Sofía Vergara's outdoor dining room is home to one of the most beautifully dressed tables we've ever seen

While we tend to think of interior design as the more permanent fixtures in our homes, the ephemeral is just as important. A floral display, a child's art hung on the fridge, the perfect throw blanket draped casually over the sofa: these are the touches that turn a house into a home. Sofia Vergara's gorgeous outdoor tablescape is the perfect example of how something temporary can transform a space.

The actress's dining table takes her patio design to the next level. Vergara's long dining table (on the second slide of the Instagram carousel below) features a green linen tablecloth with green glasses and green pitchers. Each setting features a raffia and cowrie shell placemat with a white and green china place. Gold coasters and a gold champagne bucket add the perfect metallic accent.

'As the warm breeze of summer beckons, setting a beautifully adorned table for outdoor gatherings becomes a delightful way to embrace the season's spirit,' says Nina Lichtenstein, Westchester-based interior designer. She continues, 'Whether you're hosting a casual brunch, an elegant dinner party, or a laid-back gathering with friends, mastering the art of creating a captivating summer tablescape involves understanding key tips and selecting essential elements including table linens, dinnerware and glassware, and a centerpiece.'

To follow the lessons embodied in Vergara's summer table decor, Lichtenstein recommends: 'Start with a crisp tablecloth or a runner in light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Opt for colors and patterns that evoke the freshness of summer, such as pastels, stripes, or floral prints. Choose a cohesive color palette that reflects the summer season. Consider using complementary colors or shades of the same hue to tie everything together. Incorporate pops of color through floral arrangements or colorful glassware.'

Nina Lichtenstein

Nina Lichtenstein is the founder and principal home designer at her eponymous design studio, based in Westchester, NY. Nina believes that home design should capture a family’s unique spirit by how it serves the family's daily needs while nourishing the soul. She has been celebrated for designing, renovating, and building elegant living spaces.

She continues on the topic of styling a table, 'Choose dinner plates, salad plates, and glasses that complement the theme and color scheme of your tablescape. Mix and match textures and styles for an eclectic look, or keep it cohesive with a matching set. Create depth and interest by layering different textures and heights. Stack plates on chargers or placemats, and layer napkins with napkin rings or decorative folds. Use varying heights with candlesticks or vases to add dimension.'

Shop The Look

Easily replicate Sofía Vergara's tablescaping style with cowrie shell and raffia placemats, a green tablecloth, and tall green glasses.

Just because something is short-lived, does not mean it can't be design-led. Though the lessons from Sofía Vergara's home are directly applicable to tablescaping, the ethos of the style can be used across the home.