A Table is a Work of Art – An Interview with Szidónia Szilágyi

As the founder of SIDONIES, a boutique nestled in the heart of Budapest, Szidónia Szilágyi is a passionate curator of fine porcelain, luxurious textiles, refined flatware, and artful crystal. In this mini-interview originally featured in Elle Decoration, she shares her philosophy on the art of table setting, why timeless pieces matter, and how hosting can become a form of self-expression.

Enjoy the full story, straight from the pages of Elle Decoration. 

Mini Interview: Szidónia Szilágyi
As the owner of SIDONIES in downtown Budapest, Szidónia Szilágyi is a true enthusiast of fine porcelain, linens, cutlery, and crystal—and an expert in the art of table setting.

How does a table become a work of art?
At SIDONIES, we believe that life’s most meaningful moments often gather around a beautifully laid table. A carefully chosen plate or glass is more than a vessel—it’s a gesture of care, hospitality, and personality. We see the table as an essential part of the interior, just like an iconic piece of furniture that sets the tone of the space.

What should we set the table with if we care about both style and trend?
Trends reflect what's currently available. Style, however, is about the conscious selections we make from those trends—it reveals who we are. Today’s dominant aesthetics lean toward natural materials and a renewed love for vibrant colours. True coziness comes when we rely on our own taste—and that’s where we come in. Table setting benefits from the same principles as interior styling: colour harmony creates cohesion, while contrast and texture bring excitement to the overall look.

Why is this world so special?
Most high-end manufacturers follow Meissen traditions, reinterpreting centuries-old colour palettes and techniques. As a result, many of their collections remain consistent over time and pair beautifully with newer designs. That’s the magic: even a decades-old set can be expanded today. Your tableware can evolve with your life.

The art of table setting as a service? It sounds like a missing piece.
Exactly. One of our main goals is to make table culture more accessible—not just to interior designers, but to anyone building the foundation of their first home. We aim to ensure that each dinnerware set reflects the host’s personality, culinary preferences, and the interior style. Our mission is to help transform table setting into a true form of art.