This is your guide to styling the perfect coffee table

A well-styled coffee table is essential to any space, offering functionality and a personal approach to living. And while it might encourage overwhelm, creating the perfect arrangement doesn’t require perfection, just thoughtful layering and a balance of elements. Here’s how to bring your vision to life.

Gaudi Coffee Table from Bradfords

1. Choose the Right Table

Begin with a table that complements the scale and vibe of your room. Whether you opt for a sleek glass surface, a rustic wood piece, or an artful sculptural design, ensure it’s proportional to your seating area. A table that’s too large will overwhelm, while one that’s too small can get lost in the space.

New York By New York by Assouline from Ligne Roset

2. Layering Books & Magazines

Books are the foundation of a well-styled coffee table. Select a mix of large, visually striking coffee table books and smaller, curated magazine collections. Layer them in a way that adds height and dimension. Stack a few with a purpose—whether showcasing a favourite artist or a design style—and keep them visually varied to create intrigue.

Soudure Dish Set from Ligne Roset

3. Incorporate Meaningful Trinkets

This is where your personal touch comes into play. Select trinkets or decorative items that have sentimental value or practical use. A beautifully crafted bowl, a cherished heirloom, or a unique sculpture can all be meaningful statements. However, consider hiding those unsightly everyday items—like remotes or cables— in decorative boxes and catchalls.

Branco Vase from Bradfords

4. Adding Accoutrements

Now you can introduce smaller accents: a fragrant candle, a small and unfussy plant. This helps balance the design while infusing life into the table. A tray also acts as a grounding element, organising the accessories and keeping the space from feeling too cluttered.

5. Balancing Proportions

Finally, ensure your table isn’t overcrowded. Strike a balance between large and small items, keeping in mind the visual weight of each object. Sometimes, creating the perfect look is a process of trial and error—don’t be afraid to adjust as you go. It’s about finding harmony in the layers you’ve created and embracing the unexpected beauty of the arrangement.