How To Decorate A Coffee Table: 10 Ideas To Get You Started

If you’re looking for a way to spruce up your living room, why not start with the coffee table? It’s a great place to showcase your style and personality. We have 10 ideas to help get you started on decorating your coffee table. By adding plants or books and making an eye-catching centerpiece, these tips will help you make a room feel more welcoming in no time.

Credit: Nathan James Asher Mid-Century Rectangle Coffee Table

Display Some Fresh Florals

If you’re looking to add some color and vibrancy to your coffee table, fresh flowers are a great way to do it! 

A simple vase of flowers is an easy and elegant way to spruce up your coffee table. Choose a vase that complements the style of your room, or opt for something with a unique shape that stands out from the rest of your decor.

If you’re looking for something more unique than a simple vase of flowers, try arranging buckets of flowers on your coffee table. Place several small buckets filled with colorful blooms on the table in an interesting formation. This will give your coffee table a stunning focal point.

Turn It Into A Library

Transform your coffee table into a stylish library with these simple steps. 

Begin by placing your largest book at the bottom of your coffee table for stability. Then, layer two to four additional books on top in an odd number arrangement for an aesthetically pleasing look.

Select books that are related to space. This could include design or art books that match the other decor in the room, and even a few books dedicated to your hobbies or interests.

Place a vase or planter with an interesting texture and height in the center of the table.

For a warm and homey living room, add personal items to your library display. 

Make One Metallic Item The Centerpiece

If you’ve been wanting to add a bit of sparkle and shine to your coffee table, why not make one metallic item the centerpiece? Not only will it create an eye-catching focal point, but it will also give your space a touch of glamor.

For a warm, elegant look, you can go for something like a gold tray or vase. If you’re feeling bold, you can also opt for something like a large metallic sculpture or art piece.

Metallic accents can also be used in other ways on your coffee table. For example, you could use metal bookends to hold up your favorite books or use a small metallic bowl to store coins and keys. 

Layer Down A Tray

Layering down a tray is a great way to create a sense of style and elegance. A tray is an ideal way to add dimension and texture to your decor. It can also be used to contain items that might otherwise be scattered around. It’s an easy way to add texture and dimension while creating a stylish focal point in your room!

Choose Unusual Objects

If you're looking to mix things up and add some visual interest to your coffee table, consider adding some unusual items to your decor. Your space will instantly become more unique and eye-catching. Look for items that are sculptural, dramatic, or have interesting textures. 

Don't be afraid to experiment with color! A neutral palette may look nice but adding pops of color can bring your coffee table display to life. Try adding colorful accents like bright flowers or bold artwork for an extra statement-making touch.

Get Scale And Proportion Right

Scale and proportion are key. It's important to choose items that are in proportion to each other and the size of the table. 

A great way to get an idea of the size and scale of items for your coffee table is to use painter's tape to mark out where potential pieces would go on the floor. 

To create a contrast, make sure you mix up shapes. For example, pair a round tray with a rectangular coffee table.

Scale is an important factor when it comes to choosing items for your coffee table. Everything should be in proportion with the size of the table and one another. 

Consider the height of items when adding them to your coffee table. Sabina Miller, head of buying at Heal's, suggests keeping approximately two inches lower than the seat height on your sofa and 16 inches from the edge of the coffee table when styling it up.

When styling your coffee table, remember that less is more! Too many items can make it look cluttered and overwhelming, so try not to go overboard with decor pieces.

Style With Candles

Candles can be used to add a touch of warmth and atmosphere to any room, but they really come into their own when styling up a coffee table. Sometimes it’s not about the candle itself but the container used to display them. Gold or silver vessels work well for a more glamorous look, while ceramic or glass containers can give off a relaxed boho vibe. 

For extra interest, choose different heights for the candle holders. Then light at least one of the candles before guests come over so their eye is drawn to the coffee table, and the room smells fresh and fragrant. 

Incorporate Artwork

Incorporating artwork into your coffee table setup can be a great way to add color and texture to your living room. 

You can hang framed pieces on the wall behind the table, lean them against a wall or sofa, or simply place them directly onto the surface of your coffee table. 

Create A Focal Point

A well-styled coffee table can become the focal point of any room and can be a great conversation starter. 

To create a perfect focal point, consider scale and proportion. It is best to use one large item rather than several small items, as this will look more visually pleasing. 

Adding layers to your coffee table is also a great way to create depth and dimension, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and materials.

Organize With DIY Projects

Organizing your coffee table doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some DIY ideas to get you started:

• Create a chalkboard tray for your coffee table and use it as a message center for the family. 
• If you like entertaining, why not build a beverage holder for your coffee table?
• Keep your favorite magazines and books tidy with a DIY magazine holder. 
• Place some baskets on your coffee table and use them to store remotes and other items that you want to keep handy but out of the way.

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Now that you’ve seen some of the best ideas for styling your coffee table, it’s time to take action and create your own unique look! Whether you decide to go with fresh flowers, a metallic centerpiece, or a DIY project, the possibilities are endless. The key is to find items that you’re passionate about and that reflect your style. Have fun with it and don’t be afraid of experimenting. With a few simple decorations, you can make your coffee table the centerpiece of your living room!