A coffee table might seem like just another piece of furniture, but it can make a big difference in how your living room looks and feels. It’s where you rest your coffee, display your favorite books, or even show off a little of your personality. When styled well, it adds charm and makes the room feel complete.
I remember a friend once walked into my living room and said, “Your coffee table looks so pretty, but I can still put my drink here without worrying!” That’s the goal—a mix of style and function. A good coffee table setup doesn’t just look nice; it makes the space more inviting and practical.
So, how do you style it? Don’t worry—I’ll show you how to make your coffee table look great without overthinking it. Let’s turn it into the stylish centerpiece your living room deserves!
Related articles –
- How To Choose A Coffee Table For Your Living Room? Here’s The Ultimate Guide!
- 25 Super Luxurious Fall Coffee Table Decor Ideas
- 35 Beautiful And Chic Round Table Decor Ideas You Should Try
Key Principles of Coffee Table Styling
Styling a coffee table is easy if you stick to a few simple tips. It’s all about balance, functionality, and adding a bit of personality.
Image by jay_lina_decor
1. Balance: Mix Heights, Textures, and Shapes: If everything on your table is the same height or shape, it can look dull. Mix things up! Place a tall vase next to a small candle or a round tray with a square box. Different heights and textures keep things interesting.
Nate Berkus – Celebrity interior designer: “Layering different textures and materials, such as combining a metal tray with ceramic objects, adds depth and interest to your coffee table.”
2. Functionality: Leave Space for Everyday Use: Your coffee table isn’t just for decoration—you need space for coffee mugs, snacks, or your TV remote. Don’t overload it with decor. Use a tray to keep things tidy and make room for the practical stuff.
Image by mymidwestdesign
3. Layering: Create Depth with Item: Layering means stacking or combining items to make the table look more put-together. For example, place a candle on top of a stack of books or add a small plant inside a tray. It adds depth and makes your table look intentional.
4. Color Harmony: Match with Your Room’s Tones: Stick to colors that work with your living room. If your space has neutral tones, choose decor that blends in. Want a pop of color? Add a bright book or vase to stand out.
Essential Items to Include on a Coffee Table
Styling a coffee table doesn’t mean you need to buy fancy decor. A few well-chosen items can transform it into a beautiful and functional centerpiece. Here are the essentials that always work—and make your table look effortlessly put together.
1. Books or Magazines: Add Style and Personality: A stack of books or magazines instantly adds character. They’re not just decor—they tell a story about your interests. Love photography? Pick coffee table book with stunning visuals. A fan of travel? Display a book about beautiful destinations.
Emily Henderson, Stylist, TV host, and author: “Books provide a great foundation for layering, and they also add color, interest and show insight into your hobbies and personality.”
Image by _styledbystephanie
2. Trays: Organize Items and Create Zones: A tray is a coffee table’s best friend. It keeps everything organized, adds structure, and makes the whole table look intentional. Plus, it’s super practical. Need to clear the table for game night? Just pick up the tray and move it.
Think of trays as mini “stages” to decorate your coffee table—candles, small bowls, or plants all look better corralled together.
3. Greenery or Flowers: Bring Life to the Table: Nothing freshens up a space like a little greenery or flowers. A small plant, a vase with fresh blooms, or even faux greenery can make the table feel alive.
Shea McGee, Founder of Studio McGee: “Decorative objects are a great way to add some visual interest to your coffee table; they often are both tactile as well as pleasing to the eye.”
Image by guyiifurniture
4. Candles: Add Ambiance and Scent: Candles are the secret to making your living room feel cozy and inviting. They add a soft glow that’s perfect for movie nights or quiet evenings. And if they’re scented, even better. A subtle fragrance can make your space feel like a relaxing retreat.
Just make sure to choose candles that match the scale of your table—nothing too tiny or too big.
5. Sculptural Decor: Personal Touches: Sculptural decor, like a small art piece, figurine, or ceramic bowl, is where you can really show off your style. It adds personality and makes your coffee table uniquely yours.
Step-by-Step Styling Process
Styling a coffee table doesn’t have to feel like solving a puzzle. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a beautiful, functional centerpiece in no time. (Yes, it’s really that easy.)
Step 1: Start with a Tray or Base
Think of a tray as your starting point—the foundation that anchors your decor. It organizes your items, adds structure, and instantly makes the table look neat. Plus, trays are lifesavers if you ever need to clear the table quickly.
Sophie Robinson – UK-based interior designer: “When styling a footstool or coffee table, consider using a tray to group items, making it easy to clear the surface when needed.”
Tip: For round coffee tables, try a square or rectangular tray to add contrast.
Image by making_highview_home
Step 2: Add Books or Flat Elements
Books are more than just something to read—they’re perfect for adding layers and personality. Stack a couple of your favorite hardcovers or glossy magazines. They create height, act as a “platform” for smaller items, and show off your style.
Tip: Stick to 2-3 books with interesting covers or colors that complement your living room.
Step 3: Incorporate a Statement Piece
Now it’s time for the star of the show—your statement piece. This could be a vase, a sculpture, or even a unique bowl. The idea is to choose something that stands out without overwhelming the table.
Image by to_mimishousewego
Ask yourself: Does this piece make me smile when I look at it? If yes, you’ve nailed it.
Step 4: Include Greenery or Flowers for Height
Plants or flowers breathe life into your coffee table. They add height, freshness, and a natural element that softens the look. A simple vase with fresh flowers or a small potted plant does wonders. If you’re not great at keeping plants alive (guilty), faux greenery works just as well.
I once used a tiny succulent because it was impossible to kill—win-win. Even something as simple as a single leafy stem in a glass jar can make a big difference.
Image by blancmarineboutique
Tip: Choose a vase or planter that fits the vibe of your space—glass for something sleek, ceramic for a cozy look.
Step 5: Balance Out the Look with Smaller Accessories
Finally, fill in any gaps with smaller items like candles, coasters, or decorative objects. This is where you can add the finishing touches that tie everything together. Just be careful not to overcrowd the table—less is often more.
Shea McGee – Founder of Studio McGee: “Incorporate decorative objects to add visual interest. Items like a door stopper, paperweight, or a pretty deck of cards are both functional and aesthetic.”
Tip: Step back and take a look at your table. Does it feel balanced? Adjust as needed. A little tweaking goes a long way.
Image by studioasti
Pro Tips for Painting Ceilings
1. Use the Right Type of Paint: Flat or matte paint is the best choice for ceilings. It hides flaws like cracks or bumps and gives a smooth, clean look. Avoid glossy paints—they reflect light and highlight imperfections. Stick to flat finishes for a professional result.
2. Proper Prep Work: Good prep work makes all the difference. Clean the ceiling to remove dust and stains. Use primer if you’re covering dark colors or stains for an even base. Tape off the edges where the ceiling meets the walls to keep lines neat. Skipping these steps can leave you with messy results.
Image by nobhillstyle
3. Pick the Right Tools: A roller with an extension pole is the easiest way to paint ceilings. It saves you from climbing up and down a ladder constantly. For smooth coverage, use a roller with a medium nap (3/8 to 1/2 inch). If painting a large room, you can use a sprayer—but cover everything to avoid paint splatters. Always load your roller lightly to prevent drips.
4. Test Colors Before Committing: Paint a small section of the ceiling first and check it throughout the day. Natural and artificial light can make colors look very different. Testing the paint saves you from choosing a color you regret later.
Image by houseoncardenpark
With the right prep, tools, and a little patience, you’ll have a ceiling that looks fresh, clean, and well done. Simple steps go a long way!
If you love these ideas, don’t forget to pin the above image to your “Home and Garden” board.
