How to Style a Coffee Table

Styling a coffee table is one of the easiest ways to elevate your living room and express your personality. It's where function meets beauty – a place for your favourite books, a candle or two, maybe a coffee or wine, and definitely a little design flair. But not all coffee tables are created equal. The shape of your table plays a big role in how to style it effectively.

In this blog post, we'll break down simple, stylish interior decorating tips for styling square and round coffee tables.

Styling a Square Coffee Table

A square coffee table offers a symmetrical layout and ample surface area – great for layering and balance.

1. Divide it into quadrants

Think of your square table as four mini sections. This helps with balance and avoids clutter.

2. Anchor with something substantial

Start with a base item in one quadrant, like a stack of coffee table books or a tray. This grounds the table visually.

3. Layer heights and textures

In the other sections, add objects of varying heights — think a tall vase with greenery, a sculptural object, or a candle. Mix materials like ceramic, wood, metal, and glass for interest.

4. Add something personal

A small bowl from your travels, or a quirky item that sparks conversation can make the space feel more you.

5. Don’t overcrowd

Leave some space for functionality — you’ll want room to set down drinks or the remote.

Example layout:

• Top left: Stack of books with a candle on top

• Top right: Low decorative bowl with beads or matchsticks

• Bottom left: Sculptural piece or floral arrangement

• Bottom right: Tray with coasters and a small vase

The same structure will work for rectangle coffee tables.

Styling a Round Coffee Table

Round coffee tables bring softness and flow to a space, so styling them should complement that organic shape.

1. Group in triangles

Odd numbers work best — try styling in threes. Use the “triangle” principle: one tall item (like a vase), one medium (like a candle or bowl), and one short (like a decorative object or small stack of books).

2. Embrace curves

Since the table is round, echo its shape with round bowls, curved-edge trays, or soft floral arrangements.

3. Let it breathe

Leave space around the edges so the table doesn’t feel cramped. This also makes it more practical for everyday use.

Example layout:

• Center: Circular tray with a candle and small decorative box

• One side: Vase with fresh or faux greenery

• Opposite side: Stack of two books with a sculptural object on top

  
  

Final Tips for Any Coffee Table

• Think about scale – Keep proportions in mind so pieces don’t overwhelm or get lost.

• Add life – A touch of greenery or fresh flowers always adds warmth and colour.

• Switch it up seasonally – Refresh with different textures, colours, or scents depending on the time of year.

• Keep it practical – Style beautifully, but leave room to live in the space.

  
  

Remember: coffee table styling is about balance, beauty, and function. Whether you have a square or round table, the key is to layer thoughtfully, keep things curated, and always add a bit of your personality. Happy styling!