For architectural designer Anoud Al Zaben, setting the table is a deeply rooted tradition she was introduced to while growing up in rural Jordan – long before the idea of curating a table became mainstream. ‘For weekly family gatherings and special occasions, I was tasked with setting up tables that featured fresh seasonal produce from our family’s farm,’ she shares. The vibrant fruit and vegetables her father brought home guided her towards a colour palette, and from there, she would incorporate pottery and foraged natural elements from the garden: ‘It became a creative practice, allowing me to bring together these components into a cohesive expression.’

Having trained as an architect, driven by an affinity for materials and design, today she enjoys working across many different disciplines. Whatever the brief, she invariably refers to her home country, channeling early experiences of nature into her work. ‘The varied landscapes of Jordan – from lush forests of ancient oak trees in the north to the reddish hues of the southern desert in Wadi Rum and Petra – are a wellspring of inspiration.’ The same applies to the Levantine architecture she observed in her youth, which explores an interplay between outdoor and indoor spaces. Unsurprisingly, then, bringing nature into her table styling is a very deliberate decision, and it’s often the element that steers her creative direction. ‘I try to use rocks, vegetation and wild flora in novel and unexpected ways,’ the designer explains. ‘It goes beyond design; it’s about inviting guests to immerse themselves in the natural world through experiential tablescapes.’

Anoud’s preparations for Ramadan are well underway and given that this period shifts by approximately eleven days in the Gregorian calendar each year, the period of fasting and reflection falls at varying times annually. ‘You will experience Ramadan in every season,’ she explains. ‘With this in mind, I recommend incorporating seasonal elements when decorating your table, to convey a sense of harmony.’ To mark its arrival this coming spring, she suggests using branches of cherry and almond blossom alongside perennial flowers like irises and magnolia – incorporating blooms from your garden to give the tablescape a personal feel while embracing the fruits of the season. Floral arrangements in place, the next step is sourcing suitable ceramics and glassware to complement these natural accents. ‘When setting the table, I enjoy experimenting with creative combinations. Sometimes, I purchase items that catch my eye without having a specific plan in place, letting the table evolve organically.’

This intuitive approach might work for the table setting, but where the meal is concerned, Anoud advises pre-planning to avoid unnecessary stress. Considering the significance of the event, she underscores how important it is that your own experience of Ramadan not be overshadowed by the pressures and demands of hosting. ‘Ramadan is a social month of welcoming others,’ she explains, ‘but it’s also a period of personal reflection and spiritual connection.’ In Anoud’s view, taking a few moments to step back and re-establish a sense of calm is the key to a successful gathering. ‘I’m looking forward to slowing down and spending more time with my kids, sharing a meal that communicates our culture and traditions.’ She also firmly believes that simplicity in the kitchen is the safest route – avoiding being overly ambitious and instead, ‘sticking to recipes that have been tried and tested.’ Typically, her family starts with soup followed by a green vegetarian dish to help refresh the palette before the main dish is served. ‘I’m a fan of conceptual cooking, so I like to think of a region and decide on recipes inspired by that region,’ she adds.

With both the tablescapes Anoud curated for MATCHES, the designer wanted to resonate with the communal, contemplative and culinary aspects of the month. ‘I approached this project with a focus on connection and engagement, letting the settings evolve organically.’ The first scheme is catered towards relaxed Ramadan nights spent with close family and friends, while the second is more celebratory and created for Eid, which draws the month to a joyful close. As she observes, ‘In the fast-paced lives we live today, it’s really important to give ourselves time to rest and recover and allow our bodies to slow down.’

PHOTOGRAPHER AASIYA JAGADEESH. TALENT/STYLIST ANOUD AL ZABEN. CREATIVE LEAD ZACHARY MAYNE. STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND TALENT MANAGER JESS MAZDON-BINNS. INTEGRATED PRODUCER AMBER-SUNSHINE DEARLOVE.