Blue Placemats: Transform Your Dining Space with Elegance and Versatility
Let’s be honest – the little details can completely transform your dining space. Whether you're hosting weekend braais, Sunday lunches, or simply want your family dinners to feel a little more special, the humble placemat can work wonders. In particular, a blue placemat offers a refreshing pop of colour, a calming aesthetic, and incredible versatility. From coastal-inspired vibes to modern dining looks, this underappreciated decor piece fits beautifully into a wide range of South African homes. In this guide, we’re taking a closer look at why blue placemats have become a decor favourite – and how to use them like a pro.
Key Takeaways
- Blue placemats bring calm, elegance, and style to any table setting
- They’re ideal for coastal, minimal, or vibrant eclectic aesthetics
- Mixing textures like cotton, rattan, or vinyl makes the colour shine even brighter
- They pair well with wooden, ceramic, or glass crockery for a beautiful visual balance
- A great budget-friendly decor item to refresh your space with minimal effort
Benefits of Decorating with Blue Placemats
One of the best things about a blue placemat is how effortlessly it elevates your table – without clashing with your existing setup. Blue, especially in shades like navy, powder blue, or teal, tends to have a soothing quality. It also introduces freshness and depth, something we often crave in our open-plan kitchens and dining rooms.
In my own dining area, which faces our sunny Jozi garden, I’ve used textured blue placemats to break up the wood tones of our table and bench seating. The result? It looks inviting without being overdone. It’s those small switches – like placemat colour – that really energise a space.
“Table settings are all about layering textures and tones. A blue placemat becomes your anchor – it lets your cutlery, crockery and even your food shine without feeling too formal.”
Styling Ideas Using Blue Placemats
1. Coastal Vibes at Home
If you love tranquil, ocean-inspired decor – think Muizenberg surf cottages or Clifton charm – blue placemats are your go-to. Pair them with off-white dinner plates and natural serving platters for a clean and breezy look. Incorporate some driftwood, candles, or even coral-style accessories for the full effect.
2. Everyday Minimalism
If your dining style leans towards minimal, clean lines, or calming palettes, a solid-colour blue placemat in denim or navy adds subtle contrast. Pair with matte black plates or clear glassware for modern drama. A simple table runner and a vase with white flowers (like our ceramic blue flower vase) completes the understated tone.
3. Festive or Family Dining
Blue placemats don’t have to be muted. For a cheerful, playful feel (especially during Easter, birthdays or Sunday roasts), mix patterns and materials. Try this disposable purple-and-blue placemat to create a bold, budget-friendly tablescape. Match the tones with floral napkins, colourful mugs, and some fresh garden flowers.
Durability & Maintenance
Most blue placemats – whether you choose woven, laminated, or cotton – are designed for easy cleaning. That’s critical when there’s curry, bolognese or sauce involved (which is, let’s face it, often). I recommend spot-wiping vinyl or plastic-style mats, and machine-washing fabric ones on a cold cycle every few weeks.
“A good rule of thumb: match function with style. If you’ve got younger kids, go with wipeable blue placemats. If you mainly entertain adults, go all out with cotton or even handwoven options.”
Featured Product: Blue & Mustard Abstract Disposable Placemat
If you’re after a fuss-free way to introduce blue into your table setting, check out the Disposable Placemat – Mustard Abstract. While it includes mustard tones, the swirling hints of blue make for an eye-catching base that ties in seamlessly with neutral or darker dishware. They come in sets, making them perfect for events or casual feasts – and clean-up is a breeze.
Conclusion
Blue placemats are more than just decorative accents – they’re functional pieces that bring calmness and style to any dining space. Whether you’re setting up a relaxed brunch, a festive dinner, or just making your Tuesday night pasta dinner feel fancier, these mats deliver in both looks and practicality. It's a small update with a big impact.
The best part? There’s no one right way to style them. Your personal taste, colour preferences, and even your mood can shape the entire vibe. And trust me – once you start playing with placemats, you’ll realise how fun and satisfying table design can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
What table settings go well with blue placemats?
Blue placemats are super versatile! They pair beautifully with wooden tables, ceramic plates, white or gold cutlery and clear glassware. You can keep it coastal with neutral tones or go bold with prints and colour pops.
Are blue placemats easy to clean?
Yes, most are! Vinyl or plastic placemats just need a wipe-down, while cotton or linen ones can go into the washing machine (usually cold wash is best to maintain the colour).
Can I use blue placemats for special occasions?
Absolutely! Rich navy or teal placemats can instantly elevate your tablescape for festive dinners or birthdays. Pair them with silver or gold accents and fresh florals for a polished look.
Do blue placemats work for outdoor settings?
Yes – they’re great for garden lunches, patio picnics or even balcony dining. Just choose water-resistant materials for easy maintenance.
Where can I shop for stylish placemats in South Africa?
You can explore a range of stylish and affordable placemats, including blue designs, through the placemats collection at Future Decor.
Can I mix blue placemats with other colours?
Definitely! Blue pairs beautifully with mustard, white, beige, blush pink and even emerald green. Mixing colours and textures creates visual interest and helps tell your style story.
