The Art of Coffee Table Styling: How to Design a Beautiful & Functional Centerpiece

The Art of Coffee Table Styling: How to Design a Beautiful & Functional Centerpiece

Your coffee table says more about your home than you might think, so it’s important to decorate it in a way that ties the room together, makes a statement, and reflects who you are. 

Coffee tables set the tone of the space by being in the center of your living room, making them an immediate attention grabber and subject of focus for yourself and any guests. Having a coffee table that is well-styled and purposeful can help your living room feel more inviting, polished, and cohesive. 

More than being visually appealing, coffee tables must be practical. It’s great when they look nice, but they also hold remotes, drinks, and sometimes even food if you’re having a cozy night in with dinner and a movie. 

You don’t need to be a designer to blend style and function, with a few simple tips, your space can feel brand new! In this blog, we’ll help you learn how to balance beauty with purpose to perfect your coffee table decorating skills. 

1. Start With a Good Base 

The first, and most important step in designing your rug, is making sure you’ve got a good base. If you don’t already have a coffee table you love, purchasing one is a good place to start. 

At Rug & Home, we have several options to choose from whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern, big and sturdy, or with lots of nooks and crannies for extra storage space (My coffee table has a lid that flips up, which is where I keep my photo albums!). Whatever your needs and style preferences are, we’ve got the coffee table for you. 

Once you’ve picked out your perfect coffee table if you haven’t got one you like already, make sure to remove any books, remotes, and clutter, then give it a good deep clean. You’ll want to start with a completely fresh slate so that you can design your coffee table with fresh intentions and a clear mind. 

2. Pick a Color Scheme

Personally, when I’m taking on a new design task, it always helps to start with a few colors in mind. If you’ve already got a couch or rug, use those for inspiration! Opt for pops of colors that are already present in your space, or, if you want to spice it up, consider incorporating colors that will stand out or complement what you own. 

3. Use a Tray to Organize

Investing in a functional and stylish tray is a great place to start when redecorating your coffee table. Trays are incredibly helpful in keeping your everyday items in a designed and contained space that can easily be removed if you’re hosting guests or need extra table room for any occasion. 

4. Add Books or Magazines

Adding books and magazines is a great way to introduce personal touches into your space in a way that looks polished and decorated. Additionally, coffee table books and magazines can add the perfect form of entertainment for yourself and your guests. 

I’m a huge movie buff so the bottom tier of my coffee table is loaded up with film books that are as visually appealing as they are to read. 

5. Include Natural Elements

Plants and flowers (real or faux), are a great way to incorporate some fresh elements into your coffee table design. Think fresh blooms, succulents, or other plants that won't take up too much precious space but still add a nice pop of color. 

My favorite way to incorporate plants is by adding a single flower to a small and eye-catching vase. This way my coffee table has the perfect floral touch without it taking over the whole surface area. 

6. Mix Heights and Shapes

Mixing an array of items with varying heights, shapes, and sizes is a great way to bring dimension and visual interest to your coffee table. Think candles, bowls, stacked books, or decorative objects that differ just enough to play off one another. 

A helpful styling trick is the rule of three—a design principle that suggests objects arranged in odd numbers, especially threes, tend to look more natural and balanced to the eye. As writer Sophie Flaxman noted in Better Homes & Gardens, this approach draws attention in all the right ways, creating a cohesive yet dynamic look.

7. Keep It Personal

Adding personal touches and memorabilia is always a great way to decorate any space while representing what makes you you! Consider displaying framed photos, a unique souvenir, or an item that tells a story and shares insight about who you are. 

One way I keep my coffee table personal and functional is by incorporating the souvenir coasters I got at Trinity College in Ireland. 

8. Balance Decor and Function

Once you’ve got your décor figured out, make sure there’s still enough space for remotes, snacks, drinks, and anything else you find yourself reaching for on the day-to-day. While you want your table to be beautiful, it should also be usable! 

9. Change It Up Seasonally

Coffee tables are the perfect place to update your space for every season! In the winter you might consider adding some extra candles, decorating pinecones, and anything else that might cozy up the space and feature the holidays you celebrate. Versus in the summer, you might opt for extra plants or brighter accents to liven up the space. 

10. Edit and Simplify

Less is often more. If anything feels cluttered or out of place, don’t be afraid to move it. Your coffee table is just one element of your space, so there’s always room to rearrange and move items around to optimize the flow of your living room area. 

Conclusion 

Styling your coffee table is an opportunity to express your personality while creating a functional focal point in your living room. By starting with a solid base and thoughtfully selecting colors and décor, you can achieve a balance between aesthetics and practicality. 

Incorporating elements like natural touches, personal memorabilia, and seasonal adjustments will keep your coffee table feeling fresh and inviting. Remember, the key is to edit and simplify, allowing for a space that is both beautiful and usable. 

With these tips in mind, you'll transform your coffee table into a stunning centerpiece that reflects your individual style and enhances the overall ambiance of your home. Happy decorating!

FAQ

1. What should I put on my coffee table?

Start with a couple of beautiful books that you love flipping through or can spark conversation. Add a candle for a touch of warmth and maybe a soft scent. A small tray can help keep things tidy while adding some structure. Whereas a bit of greenery-like a potted plant or some fresh flowers-brings life to the setup. It’s all about layering pieces that look good together but also feel like you.

2. How do I make my coffee table look cozy?

To create a cozy vibe, focus on using warm tones and soft textures. Candles are a great way to add both light and scent, instantly making the space feel more inviting. Layer in a small knit throw or a soft fabric runner across the table for added texture. Personal touches, like a small framed photo, a well-loved book, or a handmade item, can also make your coffee table feel more intimate and lived-in.

3. What’s the best layout for coffee table decor?

To create a cozy vibe, focus on using warm tones and soft textures. Candles are a great way to add both light and scent, instantly making the space feel more inviting. Layer in a small knit throw or a soft fabric runner across the table for added texture. Personal touches, like a small framed photo, a well-loved book, or a handmade item, can also make your coffee table feel more intimate and lived-in.