Coffee Table Styling: Beyond the Books

Let’s face it- most of the time when you come across a coffee table it’s stacked with a bunch of books and maybe a miscellaneous trinket dish with some coasters. Or even better, if it’s a home with kids there is nothing on it or it’s covered with toys (trust me I know the struggle). It’s easy to avoid styling and get caught up in ALL the coffee table books because they are pretty and it fills the empty space. But let’s explore some helpful tips to take your table up a notch.
1) Trays, trays, trays- I’m a huge advocate for trays! They’re great because they come in all shapes and sizes to meet your table needs and can hold all those miscellaneous decor pieces to create a more organized look. You can also use them to introduce an element of color or keep it more neutral depending on your vision and the rest of the room.

2) Uneven numbers- I like to offset the table with an odd numbers of items as it comes across more appealing to the eye. Some people may prefer symmetry, really a personal preference.

3) Groupings- If you have a lot to smaller pieces it’s nice to arrange them in groupings with a variety of elements. For example, on a long rectangular table maybe one end has a stack of books and the other features a grouping of a small plant, decorative bowl, and a candle. Mix it up and play around with them!

4) Various heights - A variety of heights can be very important on your table. Again it’s more interesting to the eye. Bring in some vases and stack up those books!

5) Fresh flowers & small plants- Obviously I’m a sucker for color and bringing in fresh flowers and greenery is an easy way to routinely brighten up the coffee table while adding height variation. A small potted plant is another way to bring some life to the table. You can have fun with the vases or planters to introduce different patterns, colors, and textures as needed.

Check out the items below for some ideas on what to include on your coffee table beyond the books. I love to add at least one interesting. antique/vintage item, nothing like a good conversation piece. Enjoy!