How to Style a Coffee Table: 7 Tips for a Beautiful, Collected Look

I love when clients ask for tips on how to style their coffee tables because it’s one of my favorite finishing touches in a space. A coffee table may seem like a small piece of furniture, but in many ways, it’s the heart of a living room. It’s where conversations happen, where you set down your morning coffee, and where your personality can shine through in the details you choose to display.

Here are seven of my favorite tips for creating a coffee table that feels stylish, inviting, and uniquely you.

Start with an Anchor Piece

Every great coffee table arrangement needs a star of the show. Begin with one large anchor item to ground your design. This could be a sculptural bowl, a statement vase, or even a tray that defines the space. By giving the eye a focal point, you’ll make everything else feel intentional rather than scattered. From there, layer in supporting accents that complement your anchor piece.

Mix Heights and Textures

To create visual interest, play with items of different heights and textures. Try combining a smooth ceramic vase with a stack of linen-bound books, or pairing a glass cloche with a woven rattan tray. Contrasts like shiny and matte, hard and soft, or tall and low will make your coffee table feel dimensional and engaging.

Embrace the Rule of Threes

We designers often rely on the ‘rule of threes’ when styling vignettes. This is because items grouped in threes feel more balanced and natural than even-numbered arrangements. Try placing three objects together, perhaps a candle, a small sculpture, and a book, to create a scene with depth and dimension. You can repeat this trick in different areas of the table for a polished, layered look.

Add a Cozy Glow

One of my favorite unexpected tips is to place a small, battery-operated table lamp on top of a stack of books. It instantly brings warmth to the room, adds height to your arrangement, and creates a cozy glow in the evenings. Think of it as a softer, more inviting alternative to overhead lighting.

Spark Conversation

Your coffee table is the perfect place to showcase items that invite curiosity and connection. I love using open book stands with pages featuring beautiful photography, or displaying meaningful objects from my travels or my children. These little touches not only personalize your space but are also great conversation starters.

Use Decorative Books Thoughtfully

Coffee table books are a classic for a reason! They’re versatile, stylish, and fun to collect. Choose books whose covers complement the color palette of your room for a cohesive look. Layer them under decorative objects, use them to add height, or simply stack them for easy browsing. This is another effortless way to tie your design together while reflecting your interests.

Incorporate a Seasonal Candle

A coffee table feels more inviting with a candle. Select one that reflects the season, like

warm spice blends as we head into fall, and pair it with a pretty match set or stylish lighter. Not only does this add ambiance, but it also makes the table feel thoughtfully curated.

My Final Thoughts

Styling a coffee table is about more than decoration—it’s about creating a focal point that feels lived-in, welcoming, and true to you. By mixing textures, layering heights, and weaving in personal touches, you can transform this everyday surface into a space that reflects your story.

If you’re ready to take your living room (or your whole home!) to the next level, I’d love to help bring your vision to life.

Warmly,

Kim