How to Style Your Coffee Table Beautifully: A Guide to Classic Elegance
The coffee table is often the centerpiece of a living room, but it’s also one of the easiest spaces to get wrong. It’s tempting to either overdo it or leave it bare. When styled just right, however, it becomes a harmonious blend of form and function—a place to showcase beautiful design, hold a favorite candle, or simply create a relaxing moment in your home. If you love the look of a timeless, traditional style, you’re in the right place! Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautifully styled coffee table that feels balanced, thoughtful, and a touch luxurious.
1. Start with a Tray for Organisation and Style
A well-placed tray is the perfect way to anchor your coffee table and create a sense of order. Whether you opt for a sleek modern tray or a wicker one, it instantly makes the table feel more polished. Use the tray to corral your decorative items—books, candles, or little treasures—and keep things from feeling too chaotic.
Choose a tray that complements your living room’s color palette, whether it’s a rich wood finish for a traditional feel or a marble tray for a more refined look. The key is to keep it simple yet purposeful. You don’t need to overcrowd it, think of it as a home for your most important pieces.
2. Design Books: A Beautiful, Functional Touch
For those of us who are passionate about design, showcasing beautiful coffee table books is almost a must. Stack a few of your favorites on the tray or directly on the table. Not only are these books an instant conversation starter, but they also add an element of sophistication to the space.
Arrange them in neat piles, varying the heights to create visual interest. You can even lean them against the tray or other objects for a more relaxed vibe. Choose books with covers that fit your aesthetic—think vintage design books, elegant art collections, or travel guides. Their gorgeous covers and spines will add depth and richness to the table. This beautiful book below, Artful Home, is by Josh Young. I am just waiting for my copy to arrive.
3. A Candle for Ambiance and Charm
A classic candle is an effortless way to bring a sense of warmth and coziness to your coffee table. Choose a candle with a luxurious, timeless scent—perhaps something subtle like lavender, sandalwood, or vanilla—that complements your home’s atmosphere.
To make it extra stylish, place the candle in an elegant holder or glass container. Whether it’s a chic gold base or a ceramic vessel with a simple, clean design, the candle adds both function and beauty. Plus, it creates a lovely ambiance when lit.
4. Add Fresh Flowers for a Touch of Nature
Nothing brightens up a room quite like fresh flowers, and they’re the perfect way to introduce a natural element into your coffee table styling. A small vase with a few blooms—perhaps peonies, roses, a hydrangea or simple greenery—can transform your table into a living piece of art.
Opt for a vase that complements the overall design of your coffee table. For a traditional style, a classic crystal or ceramic vase works wonders. Keep the arrangement simple; a single variety of flower or a few sprigs of greenery are enough to create a stunning focal point.
5. Incorporate Personal Touches
While it’s easy to follow style guidelines, don’t forget to add your personal touch! A few seasonal decor pieces, a special trinket from your travels, or a vintage object you’ve collected over the years can make the space feel uniquely yours. These personal items not only tell a story but also add layers to the design, making your coffee table feel curated and meaningful.
