Stack with books

If your bookshelves are stacked too high, then a coffee table is a great place to display your your favourite collection of coffee table books. There are so many beautiful books out there with amazing covers and colourful spines that you can even match to your overall colour theme. Typically, stacks of two to four books work best depending on their size.

Organize with trays

Use a tray or box to keep your things organised. This could include TV remotes, matchboxes for your candles, coasters, or any other small objects that you like to keep handy. Its way neater than having them scattered all over the place.

Before you start styling your table consider how you use it. Do you typically set your drink down on it when watching TV? Do you love to play board games? Or do you lounge around and read books and magazines? The best styled coffee tables must be functional as well as look good. 

Here’s how to create the balance between stylish and functional. 

Start with a plant

Who doesn’t love looking at a bit of greenery? Whether it’s a little vase of flowers, an interesting plant, or a greenery arrangement it will make your space feel more alive and instantly homely. Plants are also great for anchoring a space. Play with different size vases and pots. Either go dramatic with one amazing plant or mix it up with small succulents, cactuses or whatever your favourite greens are. 

How to style your coffee table

Layer personal objects

The coffee table is a great place to show off your own personal style. By adding decorative objects like vases, candle holders, heirloom objects or souvenirs from your travels, it will not only make your space more interesting but tells a story about you. Repetition is a known trick of the trade, so display similar items in a vignette through colour, style, shape, or theme.  

Play with different shapes and scale

Round coffee tables can be tricky to style and generally look best when items are arranged in a triangular shape, a stack of books, a tray, a bowl. Too many square or rectangular items can make a round surface feel a little off. Play with a variety of shapes from circles to hexagons and squares and break up the surface with a comparatively large object. For example, display an oversized vase with tall branches or a large bowl to give your space a more dynamic look.