Styling a coffee table can transform the look of your living room, serving not only as a functional space but also as a centerpiece that can tie the room together.
Whether you’re going for a minimalist look or a more eclectic approach, here are some professional interior design tips to style your coffee table like a pro.
Choose a Focal Point
Start by selecting a focal point for your coffee table styling.
This could be a large vase, a sculpture, or even a stack of art books.
- Visual Interest: Choose an item that is visually striking and reflects your personal style.
- Scale and Proportion: Make sure the focal point is proportionate to the size of your coffee table.
Layer with Books
Books are a staple when styling coffee tables because they offer both form and function.
- Stacks: Arrange books in stacks that vary in height and horizontal/vertical orientation. This creates levels that make the arrangement more interesting.
- Themed Selection: Choose books that match the room’s color scheme or that are relevant to your interests to add a personal touch.
Add Natural Elements
Incorporate natural elements to bring texture and life to your coffee table.
- Floral Arrangements: A vase with fresh flowers or greenery can add color and a soft touch.
- Decorative Bowls: Consider a bowl of natural items like stones, shells, or decorative balls that tie into the room’s aesthetic.
Incorporate Functional Items
While style is important, functionality should not be overlooked.
- Coasters: Choose coasters that complement the table’s styling—these can be a design element in themselves.
- Trays: Use trays to corral smaller items like remotes and coasters. Trays can help the space feel organized and intentional.
Use Varying Heights
Creating layers through varying heights helps to draw the eye and adds dimension.
- Candlesticks: Group candlesticks of different heights to add an elegant touch.
- Elevated Bowls or Boxes: These can serve both decorative and functional purposes, offering storage and adding height.
Play with Textures
Mixing textures can dramatically enhance the depth and interest of your coffee table decor.
- Glass and Metal: Combine reflective surfaces with matte finishes or rugged textures like wood or fabric.
- Soft Textures: Adding items like a small fabric ottoman or a plush table runner can soften the overall look.
Keep It Balanced
Ensure that your coffee table decor is balanced not only in terms of visual weight but also in its layout.
- Symmetry vs. Asymmetry: Decide whether a symmetrical or asymmetrical arrangement works best with your room’s overall decor. Symmetry often conveys formality, while asymmetry can feel more casual.
- Spacing: Leave enough space around items to allow for easy use of the table and movement of items when needed.
Refresh Regularly
Changing up your coffee table decor seasonally or according to different occasions can keep your living space feeling fresh and dynamic.
- Seasonal Decor: Incorporate elements that match the season, such as pine cones in winter or seashells in summer.
- Event-Based Styling: Adjust your coffee table styling to suit entertaining needs or special events, allowing it to function as a practical and decorative centerpiece.
Styling your coffee table with these professional tips will not only enhance the functionality of your living space but also elevate its aesthetic appeal, making your coffee table a standout piece in your home decor.
