12 Ways to Style a Coffee Table Like a Designer
Styling your coffee table can transform your living space into a functional yet stylish focal point. Here’s how to do it like a pro:
- Use Decorative Books: Stack books by size and color to add height and texture.
- Add Statement Pieces: Choose a bold centerpiece like a sculpture or vase.
- Mix Textures and Sizes: Combine smooth, rough, and reflective surfaces for depth.
- Include Plants: Add life with real or artificial greenery.
- Group Items: Arrange objects in clusters using the rule of three.
- Vary Heights: Layer items of different heights for visual interest.
- Use Trays: Keep things organized and polished with a stylish tray.
- Consider Table Shape: Style based on your table’s shape - round, square, or rectangular.
- Add Scents: Use candles or diffusers for a cozy atmosphere.
- Create a Theme: Match your decor to your room’s overall style.
- Personalize with Items: Display meaningful objects like photos or keepsakes.
- Decorate for Seasons: Refresh your table with seasonal accents.
Key Tip: Keep 60% of the table for anchor pieces, 30% for complementary items, and 10% for accents. Leave open space for functionality. Ready to style? Let’s dive into the details!
How to style your coffee table like a pro
1. Using Decorative Books
Decorative books are a favorite tool for coffee table styling. They bring texture, color, and structure to your setup while serving as practical bases for other decor. Stylist Candy Murray recommends using books to organize and define sections of your table, creating a balanced and cohesive look [3]. Stack them by size, with the largest on the bottom, to build height and achieve a neat pyramid effect.
Pick books that match your room’s colors, vary in dimensions, and reflect your personal style or the room’s theme. Keep the stacks low enough to avoid blocking sightlines across the table. For a polished look, try the 'rule of thirds' - divide the table into three parts, using books to anchor one or two sections while keeping the rest open for other accents.
To add flair, The Spruce suggests topping a book stack with a small vase or sculpture for an effortless style boost [1]. This creates depth and makes the most of your table space.
Decorative books not only add charm but also serve as a perfect base for highlighting other items. Now, let’s dive into how eye-catching pieces can further enhance your coffee table design.
2. Adding Statement Pieces
Statement pieces are the key to making your coffee table stand out while tying together the overall look of your space. Designer Danielle Moss recommends selecting a centerpiece that grabs attention but still fits seamlessly with your room's aesthetic. These pieces work especially well when paired with stacked books, giving your table a layered, curated feel.
Pick a statement piece that matches your room's vibe - sleek metallic sculptures for a modern look, or intricate brass accents for a more classic feel. Combine it with contrasting textures, like pairing glass with wood or ceramic with metal, to add extra interest. Make sure the size of your statement piece fits the table - big enough to make an impact but not so large that it dominates the space.
Instead of placing your statement piece dead center, position it slightly off to one side for a more dynamic and natural look. For rectangular tables, try using two pieces of different heights to create movement and balance across the surface.
Keep about 70% of the table clear to avoid a cluttered appearance. This open space ensures your centerpiece shines while keeping the table functional. You can also switch out statement pieces with the seasons - think lanterns in winter or floral vases in spring - to keep things feeling new and interesting.
Once your statement piece is in place, you can start experimenting with textures and sizes to add even more depth and character to your table design.
3. Mixing Textures and Sizes
Once you’ve chosen your statement piece, it’s time to add depth and variety by playing with textures and sizes. Combining smooth, rough, and reflective surfaces can make your coffee table arrangement more visually engaging.
Start with your bold focal point, like a ceramic vase or a sculptural bowl, and position it slightly off-center. Then, build around it using medium and smaller pieces. The goal is to create an arrangement that complements your room while adding its own distinct personality.
Consider your table’s shape when arranging items. For round tables, central clusters work well. For square tables, divide items into sections. On rectangular tables, try arranging pieces in thirds. To keep things interesting, pair contrasting materials - like glass with wood, metal with fabric, or matte ceramics with glossy finishes.
Layer your items thoughtfully to create depth. Place taller pieces at the back and shorter items in front, so the arrangement doesn’t block sightlines across the room. Keep larger objects proportionate to the table size, and avoid overcrowding - it’s all about finding the balance between style and practicality.
4. Including Plants
Adding plants to your coffee table setup can bring life and charm to the space. When picking greenery, think about the table's size and how much light the room gets. This helps create a well-balanced and intentional display.
The right container can make a big difference. For taller plants like snake plants or bamboo, go for a sleek, cylindrical vase. Compact succulents or moss balls fit perfectly in low, wide bowls. These choices not only showcase the plants but also complement the overall look.
Consider your table's shape when placing plants. A single, striking plant works well on round tables, while rectangular tables benefit from a mix of heights. Pairing contrasting textures - like a rough ceramic pot with shiny succulent leaves - adds depth and visual interest, tying into the layered styling approach.
Low-maintenance plants like the ZZ plant or pothos are great choices, thriving in various light conditions. If you’d rather skip the upkeep, high-quality artificial plants from stores like Pottery Barn and West Elm can offer a realistic alternative.
Mixing plants of different heights and textures adds dimension. For instance, a tall fiddle leaf fig branch can draw the eye upward, while a trailing pothos brings softness and movement to the arrangement.
To keep things balanced, layer greenery with other decorative pieces. Try placing a small plant on top of a stack of books or pairing flowers with a ceramic item. Thoughtful groupings of plants and other items can elevate the overall design of your coffee table.
5. Arranging Items in Groups
Grouping items thoughtfully can bring structure and style to your coffee table design. By arranging objects in clusters, you can create a balanced and visually appealing setup. A popular technique is the 'rule of three,' where you combine objects of different heights - like a tall vase (10-12 inches), a medium bowl (4-6 inches), and smaller decorative pieces - for a dynamic look.
Balance plays a key role in grouping. If you place a larger item on one side, balance it out with smaller pieces on the other. Interior stylist Candy Murray offers this advice:
"Think of your coffee table as a blank canvas and divide it into sections like an artist would" [3]
When arranging, aim for a mix of style and practicality. For instance, use a decorative tray to hold functional items like remote controls or coasters, keeping them accessible yet stylish.
Here’s a quick guide for grouping items based on your table's shape:
| Table Shape | Grouping Strategy |
|---|---|
| Round | Place a central focal point with 2-3 smaller items radiating outward. |
| Rectangle | Create three evenly spaced groups along the length. |
| Square | Use four corner groupings, leaving the center open. |
Make sure to leave about 25% of the table surface clear for everyday use. One group might highlight decorative pieces, another could feature a small plant, and a third could house practical items neatly arranged in a tray. This approach keeps your table functional while adding visual appeal.
Once your groups are set, the next step is experimenting with height variations to enhance the overall flow.
6. Varying Heights
Playing with height differences brings energy to your coffee table display, making it feel layered and visually interesting. This approach draws attention to different elements and naturally guides the eye across the table.
Start with a base of shorter items, like coffee table books or decorative boxes (around 2-3 inches tall). Then, add medium-height pieces, such as small plants or ceramic bowls (4-8 inches). Finally, include taller items, like sculptural vases or candlesticks (10-12 inches), to anchor the display.
Here’s how to arrange heights effectively:
- Round tables: Place taller items in the center for balance.
- Rectangular or square tables: Spread items of varying heights evenly across the surface.
While working with different heights, make sure taller pieces don’t block conversations or TV viewing. Keep these practical tips in mind:
- Leave about 2-3 inches of space between items.
- Think about sight lines across the room.
- Choose taller pieces that match the scale of the table and room - nothing too large or overwhelming.
For a simpler look, stick to fewer items but keep the height variation. For example, pair a tall vase (10-12 inches) with a low stack of books (3-4 inches) and one small decorative object. This creates a clean, balanced arrangement without overcrowding the space.
Lastly, the shape of your coffee table plays a big role in how height variations work within your design. Understanding this connection helps you create a display that feels natural and fits seamlessly into your room.
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7. Using Trays
Trays are a great way to keep your coffee table organized and stylish. They not only add structure to your display but also help keep practical items like remotes and coasters in one place. Designers love trays because they make displays look intentional and polished while staying functional.
Pick a tray that matches your table size - ideally covering about a third to half of the table's surface. For round tables, go with circular trays that take up roughly 40% of the surface area.
| Table Size | Recommended Tray Dimensions |
|---|---|
| Small (36" or less) | 12" x 18" rectangular / 14" round |
| Medium (37-48") | 16" x 24" rectangular / 18" round |
| Large (49"+) | 20" x 30" rectangular / 24" round |
"A beautiful tray can transform remote controls and coasters from clutter into an intentional display piece" [4]
Trays give your items a defined space, making them look thoughtfully arranged. Aim to leave about 30% of the tray empty for balance, and layer items from back to front for depth. Interior stylist Candy Murray recommends placing larger items in the back and smaller ones in the front for easier access and a layered effect [3].
Switch out the items in your tray with the seasons to keep your coffee table looking fresh. Once your tray is perfectly styled, it’s time to consider how your coffee table’s shape plays into its overall design.
8. Considering Table Shape
The shape of your coffee table plays a key role in how you style it, affecting both how it looks and how functional it is. Building on ideas like grouping and height variation, let’s dive into how different table shapes can guide your design choices.
For round tables, try using three items of varying heights - a tall plant, a medium-sized accent, and lower objects. This creates a natural flow. Rectangular tables work well with the rule of thirds: place a main display slightly off-center, then balance it with smaller accents. For square tables, dividing the surface into sections and arranging items in triangular patterns tends to work best.
| Table Shape | Styling Approach | Key Elements |
|---|---|---|
| Round | Three-point grouping | Circular or soft shapes, centered display |
| Square | Sectioned styling | Divide into parts, use triangle formations |
| Rectangular | Rule of thirds | One focal point, paired with smaller items |
Interior designer Emily Henderson recommends using a rectangular tray as a foundation. Arrange complementary pieces like candles, flowers, or coasters around it for a cohesive look [2].
Now that you’ve considered table shape, let’s move on to how scents can elevate your coffee table's overall vibe while keeping it visually balanced.
9. Adding Scents
Adding scents to your coffee table can enhance its look while creating a warm, inviting vibe. Try placing items like candles, diffusers, or potpourri to bring both style and fragrance to the space.
Choose decorative holders - like marble or crystal containers for candles - and sleek, modern diffusers to match your table's design. For scents, go with light, citrusy fragrances in spring and summer, then shift to cozy notes like vanilla or amber as the weather cools.
Keep things balanced by mixing scented and unscented decor to avoid overpowering the room. Use trays to neatly group scented items, ensuring they fit seamlessly with the overall table arrangement.
For a more polished touch, pick scented pieces that also serve as decor. Arrange them thoughtfully among books, plants, or sculptural accents to enhance the table's style without clashing.
Once you've set the mood with scents, you'll be ready to focus on tying your coffee table's design into a unified theme.
10. Creating a Theme
A well-thought-out theme ties your coffee table design together, making it feel intentional and polished. By building on ideas like layering and grouping, choose a theme that complements your room's overall style. For example, in modern spaces with clean lines, you might include geometric shapes and metallic accents to match the sleek vibe.
For a modern look, combine geometric decor with metallic finishes and stick to a monochromatic color scheme. If you're going for a coastal feel, consider woven trays, seashells, and ocean-inspired colors. A rustic style works well with weathered textures and vintage finds, while a minimalist approach shines with a few carefully chosen items in a simple color palette.
When working within a theme, stick to just a few key pieces that represent your chosen style. Avoid overcrowding the table. Layering is key - modern designs might pair bold coffee table books with angular sculptures, while a coastal vibe could feature woven trays paired with a few shells or driftwood.
Height and texture add depth to your theme. For instance, a rustic setup might include a weathered wooden box, smooth ceramic vases, and linen-bound books, each contributing to the overall look.
Don’t forget practical items like remote controls - they can be tucked into stylish trays or boxes that match the theme. Add personal touches, too. A vintage camera could enhance an industrial theme, while a crystal accent might suit a glamorous setup.
Once your theme is in place, think about how personal elements can make your coffee table even more inviting.
11. Personalizing with Items
Adding personal items to your coffee table can turn it into a meaningful centerpiece. These pieces, when arranged thoughtfully, can enhance the table's look while keeping it polished and stylish.
Try adding one or two family photos in frames that match your decor. For instance, a black-and-white photo in a metallic frame can pair beautifully with other decorative accents. Travel keepsakes can also shine - think of displaying seashells in a crystal bowl or using a vintage compass as a paperweight on a stack of books.
Heirlooms, like an antique vase, can serve as standout pieces. Pair them with modern decor to create contrast, but avoid overcrowding the table. When arranging personal items, focus on balance - play with scale, maintain a cohesive color palette, and mix different textures and weights to create a visually pleasing display.
Consider using trays or containers to group smaller items. A vintage jewelry box can hold small treasures, while a lacquered tray can organize curated trinkets. Rotate these meaningful pieces occasionally to keep the arrangement fresh and engaging.
A well-personalized coffee table strikes the perfect balance between sentiment and style. Each item should have both personal meaning and visual charm, creating a display that's as heartfelt as it is eye-catching.
Once you've added your personal touches, you can finish things off by bringing in seasonal decor for a timely refresh.
12. Decorating for Seasons
Seasonal coffee table decor is a simple way to keep your space feeling fresh and in tune with the time of year. Start with a few core items like trays or bowls to serve as a base, then switch out accents to match the season.
For winter, think rich textures paired with metallics and glass for a cozy yet elegant vibe. When spring rolls around, bring in lighter touches - place fresh tulips in a clear vase or showcase pastel ceramics.
Summer decor thrives on natural elements. Add a coastal touch with items like driftwood or sea glass displayed in a modern container. As autumn approaches, create a warm atmosphere with copper, wood, and dried botanicals like pinecones or wheat stalks.
Here’s a quick seasonal guide to help you style your coffee table:
| Season | Color Palette | Key Elements | Signature Accent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter | Silver, White, Deep Blue | Metallics, Glass | Pine accents |
| Spring | Soft Pink, Sage, Yellow | Fresh flowers, Ceramics | Botanical prints |
| Summer | Aqua, Sand, Coral | Natural textures, Glass | Seashells |
| Fall | Rust, Amber, Bronze | Organic materials | Dried foliage |
For the best visual impact, arrange decor in odd numbers - groups of three or five work particularly well. Stick to updating just one or two pieces each season while keeping your base items consistent. It’s an easy and budget-friendly way to refresh your space!
Conclusion
Styling a coffee table like a pro doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about combining aesthetics with practicality while staying true to your personal style.
Start by planning thoughtfully and paying attention to proportions. A well-styled coffee table acts as both a visual centerpiece and a functional surface in your living area. Mix items of different heights, textures, and shapes to create an arrangement that’s visually interesting but not overpowering.
Use the 60-30-10 rule to guide your layout: dedicate 60% of the space to larger anchor pieces, 30% to complementary items, and 10% to smaller accents. This method helps create a balanced and intentional look without feeling cluttered.
Keep in mind, styling isn’t permanent - it should evolve with your preferences and lifestyle. Your coffee table should reflect your personality while remaining polished and practical.
Here are a few tips to keep your coffee table looking its best:
- Combine form and function thoughtfully
- Layer objects with varying heights and textures
- Avoid overcrowding by editing your decor
- Refresh the look seasonally for a new vibe
A well-styled coffee table strikes a balance between curated decor and open, usable space. Try these ideas to create a setup that’s both stylish and functional, perfectly complementing your living area.