Mieke ten Have’s Favorite Things

“Similar to my theory on plates, I think one can never have enough napkin options. A good table is like a good room. It often starts with the fabric.”

“I have a small collection of pretty tea strainers (and copious teapots), and I love a strong loose leaf tea. I’m a longtime fan of Bellocq.”

“I’m very low-fi when it comes to exercise. This is the only sneaker I play tennis in.”

“What happened to real soap and why has it been replaced with plastic encased liquid sap? Good soap—you can’t do better than a proper savon de Marseille—is worth its weight in gold. I collect it and save it in a soap box (the literal kind).”

“This pattern is reminiscent of Suzani textiles and the colors are heaven. Plates are both my passion and my downfall. ”

“I’ve used this luscious throw on shoots more times than I can count. It’s sumptuous to the touch and drapes beautifully. This hit of yellow somehow goes with everything.”

“I enjoy walking in the rain. It must be the Dutch in me. This waxed Filson hat has been my longtime walking companion on many an inclement day. Highly recommend.”

“A tree of life fabric always endures. This printed Claremont fabric mimicks crewelwork and feels timeless and modern. I love the simple lines of this Nickey Kehoe sofa.”

“I’m a luddite. I like all the trappings of paper. I’ll never give up my notebooks (or my magazines, my stationery or my books).”

“Gio Ponti always and forever!”

“Caviar with a touch of creme fraîche, consumed with a spoon would 100 percent be on my death-row, last-meal menu.”

“I have a few of my grandmother’s old Mark Cross boxes. They age beautifully, and I adore oxblood anything. I love seeing a heritage brand stand the test of time.”