Cast off
Finely woven, locally produced, and stylishly presented: table linen from Austria is experiencing a revival. Why regional textiles are taking on new significance for the restaurant and hotel industries and connoisseurs, and how tradition, sustainability, and design are merging to make a strong statement.
At a time when authenticity, regionality, and sustainability have become the currency of upscale hospitality, an often underestimated element is coming back into focus: table linen. What used to be purely functional is now becoming a stylistic extension of the host’s DNA. And it is local companies that are inspiring the industry anew with their spirit of innovation and tradition.
Appreciation begins at the table
Whether in a fine dining restaurant, a boutique hotel, or at a private culinary dinner, table linens become tactile ambassadors. They signal quality, care, and individuality. This is precisely where Austrian manufacturers such as Übelhör, Palla Vienna, and Candola come in—with products that not only look beautiful but are also thoughtfully produced.
Übelhör: Weaving artistry since 1948
In Höchst in the Vorarlberg Rhine Valley, Übelhör has been weaving quality for decades. The Jacquard technique introduced in 2012 enables designs that are tailored to the needs of the catering industry: robust, easy to care for, and with a long service life. Particularly popular are floral patterns such as “Pusteblume” (dandelion) or classic Alpine motifs such as “Edelweiß” (edelweiss). GOTS-certified materials and local production also make the fabrics attractive for sustainability-oriented businesses.
Candola: Innovation from the heart of the catering industry
Candola not only brings table textiles to the world, but also textile accessories such as cloth napkins, placemats, and decorative table runners – CO2-neutral, flexible in fulfilling customer requirements, and with a commitment to quality. As a manufacturer based in Austria, Candola is also a partner that combines short distances, individual support, and absolute professionalism.
Palla Vienna: When kitchen towel patterns become haute couture
Designer Alexandra Palla transforms the classic kitchen textile pattern—the check—into a fashion statement. Together with the traditional weaving mill Vieböck in Upper Austria, she creates not only home textiles, but also a piece of narrative identity. The fabrics: soft, pre-washed, made from European flax. The designs: playful, timeless, and full of history. A must, especially for boutique hotels with high design standards.
Trends 2025: Fabric as a statement
Current developments show that textiles are no longer accessories, but an integral part of storytelling. Materials with character, recognizable patterns, sustainable origins, and a feel to fall in love with – that's what modern guests expect. And those who manage to combine table culture with attitude not only score points with guests, but also on social media and in PR.
Why table textiles are making a comeback:
- Sustainability as a USP
- Regionally produced materials strengthen brand identity
- Storytelling through textiles: colors, patterns, and feel become trademarks
- Ideal for photo shoots, social media, and staging
- Cooperation with local designers creates new target group relevance
Our conclusion for the future:
Table linen is more than just a tablecloth. It is an expression of attitude, style, and hospitality. Those who rely on local producers benefit from short supply chains, personal advice, and a product that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also ethical.
From Genusspunkt Sept-Oct 2025
© Übelhör
