I'm probably in the minority on this forum -- I tend to leave out any detailed centerpiece until I have guests coming.

On an everyday basis, I rotate out different table runners and platters or bowls of fruit -- both of which I use myself. I sit at the end of my table and using that end of the runner as a placemat, so I have a cupboard full of washable runners. I also have a pantry stacked with platters and bowls. I change the pottery to match the runner, the size of it depending upon the fruit I'm eating at the time.

When guests come, I make up a centerpiece out of either cut, or potted flowers/plants. The simplest can be three matching vases of cut flowers or greenery, set on a narrow rectangular tray. I have a shelf in my basement of vases from which to choose.

I rarely use lighted candles now as so many people have issues with smells/smoke. I like to fully set a table when guests dine with me.

white calla lilies in a black vase

I'd get a longish, narrow, rectangular, modern or rustic tea=light candle holder.

That table is gorgeous, btw.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/178187470/personalized-candle-holder-rustic-wood?ref=related-6

http://www.zgallerie.com/p-12632-chiaro-tealight.aspx

I would use one beautiful, modern turquoise or blue bowl with interesting lines, not just a rounded bowl shape. Beautiful dining table.

I think I'd like to see a large piece of pottery with some of the blue from your rug.

Ingrid and I were thinking the same thing :) Except she was thinking modern, while I was thinking more organic.

Maybe something like this?

What does the decor in the adjoining rooms look like?

Errant has some pretty suggestions, and I like Ingrid's idea for something very simple in turquoise. Maybe something along the lines of one (or both?) of these pieces from Pier 1.

Thanks for all the ideas!

dyhgarden- I've never thought about runners, I'll have to look around and see if I like anything.

Annie D- like the visual of large white flowers in a vase. I don't have a black vase on hand, but I do have some glass ones.

tibbrix- I love the mirrored candle holder, and I know my husband would love rustic one.

Ingrid & Errant- I could see using big pottery pieces. I lean more toward a modern look, while my husband is more traditional. It makes for a slightly eclectic home ;) I do like that pitcher a lot!

TurquoiseRose- I love those pieces.

Our home is truly a melting pot. I'll take some more pics when I get home from work. But, to give you an idea... The sofa and chair are gray, and have teal and cream throw pillows. We haven't hung any thing on the walls yet and still need to find end tables and lamps. Our ottoman will mostly likely go. I was going to recover it to go with the current look. But, I think it's too big for the space. The color inspiration comes from an angry fish picture we both love. I'm more modern while Tom is more traditional with some rustic thrown in.

love starnold's hammered copper tray!

For what it's worth, I don't care for tall centerpieces because they can interfere with conversation by blocking views to people across from each other.

Those are pretty, Jen. Of course, you would know right where to find something in that color ;)

Tibb, I have a smaller table, so usually clear it before seating everyone. I never really thought worried about blocking views, but that makes sense if you leave the centerpiece during meals.

starnold- I like the silver boat and I know Tom would love the copper tray.

What would guys put in the trays? Orbs? Fresh flowers? Fruit?

I think I like the idea of low so that it doesn't have to be removed during dinner. But I also wonder if height would be better. It's only a 9' ceiling, but it feels taller (maybe because we're both short).

What kind of light fixture do you have over the table?

IMO, I the table is small, all the more reason to go with something low. Besides, the table itself is so unusual and beautiful, I'd go with something simple but elegant so as to not distract from the beauty of the table itself.

Nice thing about a tray is that you can change out what you put in it throughout the year.

On the rectangular tray it could be things that reflect the seasons or holidays or art objects I enjoy like ceramics or a collection of candle sticks; for a dinner party votives interspersed small vases of fresh flowers.

The boat lends itself to objects that are round so any kind of orbs would be great, clear glass or woven vine balls, things like fresh lemons, artichokes, apples anything seasonal. Maybe a collection of beautiful shells in the summer, in autumn gourdes and little round pumpkins.

Your table has such beautiful detail around the perimeter. I'd try to leave that exposed -- you could use a fold on each end of the runner without covering the detail -- wish I could demonstrate!

There are so many wonderful ideas here. I use many of them, but I also fall back on my favorite..a store bought orchid. They are plentiful, last for weeks and only cost $20. They also require little water..a few ice cubes once a week.

My favorites are the two turquoise and brown trays that errant showed. I wouldn't put anything in them, just showcase their innate beauty and colors. I'm not a fan of runners unless you use them when dining with company. Too fussy for the modern look of that table, which I wouldn't try to cover up in any way. In this instance less is more.

Ingreen- funny you should say orchid. My husband gave me one after my stroke a month ago that's still blooming. I sat it on the table when we moved. It's just a mini pot, so I think it's not the right scale. So, I'm thinking maybe a nice tray and 2 more mini pots might look more balanced.

I love seeing all the ideas on here!!

For those that asked about the light fixture and adjoining room...

I have this triple vase from Pottery Barn. Versatile for filling with blooms, but low enough to see over the top.