Those special shopping experiences with unique, handmade or imported pieces are not easy to find in this world of big box stores and mass marketed trends. I’m always on the look out for earthy or organic textures and colors with an added sense of elegance. I think the combination makes for a dining experience that is comfortable and yet special. I like to dine surrounded by color ~ it’s just more fun. And, I think makes the food we eat more attractive and delicious looking. Additionally, as much as I would love to be a minimalist – I am not – and I prefer an abundance of options to decorate the table with.

I’ve just discovered PORTA (in Brooklyn) and it’s the perfect place to shop for elevated (but earthy 😉 pieces for the casual but inspired tablesetting. Even if you have simple white plates, these stripped placemats would add such flair to your breakfast spread. Similarly, this bowl with the star-shaped design would elevate even the simplest green salad. The practical yet totally charming french-made linens from Sarah Espeute can be hard to find, so it’s a treat to see them in this shop. I think they would become the perfect family heirloom.

porta-nyc.com