, abstract-printed crockery will undoubtedly add a touch of contemporary flair to your table. Mix and match these unique pieces to create a dining experience that is not only functional but also a beautiful expression of your style and emotions.

Crockery with floral embellishments

Floral crockery is a beautiful way to bring a touch of nature into your home and elevate your dining experience. Whether you're looking for a full dinner set or individual pieces to mix and match, floral crockery offers an elegant and sophisticated way to present your food.

Monochrome Magic

For a contemporary take on floral crockery, opt for a monochrome palette. A simple black and white colour scheme with an etched or graphic floral print strikes the perfect balance between pretty and modern. This timeless design will look good all year round and can be dressed up with polished silver and sparkling glassware for a celebration or used as an everyday set.

Vintage Charm

Vintage floral crockery exudes a romantic, whimsical charm. From delicate porcelain tea sets adorned with intricate floral patterns to colourful crockery with bold floral prints, vintage floral crockery is perfect for creating a unique and eclectic table setting. Mix and match different patterns and colours for a fun and playful vibe, or keep it consistent for a more elegant affair.

Pretty in Pastel

Pastel-coloured crockery adorned with floral embellishments is a lovely way to add a soft and feminine touch to your table setting. From plates and bowls to teacups and saucers, pastel floral crockery will make your dining experience feel extra special. Combine with matching napkins and serviettes for a fully coordinated look.

Floral Embellishments

If you're looking for a more subtle way to incorporate florals into your crockery, consider pieces with floral embellishments. From crockery with gold floral rims to plates and bowls with floral-shaped edges, there are plenty of ways to add a hint of floral elegance to your table.

Mix and Match

Don't be afraid to mix and match different floral crockery pieces to create a unique and personalised set. Combine different patterns, colours, and styles to curate a one-of-a-kind collection that reflects your taste and personality. You can also mix and match floral crockery with plain white pieces for an easy, eclectic update.

Care Instructions

When caring for your floral crockery, always check the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. Many floral crockery sets are dishwasher-safe, making them convenient and easy to maintain. However, some more delicate pieces may require hand washing to preserve their intricate designs.

Frequently asked questions