MUNICH: Looking for unique craftsmanship, fine porcelain, living objects, materials or tapestries? Britta Peters gets great pleasure from travelling the world to find all these treasures and more. In her Munich showroom she exhibits in a way that mixes old with new, traditional with eccentric and still stays authentic and true to herself as she only sells what she really likes.
Her talent as an interior designer can be seen in many residences, shops and work spaces around Europe. I like the way she works with colours and materials and combines ethnic elements in a different way, so that the objects themselves tell a story.
Besides, Britta is an excellent cook and hostess. Whether she is furnishing a room or making dinner, she stays true to herself and starts with the most honest ingredients to make something special.
I talked to her about preparing dinner for some friends.
When you invite friends for dinner, what do you think about first?
I’m thinking of 6-8 interesting and exciting friends in a good mood.
Is there a certain rule you follow when thinking about a mix of people?
No, it is just my gut feeling.
How about collecting plates and glasses, any tips?
I love the flea markets in the south of France and once a year in Lille.
Do you mix your porcelain or do you stay in one brand, topic, color, etc.?
I mix porcelain, ceramics and glass, also napkins in different colors.
If you mix different kind of tablewear, what are your advice and rules?
Personally I like the difference. For example rough farmer linen napkins with fine porcelain from Limoge. I think people are more relaxed when the table doesn’t look so formal. Therefore I just take tablecloth for Christmas and New Year in one color to make it elegant.
Your favorite smell while enjoying a dinner with friends?
I love the candles from Mizensir, my favorite fragrance is Orchidée and Chocolat.
If you do not have much time to prepare a dinner for six, what would you serve?
I would start with little appetizers from a Lebanese or Turkish deli. Hummus, tabbouleh and olives with warm pita bread, served with a cold beer or white wine from Germany in the kitchen. It’s always cosy and I can prepare the main course in the meantime, like a lamb or beef stew with oven-roasted vegetables.
Your favorite drink at the moment during a blue hour?
I like Kir Royal.
Your favorite dessert? And how do you serve it?
Soft vanilla ice cream with meringues and raspberries.
Candles or different light sources during dinner, what do you prefer?
Candles are my favorites. I place little ones directly on a nice saucer.
How do you find new kinds of tablewear, linen & glasses for your shop?
On my trips all over the world. I found wonderful tablewear in Sri Lanka, ceramics in Hampshire, glasses in London…
When you think about flowers on the dining table, what comes to your mind?
Two or three little vases with flowers from the garden are more than a bouquet of flowers.
How would you make a breakfast in bed enjoyable?
A large tray, a fresh fruit salad, toast with homemade jam and mugs with tea and coffee, don’t forget the newspaper.
Your favorite herbs when cooking?
Rosemary and garlic.
