[Advertisement – this is a collaboration with Royal Doulton, but all words and opinions are my own]
Today I have some minimalist table-styling inspiration using the ‘Olio’ collection from Royal Doulton, which was first founded in London all the way back in 1815 and has been producing high-quality pottery ever since. I was actually asked to style and photograph it for an Instagram collaboration and was under no obligation to share it here, but I’m proud of the results – and totally smitten with the range – so I’ve decided to go ahead anyway!
Created in 2015 and inspired by an assortment of found objects, ‘Olio’ is the work of Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby of London-based studio Barber Osgerby. It’s just been relaunched with additional pieces and updated colours, and it encapsulates everything I believe a good tableware range should have: functionality, versatility and timeless design. What’s more, it was designed to be mixed and matched with items people already own, as well as showcasing the materials used.
“What we created is a collection of pieces that can work together with the pieces you might already have in your home,” says Jay. “This update has let us revisit some of the elements that we wanted to focus on and refine. We also wanted to really highlight the materials – we have embraced the tactility of the ceramic and pared back the glazes, as well as updating the colours.”
At the heart of the range is a series of porcelain plates, bowls and mugs, all of which have a beautiful simplicity about them and mix glazed bodies with a distinctive unglazed band at the bottom. These images show the off-white colourway, but they also come in a delicate Celadon blue. There are also handled wooden serving bowls and stainless steel cutlery, but my favourites are the pitcher and teapot, which have wonderfully fluid shapes. They’re made from durable stoneware and finished with a matte-black glaze on the outside, with a contrasting glossy glaze inside.
All in all, it’s a stunning collection – and one that’s designed to be used and enjoyed every day. You can browse the full range here, and prices start at £12 / €14.
All photography by Abi Dare
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