Enhance Your South African Home with Stylish Decorative Dishes
If you’re anything like us South Africans, your home’s got a bit of flair and a whole lot of personality. And what better way to pull a look together than with a stunning decorative dish? It’s that one piece that quietly says, “Yeah, we’ve got style here.” Whether you’re hosting a Sunday braai in Pretoria, sipping Rooibos in your Cape Town lounge, or just reorganising the chaos that is a Jozi coffee table — a decorative dish can be that finishing touch that ties it all together.
Key Takeaways
- Decorative dishes add elegance and functionality to any South African home
- Perfect as centrepieces, snack holders, or catch-alls for keys and trinkets
- Available in styles to suit anything from coastal chic to Joburg glam
- Easy to maintain — just avoid harsh cleaners and always check for food safety ratings
- Ideal for both indoor and outdoor entertaining, depending on the material
- Great conversation starters during gatherings or just stylish everyday moments
Unsure how a decorative dish might best suit your space? Use our easy tool to visualise different styles and materials right in your room!
Visualise Your Decorative Dish
Preview appears here based on your choice.
What Is a Decorative Dish (and Why You’ll Love Having One)
A decorative dish is no longer just something Ouma keeps on the dresser. It’s your new go-to décor piece for adding both style and function to any part of your home. In South African homes — from Stellenbosch studios to Centurion family pads — they’re used to hold anything from dried fruit to delicate potpourri, or even to serve biltong at sundowners.
How To Style a Decorative Dish in Your South African Home
1. As a Coffee Table Centrepiece
Layer your decorative dish with candles, decorative beads, or natural elements like seed pods or eucalyptus leaves. Add your gold pineapple plate and you’ve created a conversation starter.
2. For Serving Snacks and Goodies
Draw inspiration from our legendary hospitality and fill your dish with home-baked rusks, chocolate blocks, or snack mix. Be sure it's food-safe — especially if you're using one of our exclusive decorative platters.
3. Entryway Essentials
Keep car keys, rings, or loose change in one place. It’s functional and makes your entrance pop with personality. Pair it with a dried protea stem for local flair.
“We added a rustic ceramic dish to our hallway in Paarl — it catches the sunlight beautifully and now holds our keys and little notes. Instant charm!” — Zanele M., Western Cape
4. On Your Dining Table
Layer a crisp runner, add a decorative dish filled with seasonal fruit or pinecones, and voila — Sunday lunch never looked better.
“Using my glass dish with colourful biltong skewers at my daughter’s birthday — it was both practical and a hit with the moms!” — Lynette D., Fourways
Quick Comparison: Which Decorative Dish Is Right for You?
| Style | Material | Best Use Case | Suitable for Food? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rustic Farmhouse | Wood or Ceramic | Entryway, Living Room | Yes, food-safe versions only |
| Modern Minimalist | Glass or Metal | Dining Display | Yes, check the label |
| Boho Chic | Terracotta | Outdoor verges, patios | No, decorative only |
| Jozi Glam | Gold-accented Glass | Formal Lounge | Occasionally, with liner |
Inspired? Explore More
- Shop our full décor collection
- Get this golden pineapple plate
- Read: Decorative Accessories - Tips to Elevate Your Space
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a decorative dish typically used for?
A decorative dish is often used to add a touch of elegance to a room, serving as a centerpiece or a holder for small items like fruits, candies, or other decorative objects. It can also be used as a serving dish for small gatherings.
How do I clean and maintain my decorative dish?
For most decorative dishes, use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water to clean them. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
Can I use my decorative dish for serving food?
Depending on the material and finish of the decorative dish, it might be suitable for serving food. However, check if it is safe for food contact and follow proper cleaning and maintenance guidelines.
Are decorative dishes dishwasher safe?
Some decorative dishes are dishwasher safe, but it depends on the material. Always check the manufacturer's instructions to ensure safe cleaning in a dishwasher.
How do I store my decorative dishes when not in use?
Store your decorative dishes in a dry place, avoiding stacking them to prevent scratches. Use a soft cloth to wrap each dish for added protection.
Can I use a decorative dish as a centerpiece for both formal and casual settings?
Yes, decorative dishes can be versatile and used in both formal and casual settings depending on the design and the items they hold.
Are decorative dishes suitable for outdoor use?
It depends on the material and construction of the dish. Some materials may not be weather-resistant, so always check if the dish is suitable for outdoor conditions before using it there.
How do I prevent scratches on my decorative dish?
To prevent scratches, use soft utensils and avoid stacking dishes. Also, avoid using metal utensils or abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
