5 EASY Styling Tips for Your Coffee Table
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How to Style a Coffee Table
Your coffee table is more than just a place to dump your remote and half-empty mugs. It’s the centerpiece of your living room—the spot that ties the whole space together.
Let’s give it the love it deserves with these five easy and fun styling tips.
1. Start with a Tray (Your Secret Weapon)
A tray is like the ultimate coffee table hack. It keeps everything looking intentional instead of random. Use it to corral smaller items like candles, coasters, or a mini plant. Bonus: it makes cleaning up a breeze when you need to clear the table in a hurry.
Pro Tip: Choose a tray that contrasts with your table—a wooden tray on a glass table or a sleek metal one on a rustic surface.
Pictured above: Pedestal Wood Coffee Table from Hearth & Hand™ with Magnolia
2. Layer, Layer, Layer
Think of your coffee table like a well-dressed outfit. You need layers to create depth and interest. Stack a couple of coffee table books, add a small sculpture or decorative box on top, and finish with something soft, like a beaded garland or a cozy fabric accent.
Pro Tip: Odd numbers work best. Group items in threes for a balanced, professional look.
Pictured above: Tangkula 2-Tier Acacia Wood Coffee Table from Target
3. Bring in Greenery
Nothing breathes life into a space like a little greenery. A small plant, vase of fresh flowers, or even some faux stems can make your coffee table feel vibrant and inviting.
Pro Tip: If you’re worried about keeping plants alive, go for low-maintenance options like succulents or high-quality faux plants.
Pictured above: LuxenHome Brown Wood Fluted Round Coffee Table
4. Mix Textures and Materials
Avoid a flat, boring look by mixing different textures and materials. Pair a glossy ceramic vase with a rough woven basket, or a shiny metallic candleholder with a matte stone bowl. The contrast keeps things interesting.
Pro Tip: Aim for at least three different materials on your table for maximum impact.
Pictured above: Ogden Burled Wood Coffee Table from Threshold™ designed with Studio McGee
5. Add a Personal Touch
Your home table should feel like you. Include something personal, like a framed photo, a quirky trinket from your travels, or a small piece of art you love. These little touches make your space unique.
Pro Tip: Rotate your personal items seasonally to keep things fresh.
Pictured above: Rounded Rectangle Wood Table Frame Natural from Threshold™
Golden Rule: Keep It Functional
While styling is fun, remember that your coffee table still needs to work for your life. Leave space for everyday essentials like remotes, snacks, or even your feet (we won’t judge).
Pictured above: Shagreen Box with Lid – Threshold™
More Simple Decor Ideas:
- How to Decorate with Benches
- Tips for Organizing a Small Bathroom
- How to Hang Curtains Like a Pro
- DIY Fall Tablescape
Share your favorite styling tip in the comments! I’d love to hear how you style your space!
I recently purchased a coffee table for my living room area, and I’m thinking of decorating it with gemstone trees so it won’t appear so dull. Your idea of placing fun board games on top of the table seems great! Although, I also agree with you that low trays and baskets will look good on it as well.
Those are great ideas too!