Decorating a Coffee Table: Make It Look Amazing Without Overthinking
Ever look at your coffee table and feel like it’s missing something? You’re not alone! Decorating a coffee table can feel overwhelming.
Your coffee table is more than just a spot to set down your morning coffee — it’s the centerpiece of your living room and a perfect opportunity to show off your style. It doesn’t matter if you prefer something minimal and modern or layered and cozy; a well-styled coffee table can change the vibe of your entire space.
Decorating a coffee table might seem tricky at first, but I’ve got some simple, creative tips to help you style your coffee table in a way that’s both beautiful and family-friendly.
Visual Rules to Keep in Mind
Whatever you decide, try to keep these concepts in mind:
Start with a Clean Slate
When deciding what to do with your coffee table, the first thing you should do is clear the space. Give yourself a blank canvas and see what you want to add back in. Also, don’t be afraid to purchase different items to try various combinations. Then, return what you don’t want to keep.
Sometimes paralysis can take hold when trying to decorate because you don’t want to make the wrong decision. I am guilty of that! But if you go in with the mindset that you’re going to try out different setups until you find what you like, you are getting the ball rolling.
The Design Rule of Three
There is a rule of clustering items in odd numbers. From landscaping to decor, you find this rule everywhere. Designing with three items will create a sense of visual balance.
You should try decorating a coffee table with this in mind. Don’t feel like you have to stick to three of the same item! You can mix it up in different ways. It can be three (or an odd number) of the same type of item (like three vases), or you can choose three different items, like:
- Something tall (like a vase, candle, or statue)
- Something low (a decorative tray or stack of books)
- Something with texture (a woven basket or small plant).
Add Books
I love the look of books on display in my living room!
Books are a decorator’s best friend. Stacking a few can add height, while the different materials can add texture and color. Heck, you can even show personality through your book choice and get some conversations going with your friends.
Decorators also love to use books as a base by stacking 2-3 books and then topping them with a decorative object. Try it out!
Bring in Natural Elements
Nature goes with everything!
Bring nature indoors by adding fresh flowers or greenery to your table. This adds a fresh, vibrant, natural element to a table, softens hard edges, breaks up monotony, and introduces a calming color palette.
You can also switch out your choice seasonally. For example, you can add pine stems in the colder months and then switch them out for hydrangeas when the warm weather comes.
If you don’t want to worry about having to replace your flowers or branches each week, there are beautiful faux alternatives that still offer the visual beauty of nature but last!
Use Trays to Anchor Your Decor
A tray keeps small decor items looking tidy. Trays are a great addition to a coffee table because they help keep your display organized by grouping items together. Otherwise, your table can look overwhelming.
They do this by providing visual structure, adding a sense of intentionality to your design. Plus, they’re a perfect base to layer in different decor (like candles, books, and small storage boxes for remotes or tiny toys). Having your decor on a tray also makes it easy to move if your toddler decides your perfectly styled table is their new racecar track.
Throw in Personal Touches
Family photos, sentimental objects, or travel souvenirs help make the space feel like home. It takes the space and transforms it from looking like a staged home to your home.
Practical Can Meet Pretty
Your house is where you live (of course, right?). It’s important that you don’t overdo the visual, and remember the function. What can you include?
Storage boxes: I love storage boxes for this purpose. They hold my remotes and all the little things the kids love to leave around.
Coasters: Coasters are incorporated in my design because I love having my morning coffee while cozy on the couch. It protects my table while being incorporated into my design.
With all of the beautiful options out there, functionality doesn’t have to be sacrificed in your design. The living room is one of the most used rooms in the house - celebrate that!
{Related Post: Inexpensive Home Organization Ideas: Budget-Friendly Tips for a Tidy Home}
Last Thoughts
A beautifully decorated coffee table is a wonderful addition to your living room, but the most important rule is that you love the way it looks! Have fun and let your personality shine through. The tips above are only that - tips! If you love something different, that’s all that matters.
Have fun making your space your own. Try experimenting with different combinations until you look at it and love what you see. It needs to fit your lifestyle!
Your coffee table doesn’t need to be perfect — it just needs to feel good to you. Little by little, you’re creating a home that’s beautiful, functional, and full of heart. You've got this!
This post was all about decorating a coffee table.
