Earthly Delights

This is your first foray into tableware. What appealed to you about collaborating with Mikasa, and how did you conceive the collection?
Good design is key to attractive tableware, and I feel both of our companies are equally passionate about this. I focused on harmonizing modern silhouettes with bright colors and floral motifs to give the dinnerware a fresh, yet vintage feel. In the same way I construct my fabrics, I layered the colors, shapes and patterns. It was also important to create a broad selection of dishes and shapes, so that they could be used on the table day or evening.

How did your previous textile lines inspire your dinnerware patterns?
Vintage Botanica is based on a print from my Belle fabric collection. I wanted to evoke a mood that is lush, romantic and sophisticated, while staying light, easy and graceful. It’s contemporary but fanciful a fresh take for the table of today’s woman. My other great loves are gardening and travel (in fact, much of my travel abroad is spent visiting historical gardens), so my fabrics often reflect my fondness for florals and the natural world. Since I love using vibrant motifs on everyday things, it was natural to apply them to my dishes.

 

 

 

How is designing a tableware line different from working with fabric?
Fabric has texture, which I wanted to simulate on the china. I worked to create a beautiful, tactile quality—making a woman feel as though she wants to touch the dishes. It’s equally important that the dishes are pleasing to the eye and feel good in your hands.

You often refer to your style as “Midwest modern.” How do you define this?
Because I grew up in a small town in Ohio, I think of the Midwest as honest, approachable and easy; modern applies the idea to today’s world. It’s about honoring vintage design while reinventing it. My sense of style comes from making things that are exciting and new, yet familiar and comfortable.

What is your favorite wedding gift to give friends and family?
I love to craft things and give gifts with personal meaning, so I consider the taste of the bride and groom, then hand-make them something they can use in their home.

 

Porcelain tableware and accessory pieces, all from the Vintage Botanica collection by Amy Butler for Mikasa. For more information, please visit amybutlerdesign.com or mikasaandcompany.com.

 

 

Amy Advises:

• When registering make two lists: what you have and what you want. Then register for what you both want.
• To create a harmonious home, combine favorite old pieces (yours and his) with new items you each agree upon.
• Foundation pieces, like a sofa, should be neutral. Big hits of color and pattern can be added in the form of pillows, throws and wall color – changed seasonally.