Styling a Coffee Table: Books, Trays, and Decorative Objects

A well-styled coffee table can elevate your living room, acting as both a functional and decorative centerpiece. By combining key elements like books, trays, and decorative objects, you can create a space that’s both practical and visually appealing.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving a perfectly styled coffee table.

Why Coffee Table Styling Matters

Your coffee table is more than just a place to rest your remote or coffee mug; it’s a focal point that can express your style and set the tone for your space. A thoughtfully styled coffee table:

Find Perfect Pieces to Complete Your Interior Style!

Bestseller N° 1
Homedics Tabletop Water Fountain, Home Décor Soothing Sound Machine - Automatic Pump, Deep Basin &...
  • Decorative Tabletop Fountain: Bring a calming, zen, and...
  • Easy to Use: Quiet, built-in, submersible pump automatically...
  • Artistic Design: Asian-inspired 3-tier design; unique...
SaleBestseller N° 2
Furinno Turn-N-Tube 5 Tier Corner Display Rack Multipurpose Shelving Unit, 1-Pack, Espresso/Black
  • Simple stylish design yet Functional and suitable for any...
  • Material: engineered wood, PVC tubes.
  • Great storage unit for bathroom, closet, home office, living...
SaleBestseller N° 3
QEEIG Floating Shelves for Wall Bathroom Shelf Bedroom Kitchen Living Room Hanging Book Shelves...
  • Material: Medium Density Fiberboard
  • More Depth: 6.7"D x 15.7"W x 1.5"H. 6.7" depth suitable for...
  • Sturdy Support: Enhanced steel brackets hold up to 25 lbs,...

Make Cleaning Easy with These Top Picks!

SaleBestseller N° 1
Bomves Electric Spin Scrubber, Cordless Cleaning Brush Scrubber for Home, 8 Replaceable Brush...
  • 【POWERFUL &CONVENIENT】: Say goodbye to traditional...
  • 【3 ADJUSTABLE SIZES & CORDLESS】: We've updated the brush...
  • 【PROTECTION DESIGN】: Electric spin scrubber adopts a...
SaleBestseller N° 1
O-Cedar EasyWring Microfiber Spin Mop, Bucket Floor Cleaning System, Red, Gray, Standard
  • HANDS-FREE WRINGING: Our exclusive mop bucket design...
  • MACHINE WASHABLE: The EasyWring Microfiber Mop Head is...
  • DEEP CLEANING MICROFIBER: O-Cedar's EasyWring Microfiber...
SaleBestseller N° 1
Hefty Ultra Strong Tall Kitchen Trash Bags, Lavender & Sweet Vanilla Scent, 13 Gallon, 80 Count
  • 13 Gallon Tall Kitchen Garbage Bags-This package contains 80...
  • Toughness You Can Trust-Hefty's strongest tall kitchen...
  • Arm and Hammer Odor Control-Patented odor control, paired...
  • Enhances the overall aesthetic of your room.
  • Reflects your personality and interests.
  • Balances functionality and design.

Key Elements of a Styled Coffee Table

A beautifully styled coffee table typically includes three main elements: books, trays, and decorative objects. Let’s break down how to use each effectively.

1. Books: A Foundation of Style

Books are the cornerstone of coffee table styling. They add height, texture, and a touch of personality. Choose books that align with your interests or complement your room’s color palette.

  • Choose Oversized Books: Large, hardcover books with striking covers work best.
  • Stack with Purpose: Create stacks of two or three books. Use these as a base for smaller decorative items.
  • Incorporate Themes: Opt for books about art, fashion, travel, or photography for a timeless look.

2. Trays: Organizing with Elegance

Trays are both functional and decorative, offering a way to organize your coffee table while adding an extra layer of style.

  • Select the Right Size: Your tray should fit proportionally to your table, leaving space for other elements.
  • Material Matters: Metal, wood, and mirrored trays each bring a different vibe—choose one that complements your decor.
  • Group Items: Use trays to gather smaller items like candles, coasters, or vases, keeping the table clutter-free.

3. Decorative Objects: Adding Personality

This is where your creativity shines! When carefully curated, decorative objects add interest and make your table unique.

  • Natural Elements: For warmth and texture, incorporate a small potted plant, a vase of fresh flowers, or even a bowl of seasonal fruit.
  • Sculptural Pieces: Abstract objects, figurines, or unique artifacts create visual intrigue.
  • Candles: Scented candles look beautiful and make your space feel cozy and inviting.

Tips for Balancing Your Design

When styling a coffee table, balance is key. Use these tips to create a harmonious look:

  • Vary Heights and Textures: Combine tall, medium, and short objects for visual interest.
  • Stick to a Color Scheme: Limit your palette to 2–3 complementary colors to avoid overwhelming the space.
  • Leave Negative Space: Don’t overcrowd the table; space allows each item to shine.
  • Rotate Seasonally: Swap out decor elements to reflect the time of year, like autumnal tones or fresh spring flowers.

Examples of Styled Coffee Tables

To inspire you, here are a few classic combinations:

  1. Minimalist Chic: A single tray with a candle, a succulent, and one stack of neutral-toned books.
  2. Eclectic Style: Layer colorful books, a brass tray, and a bold sculptural object.
  3. Nature-Inspired: A woven tray with a small plant, natural wood coasters, and a ceramic vase.

Styling your coffee table doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By focusing on books, trays, and decorative objects, you can create a design that’s both practical and stylish. Remember, this space is a reflection of you—have fun experimenting and let your personality shine!

Now, grab some books and a tray, and start creating your perfect coffee table setup!

Did you find this post Useful or Inspiring? Save THIS PIN to your HOME Board on Pinterest! 

😍 Follow us on Flipboard 👇🏼


Flipboard
Click Here!

More Home Tips 👇🏼👇🏼

Go up