Styling your coffee table is a vital aspect of any living room. Often the last piece to consider, a well-styled coffee table can become the centerpiece of the room, so it's essential to get it right.
Here are some effective coffee table styling tips from our design experts. Following a few simple guidelines can ensure your coffee table looks stunning while serving its purpose, making it a highlight of your living area.
Creative Coffee Table Styling Tips
It's important for your coffee table to adapt to various uses. From holding drinks to organizing paperwork, these design tips will help you strike the right balance.
1. Keep It Minimal
While it may seem odd to suggest minimalism in a styling article, practicality is key. Even elegant spaces like this one by Kit Kemp require functionality. Aim to make your coffee table visually appealing while leaving space for everyday items.
As Kit Kemp notes, 'The surfaces of generous coffee tables make them captivating.' If you have a beautiful tabletop, let it shine through.
Consider embracing the coffee table book trend for a stylish yet unobtrusive decor choice.
2. Use Curves for Contrast
Cortney Bishop emphasizes comfort in living room layouts, and a round coffee table can enhance sociability, much like a circular dining table.
For added uniqueness, consider vintage pieces: 'Vintage is gold. Offer something intriguing that stands out,' says Cortney.
3. Style with a Tray
If your coffee table serves as a footstool or workspace, using a tray can keep your styling focused. A tray allows for easy rearrangement and enhances the table's visual impact.
4. Embrace Simplicity
Simplicity is the essence of effective room styling. A clutter-free coffee table promotes relaxation and clarity of mind.
Let your room's theme guide your table's look. If the overall decor is busy, keep the table minimalist, and vice versa. Store books underneath and display a few cherished items on top for a balanced approach.
5. Experiment with Heights
Your coffee table can influence the proportions of your room. For low ceilings, choose a lower coffee table, but consider a two-level table design for added interest, as seen in this room by Elicyon.
6. Get the Scale Right
Regardless of your room's color scheme, consider scale in your design when styling your coffee table. A good rule is to ensure that items on the table don't exceed a third of its height.
Sue Jones from OKA advises that minimal styling, with just a few decorative objects, is often enough. Let the table's beauty shine without overwhelming it.
7. Maximize Texture and Shape
For a cohesive look, seamlessly integrate your coffee table with your room's design. Clara Ewart from Kitesgrove suggests using neutral tones and natural materials for a table that complements without dominating the space.
Keep your styling minimal with just a tray and a couple of bowls that echo the colors in your decor.
8. Introduce an Accent Color
Accent colors can enhance furniture as well. Jen and Mar from Interior Fox suggest using smaller furniture pieces to make a statement, especially in modern, minimalist settings.
Black finishes contrast beautifully against lighter backgrounds, grounding the overall design. Display a few carefully chosen items like greenery or a scented candle for a chic yet relaxed vibe.
9. Make a Bold Statement
Here's a two-in-one styling tip: divide your coffee table into three sections. You can fill each section with items or leave one clear. Include a standout piece in one area, like a striking vase or a stack of books, to draw attention.
10. Incorporate Fabric, Color, and Pattern
Don't limit your styling to what's on top of the table. Consider the materials of the table itself. A marble top or upholstered footstool can add softness and visual interest, enhancing your room's overall appeal.
Tips for a Stunning Coffee Table
'Coffee table styling is the finishing touch a living room,' says a design expert. Here are four essential tips to avoid common mistakes:
- Mix larger items like coffee table books with smaller decor for balance.
- Avoid excessive small items that create clutter.
- Prioritize practicality; ensure there's room for everyday items like drinks or books.
- Make it feel inviting and lived-in with personal touches.
Styling a Coffee Table with a Shelf
When styling a coffee table with a shelf, aim for a neat look. Keep the top uncluttered while using the shelf for storage to maintain a tidy appearance.
Styling a Round Coffee Table
Round coffee tables can be styled by grouping items on a tray or arranging them in a triangular layout, using a tall item, a medium piece, and a smaller one for balance.
Best Coffee Maker
The top-rated coffee maker is the Breville BES990BSS The Oracle Touch, as noted by our team of reviewers.
