A Winter Table by Candlelight: Richard Banahan’s Seasonal Tablescape with Rathbornes 1488

Winter evenings call for something different. When darkness falls early and the air turns cold, there's something special about creating a space that feels warm and inviting. Richard Banahan shows us how to set a table that's less about perfection and more about gathering people together.

At Rathbornes 1488, we've always felt that the best moments happen around a table where candlelight, good scents, and conversation naturally blend. Richard's winter tablescape captures exactly that feeling.

A Natural, Rustic Centrepiece

Richard kept things simple: beech leaves, pine cones, small pumpkin squash, and seasonal foliage arranged across a natural linen tablecloth. Nothing forced, nothing too styled. Just materials that feel right for the season - earthy and textural.

The colours are muted: rust, copper, and faded greens. It's the kind of palette that brings the outdoors in without trying too hard. "Winter doesn't have to feel stark," Richard says. "It can feel rich and warm, with its own story to tell."

The Setting: Comfort in the Details

Richard used rattan chargers under earthenware plates - pieces that feel good to the touch and look lived-in rather than precious. Each napkin is tied with twine and a single beech leaf. Small details like this make a table feel personal.

It's about creating a space where people want to linger, where conversation flows easily.

Lighting the Moment

Light is everything. Richard layered it thoughtfully: black candle holders with Rathbornes Dinner Candles provide height and structure, while the Seanchaí Ember Candle fills the room with a soft, comforting scent of pink pepper, pear, magnolia, and rose, layered with cedarwood, ambergris, and patchouli and mild hint of roasted coffee. Richard says, “There’s something about it that feels both grounding and a little bit nostalgic - like sitting by the fire and reminiscing over old stories with some friends”.

Together, they create that flickering, golden glow that makes winter evenings feel special. The kind of light that makes you want to stay at the table just a bit longer.

The Story Behind the Scent

The Seanchaí Ember Collection takes its name from Ireland's traditional storytellers the Seanchaí (pronounced shannakey) - who shared tales by firelight. Richard's table captures that same spirit: a place where light draws people in and stories unfold naturally.

As the evening deepens, the candles burn lower, and the space becomes less about design and more about the people gathered around it.

Creating Your Own Winter Table

You don't need designer credentials to recreate this feeling. Here's what works:

Start with what's around you. Foliage, pine cones, autumn leaves things that add texture without costing much.

Keep colours warm and muted. Neutrals, faded greens, touches of amber. Nothing too bright.

Layer your candles. Mix taller Dinner Candles with scented ones like Seanchaí Ember for both light and atmosphere.

Make it personal. A handwritten place card, a sprig from your garden, a napkin tied with ribbon. Small gestures matter.

 

See more of Richard Banahan’s design inspiration and tablescape styling at RichardBanahan.com