How To Style a Coffee Table Like a Pro: Easy Tips for a Beautiful, Functional Look
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Styling a coffee table might seem like small detail, but done right, it can completely elevate a room. Whether you’re going for a layered look or something clean and simple, the right mix of objects can turn your table into a real focal point.
In this post, I’m sharing my simple steps to styling any coffee table like a pro!
Choose the Right Coffee Table for Your Space and Lifestyle.
Your coffee table is one of the most-used pieces in your living room, and it sets the tone for everything you layer on top. Before we dive into styling, it’s important to make sure the table itself is the right fit.
There are essentially two parts to determining the right size coffee table for your space.
First, consider your lifestyle and how you plan to use the piece. Are you looking for something purely decorative, or do you need a table that can hold drinks, serve guests, or offer extra storage?
Once you know how you plan to use the piece, it’s time to consider scale and proportion. Simply put, the table should feel balanced within the room. This means it should complement the surrounding furniture while also leaving enough space to move comfortably around it.
>> More On Getting Scale And Proportion Right <<
In my own home, I knew I wanted a coffee table large enough to display a variety of collected decor, but it also had to be functional. We didn’t have room for side tables at either end of the sofa, so the coffee table also needed to be able to safely hold drinks. And I do mean safely—we have a large, tall dog whose wagging tail can literally clear surfaces, so finding a table with enough space (and stability) to survive his happy tail was essential.
Given the scale and layout of our living room, I wanted a table that was roughly 4 ft. x 4 ft. I searched endlessly for the right piece, but just couldn’t find something to meet our needs at a price point I was comfortable spending, so we opted to build our own.
→ My key takeaway: Choose a coffee table that fits your space, works with your furniture, and suits how you live.
→ Bonus tip: When you’re searching for something specific like we were, remember that you have options. If you’re handy, building your own is always an option. You can also pair two identical coffee tables side by side for a more substantial look. Nesting tables are another great solution, especially if you need flexibility and mobility in the layout.
Start with a Layout That Guides Your Styling.
Now that you have the right table, it’s time to start styling. For me, the first step is always creating a loose layout. This means mentally dividing the surface into sections to help guide where each piece of decor will go, essentially creating styling zones, and making the whole styling process feel more intentional.
Below are a few layout ideas for you to try as a starting point! You’ll see that some patterns are really simple, while others have more movement in the design.
No matter which layout you choose, I always recommend walking around your coffee table and viewing it from different angles. Take a moment to adjust and shift pieces as needed until the arrangement feels cohesive from every angle.
Coffee Table Styling Layouts To Try ↓
→ My key takeaway: Break your coffee table into sections and then use those sections to guide your styling.
Don’t Forget the Vertical View.
As you style your coffee table decor, don’t forget to consider the vertical aesthetic. There are two big considerations here:
Check that coffee table accessories aren’t blocking important sightlines—this might include things like the television or fireplace, and could also include another seat in the room, especially if your living room is set up more for conversation.
Check that there is enough variation in the height of your coffee table pieces. For example, you don’t want all your decor to be the exact same height on the exact same plane. Creating variation in height is key to well-balanced styling.
→ My key takeaway: vertical views matter—check that you have variety in the height of your pieces and that they don’t block important views.
Stack, Layer, and Elevate Your Decor With Books.
Just my opinion, but if you’re styling a coffee table without books, you’re doing it wrong.
Books are one of the easiest ways to make a coffee table feel thoughtful and pulled together. They add height, texture, and personality, while also giving a glimpse into what you love—whether that’s design, travel, or something else that inspires you.
→ My key takeaway: Books really do the heavy lifting when it comes to coffee table styling, adding height, texture, and personality, instantly making the arrangement feel complete and intentional.
Shop Our Antique and Vintage Book Collection ↓
Ultimately, styling a coffee table—or any part of your home—is about intention. Consider scale, create a simple layout, mix up the heights, and layer in interesting pieces that add personality. The right mix of details can completely change how your coffee table feels, turning it into a beautiful focal point that grounds the room.
MORE INTERIOR STYLING TIPS →
Hi, I’m Casey, founder of Refuge Interiors, where I combine my lifelong love of decorating and design with a passion for sourcing vintage and antique treasures to create classic, collected interiors that feel warm, inviting, and beautifully lived in.
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