How to Style a Coffee Table in 5 Easy Steps

Coffee Table Design

A coffee table is more than just a place to put down your cup of tea, it’s the centrepiece of your living room. When styled thoughtfully, it can instantly elevate your space, tie your décor together and make your home look magazine-ready. Whether you’re staging your home to sell, or simply want to enjoy a beautiful living area, these five steps will help you create a polished look without fuss.

Step 1: Start with a clean slate when designing your coffee table

Before you begin styling, clear everything off your coffee table. Wipe down the surface and, if needed, polish or refresh the finish. This gives you a blank canvas to work with and helps you see the table’s shape and scale clearly.

Tip: If you’re considering a new coffee table, choose one that fits the proportions of your seating area. A table that’s two-thirds the length of your sofa usually looks best.

Step 2: Choose a theme or colour palate

Having a cohesive colour scheme will make your table look intentional rather than cluttered. Pick two or three colours that already feature in your room, perhaps an accent shade from your cushions or rug and repeat them in your accessories. You can also choose a theme, like “coastal chic” or “modern minimal” to guide your styling choices.

Step 3: Anchor the Layout with a Tray or Stack of Books

A tray or a neat stack of coffee table books creates an instant focal point. It also helps corral smaller items, making the table look neat even with multiple objects on it. Books work especially well to add height and texture, and trays make it easy to move everything if you need extra space.

Styling rule of thumb: Larger tables can handle a big tray or two stacks of books; smaller tables may look best with just one anchor piece.

Step 4: Layer Decorative Accessories

Now add personality. Mix objects of different heights and textures for example, a small plant, a candle in a sculptural holder, and a decorative bowl. Group items in threes or odd numbers for the most visually pleasing effect. The contrast between smooth and rough textures (ceramic, wood, glass, metal) creates depth and interest.

Examples:

– Small vase with fresh flowers or faux stems

– A sculptural candle holder

– A decorative box for remotes or coasters

Step 5: Leave Space for Real Life

It’s easy to overcrowd a coffee table, but practicality matters. Make sure there’s room for drinks, snacks or a laptop. Step back and assess your arrangement from a distance to ensure it feels balanced but not busy. Adjust heights and spacing until it looks harmonious from all seating angles.

Bonus Tip: Seasonal swaps keep your table fresh, for instance, swap flowers for pinecones and candles in winter, or lighter accessories in spring.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using items that are all the same height creates a flat look.

• Cluttering the table with too many small items.

• Ignoring how the table relates to your sofa and rug.

Styling a coffee table is about balancing beauty with function. With just a few carefully chosen pieces and these five steps, you can turn your coffee table into a stylish focal point that reflects your personality and impresses guests.