How To Style A Coffee Table

A stylish coffee table will always turn heads. It’s only after you’ve spent time looking that you truly realize the effort it took to put the table together. Normally, the most visually appealing coffee tables have a combination of books, plants, magazines, and other objects in monochromatic color schemes. But just seeing the final product can be deceiving because it may seem like it’s easy to replicate. And while you can easily replicate particular things, you always want to add a touch of your own taste to make it unique. Prior to picking and purchasing items for the table, I recommend you think about your goal / the look you’re going for. Is it hectic? Is it simple? Is it colorful? Is it going to be more functional or more pretty?

Essential Item #1: Coffee Table Books

What would a coffee table be without books? Books are the easiest and best way to incorporate color, style, and taste. Some tips: try to collect books in a common theme (fashion, landscapes, décor) & color. If you plan on stacking, stack the largest book on the bottom and the smallest on top. Stick to an odd number of grouping, and layer it up by adding accessories on top of your books. Whether you’re picking solely on color or on your favorite artists/authors, I’ve written a post on the best 50+ coffee table books in case you need some inspo. I’ve attached it here!

Essential Item #2: Coffee Table Trays

Trays are great for organization, especially if you have a large coffee table with a lot going on. If you keep your remotes, candles, or coasters on your coffee table, it can look quite messy if not placed in a tray. Trays can also be used as an accent piece if you pick an electric color or pattern. Finally, there are endless ways to create an aesthetic with a tray. For example, placing books in the tray that match the color of your tray. Or doing the opposite and creating a constrast effect.

Essential item #3: Coffee Table Plants/Flowers

Bring the outside in and incorporate plants/flowers onto your coffee table. Not only will they purify your air, but they’ll make for quite the statement piece (depending on the plant/flower you pick) and they’ll add that pop of color you need. I’ve done a post on plants which I’ve attached here if you aren’t sure of the exact kind you want. Some people like to put succulents such as cacti, jade plants & aloe vera while others prefer statement plants/flowers such as orchids, cherry blossoms, or eucalyptus branches. It’s completely up to you!

Essential Item #4: Random Objects Of Your Choosing

Random objects elevate the accessories you already have on your table. They’re like the cherry on top. I recommend getting super creative with your random objects. I’ve always thought of them as a reflection of my personal tastes. So, when it comes to picking them, think about tangible things that describe you and the things you like.