How often do you think about your coffee table? It’s more than just a spot for your morning coffee or a place to put the remote—it can be a statement piece that sets the tone for your entire living room. The right styling can improve the ambience of your space whilst reflecting your personal taste. In this blog, we’ll share simple, achievable tips to help you create a stylish and functional coffee table setup.
Step one: choose your base essentials
It all starts with the right coffee table. Consider your budget and available space. Do you need extra storage? Is it mostly for décor, or does it need to withstand daily coffee spills?
If you have books, consider a double-top or two-tier coffee table. The book you are reading...or showing off...can go on the lower shelf where it’ll be protected from spills.
Traditionally, coffee tables were generally square or rectangular, but there's currently a trend for triangular coffee tables. They work especially well with L- or U-shaped sectionals, offering more space to move around while adding a distinctive touch.
Material-wise, wood is always a classic, but don't overlook glass for an airy feel or even a concrete coffee table for a bold, modern statement—especially in a light, neutral space. If you do opt for wood, mango is having a moment.
Most people keep their coffee table naked, but adding a colourful runner might be just the touch you need. Our patterned table runner makes a statement, and you can look for cushions for your sofa to go with it. Trays are useful for grouping items and helping prevent fragile things from being knocked off. Choose a lacquered tray for colour, or rattan for that on-trend rustic look.
Step two: master the art of layers
Layers create depth and visual interest, making your coffee table look more curated and intentional. Think in three dimensions—mix heights, textures, and materials to achieve a balanced yet effortless look.
Some elements to consider:
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Books -skip the dog-eared paperbacks and opt for stylish coffee table books on fashion, art, or photography. They’re a great conversation starter and add a personal touch. Bonus: consider turning your favourite travel photos into a bound book for a unique, sentimental touch.
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Trays - these are a good way to keep smaller items together, especially if you have pets that might be inclined to knock them off. By adding an extra layer, a good storage tray elevates your display both literally and metaphorically.
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Candles -nothing adds warmth and ambience like candles. Choose scents that match the season and place them in a stylish holder. Just remember—never leave them unattended!
Mix textures and heights. A woven basket tray adds dimension whilst a stack of books arranged from largest to smallest creates a natural focal point.
Step three: add a statement piece
A bold decorative object can instantly give your coffee table a facelift and serve as a conversation starter. Whether it’s an oversized vase, a unique sculpture, or even a stylish decorative game, choose something that reflects your personality whilst adding visual impact.
Recent trends include metallic accents and hand-carved pieces. Go natural with petrified wood, start a conversation with our bleached wood statue, or add metal with our gold leaf sculpture.
Avoid fragile glass or delicate ceramics that can easily be knocked over. Instead, go for durable materials like wood, stoneware, or metal. Keep your statement piece toward the centre of the table to prevent accidents, especially if you have pets or kids.
Step four: bring life with greenery
Nothing brightens a room more than plants, and your coffee table is a great place to put them.Whether you opt for real or artificial greenery, the key is choosing plants that thrive in your living room’s lighting conditions.
If your living room is cave-like or den-like, you might find that you are better off with artificial plants. Ferns are a good, easy-to-maintain, choice. Alternatively, you can use flowers and switch them out regularly.
If you’re using real plants, make sure to use a catch tray under them so that water doesn’t stain your coffee table. Artificial plants are an easier choice, but don't clean the air as well.
Choose vases that complement other colours in the room. Or go for plain vases to show off what’s inside them. Patterned ceramic vases draw the eye. Or use the vase and the plant together to add height and texture, such as with this beautiful Tonna vase.
Step five: keep it practical
While styling is important, your coffee table needs to serve a functional purpose as well. Think about how you use the space and incorporate solutions that make your life easier without compromising on style.
Here are some practical coffee table ideas:
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Work-friendly layout – if you like to work from the sofa, ensure your coffee table has enough room for a laptop or notebook. A two-tier table or one with drawers can help keep the surface tidy while providing extra storage.
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Storage options – consider stylish storage solutions like lidded boxes for smaller items such as remotes or spare batteries, keeping your coffee table organised and clutter-free.
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Coasters – essential for protecting your coffee table, coasters come in a variety of materials, from metallic to natural finishes or floral patterns. A coaster holder or a small tray will help keep them in place when not in use.
Make sure you leave enough space for drinks, books, or any other items you frequently place on your coffee table. Functionality should be at the forefront, but with a balance of beauty.
Step six: don't forget seasonal switch-ups
Let your coffee table reflect the seasons. In autumn, go for candles with reflective scents such as clove and patchouli, or coloured LED candles if you prefer. Add a runner in a warm tone, or switch in coasters marked with autumn leaves.
In spring, fill a vase with fresh flowers and lighten the colour tones, selecting light blues and purples to welcome the return of the sun.
Put together special set ups for holidays you celebrate too. Keep refreshing your decor and it will feel like you have an entire new room.
Switching up your coffee table decor regularly keeps things exciting and allows you to express your personal style with minimal effort. Best of all, these changes don’t have to break the bank—small, affordable items can dramatically change the look of your space.
If you're looking to refresh your decor, explore our homeware collection for seasonal accents and finishing touches that will complete the look you’re after.
