Add a layer of art and interest to your tablescape with tiles as plate chargers.

When setting a table, add texture, color and a bit of layering to elevate the otherwise mundane mix of plates and cutlery.

A charger is not a placemat. It is also called a show plate, service plate, under plate or chop plate. It is purely decorative and not meant to come in contact with food. Normal use dictates that the main dinner plate rests above the charger. It is traditionally used during formal dinners, but today, creativity has changed its purpose.

Since layering your table setting is in vogue, the charger has become an everyday table accessory. Chargers come in many designs and materials, so if you’re not one to keep this on hand, a bit of imagination can go a long way with the use of spare tiles.

Here, the black tile charger adds that texture that is a perfect backdrop for this modern and almost stark setting.