Your coffee table isn’t just a functional piece, it’s the centrepiece of your living room. When styled well, it pulls your décor together, creating a balanced and inviting space. Whether you prefer minimalist chic or layered luxury, here are five easy ways to style your coffee table like a designer.
1. Start with a Tray
A tray anchors your items and gives your table structure. It keeps things neat and creates a sense of order. Choose:
- Marble or metal trays for a modern look.
- Wood or rattan trays for warmth and texture.
- A mirrored tray if you want to add light and glamour.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to change trays seasonally — a sleek black tray in winter and a woven rattan tray in summer can instantly refresh the mood of your space.
2. Add Height with Books
Coffee table books aren’t just for reading — they add height and layers. Stack two or three in complementary colours, then top them with a candle or small sculpture. Stick to design, fashion, or travel books for a stylish look.
Pro tip: Use oversized books if your table is large, or slimmer volumes for smaller tables. Playing with proportions makes your styling feel intentional.
3. Introduce Greenery
Plants and flowers bring life to any table. Options include:
- A small vase with fresh seasonal flowers.
- A low arrangement of succulents.
- A sculptural plant like a monstera leaf in a glass vase.
Pro tip: Rotate greenery with the seasons — tulips in spring, hydrangeas in summer, eucalyptus in winter. It keeps your table feeling fresh year-round. Use artificial flowers and plants for set and forget style.
4. Balance with Decorative Objects
Choose two or three statement pieces to showcase your personality. Think:
- A ceramic bowl.
- A sculptural ornament.
- A cluster of candles.
Tip: use odd numbers (3 or 5 items) — it feels more natural than symmetry.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to mix high and low. A designer object can sit beautifully next to a treasured travel find or handmade piece.
5. Layer Textures & Materials
The best coffee tables mix materials. Combine glossy ceramics with matte stone, glass with wood, or metal with fabric. This creates contrast and visual interest without clutter.
Pro tip: If your table itself is made of a bold material (like marble or glass), keep your accessories simple so the surface remains the star.
Bonus Tips – Taking Your Styling Further
Seasonal Swaps
Switch out small elements to match the season:
- Spring/Summer → bright flowers, woven textures, citrus-scented candles.
- Autumn/Winter → warm tones, chunky candles, layered throws nearby.
Styling for Small vs Large Tables
- Small tables → keep accessories minimal, using one strong statement object and a plant for balance.
- Large tables → divide the surface visually into sections, each with its own mini arrangement (e.g. tray + books + greenery).
Creating a Cohesive Look
Tie your coffee table styling into the rest of the room. Match metallic finishes to your lighting, echo your sofa’s colours in your accessories, or repeat a texture (like linen or leather) elsewhere in the space.
Quick Styling Rules to Remember
- Less is more, avoid overloading the surface.
- Stick to a colour palette that matches your room.
- Vary height and scale for balance.
- Refresh your styling seasonally for a new look.
Make It Yours
Styling your coffee table is about more than decoration — it’s about creating a focal point that feels personal and inviting. By layering trays, books, greenery, and decorative objects, and adding seasonal touches, you can transform your table into a curated centrepiece that tells your story.
👉 Browse our designer coffee table collection to find the perfect piece for your home.
