How to Style Your Coffee Table Like a Pro

August 22, 2025 Decolide Shopify

Your coffee table is more than just a surface for placing your coffee mug or TV remote—it’s the centerpiece of your living room. Styled correctly, it can elevate your décor and reflect your personality with luxurious furniture like coffee tables. But achieving that “Pinterest-perfect” look requires balance, creativity, and a few insider tricks.

In this blog, we’ll break down step-by-step ideas on how to style your coffee table like a pro, complete with tips on décor, arrangement, and balance.

Why Styling a Coffee Table Matters

Creates a focal point—a beautifully styled coffee table immediately draws the eye.
Adds personality—Showcasing your interests through books, candles, or artifacts tells your story.
Balances function & beauty – Practical yet stylish arrangements ensure your coffee table isn’t just decorative but usable too.

Coffee Table Styling Essentials

Here’s a quick overview of essential elements to keep in mind:

Element	Purpose	Example Ideas
Books	Add sophistication & height	Coffee table books, novels, art guides
Trays	Create structure & organization	Wooden tray, metallic tray
Greenery	Add freshness & life	Small plants, succulents, fresh flowers
Candles	Warmth & ambiance	Scented candles, pillar candles
Sculptures/Objects	Personality & artistic touch	Ceramic figurines, glass décor pieces
Functional Items	Keep practicality intact	Coasters, remote organizer

Step-by-Step Guide to Styling Your Coffee Table

1. Start with a Clean Slate

Clear everything off and wipe your table. A clean surface gives you space to rethink your arrangement.

2. Use the Rule of Three

The rule of three is frequently used by designers to achieve equilibrium. For a unified look, group items in threes (a plant, a candle, and a stack of books).

3. Mix Heights and Textures

Avoid flatness by mixing different heights and textures. Pair a tall vase with a low tray and medium-sized sculpture.

4. Add Greenery for Freshness

Plants or flowers instantly bring life to your setup. Fresh blooms in a glass vase or a mini succulent in a ceramic pot make a big difference.

5. Layer with Trays

Trays organize smaller items like candles and coasters while adding texture. Go for wood, marble, or metallic finishes depending on your interior style.

6. Showcase Your Personality

Use your coffee table to highlight what you love—stack your favorite books, display travel souvenirs, or include a decorative bowl with collected shells.

7. Balance Function with Style

Don’t overcrowd the table. Leave space for practical use, like placing a coffee cup or snack bowl.

8. Refresh Seasonally

Switch out items according to seasons—flowers in spring, shells in summer, and warm candles in winter—for a fresh look year-round.

Styling Ideas Based on Coffee Table Shapes

Different coffee table shapes require different styling approaches:

Table Shape	Styling Tip	Example Setup
Rectangular	Use symmetry or two separate vignettes	Tray and books on one side, plant and candle on other
Round	Stick to one central arrangement	Tall vase in center and books & candles around
Square	Divide into four sections for balance	One section per item: tray, plant, candle, books
Oval	Use elongated items for flow	A long tray with a variety of decorations and candles

Quick Dos and Don’ts

Do’s

Mix textures (wood, glass, metal).
Keep balance in scale and height.
Add at least one natural element (plant/flower).

Don’ts

Overcrowd the table.
Use only items of the same height.
Forget functionality.

Bringing It All Together

A coffee table is the heart of your living room, and styling it is easier than you think. By mixing books, trays, greenery, and personal touches—while keeping balance in mind—you can create a polished, professional look without much effort. Remember, the key is to reflect your personality while maintaining functionality.