Setting an Inviting & Cozy Space
Home design expert Julia Reynolds knows how to create a beautiful, cozy style and can effortlessly elevate any interior. Follow her on Instagram, @wellnestedhome.
I’ve always loved a great meal where conversation continues long after the last sip of cappuccino. Cozy evenings, or even a relaxing brunch, with good food, laughter, and an ease that makes you want it to continue for hours.
Through the years of trying to create these kinds of cozy experiences, I’ve learned the setting and environment helps set the tone more than I could have guessed. The table is the first glimpse of what’s to come. And it helps create the atmosphere.
I like to use natural elements like flowers, a plant, a sprig tucked into a napkin, woven textiles, and cotton linen. And I love pottery for the mood it helps create. I’m drawn to the heavy, earthy, and simple feel. And the layers of texture it provides.
Here in Atlanta, we often gather on our front porch for a leisurely brunch or casual dinner. The chairs are comfy and the table is small but it’s perfect for an intimate gathering. Since our concrete coffee table isn’t as roomy as a dining table, we use East Fork’s side plates for our main course. (It’s almost always quiche, recipe below, for brunch.)
I then layer with the ice cream bowls and the cake plates that are the perfect size for side salads and small plates that don't leave you feeling too full. I chose Fiddlehead and Panna Cotta (which go really well together) with our outdoor dining in mind. But this dinnerware is perfect for winter evenings by the fire too.
I grew up in a cozy home and we always ate off pottery plates. As a child, that’s just the way it was. As I got older, I appreciated that the pottery was special and not what everyone else had. And it’s handcrafted; each piece is essentially one-of-a-kind.
For those of you who love brunch as much as I do, here’s my favorite quiche recipe. Everytime I serve it, someone asks for the recipe. Simple and easy so you can focus on enjoying your guests.
Perfect Brunch Quiche
Customize this recipe. My favorites are spinach feta, sausage mushroom and bacon tomato.
Ingredients
1 ¼ cup milk
5 eggs
¼ teaspoon salt
â…› teaspoon pepper
2 cups of cheese (pick your favorite.)
Pie crust - I usually use ready made or this sourdough crust recipe.
Directions:
Pre heat oven to 375.
Grate your cheese and fill your pie crust with it.
Place your vegetables and/or meats on top.
Mix eggs, milk, salt and pepper and pour over the cheese and fillings.
Bake at 375 for 45 minutes until the quiche looks puffy. (You may need more time depending on your oven.)
