Let’s be honest—your coffee table is basically the center of attention in your living room. Whether you’re hosting friends or having a cozy night with a cup of coffee, that little table says a lot about your style.
The good news? You don’t need to be an interior designer to make it look amazing.
Today, I’m sharing 10 coffee table styling ideas that are super easy to pull off—but look like they were done by a pro. Ready to turn that plain surface into a stylish statement? Let’s get started!
1. Stack a Few Stylish Books
Books are the secret weapon of coffee table styling. Choose 2–3 hardcover books with beautiful covers and stack them neatly. They create instant height and structure—and they give your guests something interesting to flip through, too.
Want bonus points? Pick books that match your color scheme or reflect your personality—like travel, fashion, or design.
2. Use a Decorative Tray
If your coffee table feels cluttered, a tray is your best friend. It anchors your decor and instantly makes everything look more intentional.
Try a round or rectangular tray in wood, metal, or even woven rattan—whatever fits your vibe. Place a candle, a small vase, and maybe a little trinket or two inside. Done!
3. Add Something Green
Every styled table needs a touch of nature. A small plant, a leafy stem in a glass vase, or a bunch of fresh flowers can add life to your living room.
And don’t worry if you don’t have a green thumb—faux plants or dried flowers totally count.
4. Light a Candle (or Two)
Candles are the ultimate cozy touch. They bring warmth, scent, and style all at once. Mix things up by using candles of different shapes and sizes—pillar candles, tapers, or even a sculptural one.
Place them on your tray or right next to your books for a soft, layered look.
5. Add a Statement Piece
Your coffee table is the perfect place to show off something unique. This could be a small sculpture, a cool bowl, a decorative box, or something quirky that tells a story.
Think of it as your coffee table’s “wow” factor—something that catches the eye and adds personality.
6. Mix Up the Textures
Want that professionally styled look? Layer different textures.
Pair shiny with matte, rough with smooth—like a glass vase on a wooden tray, or a ceramic bowl beside a linen book cover. This creates visual interest without being too loud.
7. Play with Height
A flat layout can look… well, flat. Use items of varying heights to add depth and dimension.
Stack books to elevate small objects, use tall candle holders, or place a vase with flowers beside shorter pieces. Just remember to keep it balanced and not overcrowded.
8. Add a Personal Touch
Your coffee table should reflect you. Add something that feels personal—maybe a photo in a small frame, a travel souvenir, or a vintage item passed down from family.
These little details make your space feel warm and meaningful, not just styled.
9. Refresh It with the Seasons
The easiest way to keep things fresh? Update your coffee table with the seasons!
Add a mini pumpkin in fall, some pinecones in winter, a vase of tulips in spring, or seashells in summer. You don’t need to overhaul everything—just a few seasonal touches go a long way.
10. Don’t Overcrowd It
Sometimes, less is more. Leave a little breathing room between items so each piece can shine.
Embracing a bit of white space makes your decor look cleaner and more intentional—plus, it leaves room to set down your coffee mug!
Ready to Style Yours?
You don’t need fancy decor or a big budget to style your coffee table like a pro. Just a few thoughtful items—a tray, some books, something green, a candle, and a personal touch—can totally transform your space.
Try mixing and matching a few of these ideas today, and see how your living room instantly feels more polished.
Want more decorating ideas? Browse the rest of our home decor articles here on Blinque Living and get inspired to create a space you love.
