Aside from when I’m whipping up fresh recipes in the kitchen, the living room is typically where I spend most of my time. Whether I’m relaxing on the couch, watching a Mariner’s game, or gathering with family and friends, our living room serves as the center of our household.
When we built our home, we wanted to create a space that was cozy, inviting, and timeless. While there were certainly big decisions that went into this concept, I’ve learned that the small touches can make just as much of an impact. One spot that I have found particularly fun to decorate? Our coffee table.
Coming up with coffee table decor ideas can feel quite intimidating. There are so many small trinkets out there that it can be a challenge to know how to mix and match them in an intentional and cohesive way. Regardless of your personal style or the space you have to work with, I’m sharing a handful of coffee table decor tips and finds that will help you level up your living space.
Coffee Table Decor Ideas
How to Decorate a Coffee Table
Before we get into my go-to coffee table decor ideas, I wanted to share some quick tips to keep in mind during the process…
- A little goes a long way.
I know firsthand that it can be tempting to buy every little decor piece, candle, or coffee table book you like, but the key to a well designed table is to ensure things are well balanced. Leaving empty space is not only important for the function of your coffee table, but it will also avoid things from looking messy or overcrowded.
- Display a variety of colors.
Most of the hues in my house are neutral, but I don’t shy away from a splash of light blue or green from time to time. When choosing coffee table decor, don’t feel like everything has to be matchy-matchy. Start by mixing subtle shades that complement other decor accents in your home. You can also incorporate different metals, like silver and gold, or marble and wood textures as well.
- Switch things up from season to season.
One perk to styling a coffee table is that all the items can easily be moved around or swapped out from time to time. I like to update my decor from season to season since it’s a small way to add a festive touch to your living space. Plus, it’s so fun to pull out your holiday decor each year!
- Display pieces with a variety of texture and height.
To keep things visually appealing, try to incorporate coffee table decor with various shapes and textures. For example, if you have a wood coffee table, adding a marble tray or checkered catch-all box would give things more dimension (rather than setting matching wood decor on top.) Similarly, avoid things from falling flat by displaying items that have different heights and sizes, like placing a potted houseplant next to a small trinket box.
CERAMIC TRINKET DISH
Sure, a trinket dish might typically be used to stash rings on a nightstand, but it’s also an easy piece to display on a coffee table. Plus, this find is under $5!
Knotted cement candle holder
Candle holders are a classic decor piece, but the knotted design on this one offers a unique and modern touch.
Brass Decorative Box
Stash a matchbox or small TV remote in this brass box. It would also look cute on a nightstand or entryway table!
Faux Potted Plant
I mentioned above that houseplants can add a lot of fun texture to a living room space. However, if you don’t have a green thumb, a faux option might be your best bet.
Glass Tealight Candle holder
Tea light candle holders will never go out of style. Just one of these would add a pretty (and glowy) touch to your table, but a grouping of them would also look cute.
Marble Bowl
Bowls aren’t just for your kitchen shelves or countertops — adding one to your coffee table looks equally as chic!
Scalloped Woven Tray
If you’re working with a larger coffee table, consider adding a tray on top to corral magazines, books, coasters, or remotes. I love the woven texture and scalloped detailing on this find.
speckled ceramic coasters
Speaking of coasters, not only are they essential to protect your tabletop but they can also add a fun pop of color.
Terracotta Ceramic Vase
When in doubt, start by placing a ceramic vase on your coffee table. Stick faux stems inside and change them out depending on the season. You can also use fresh florals if that’s more your thing.
Ceramic Candle
Whether you’re decorating your coffee table or a dresser, you can never go wrong with a simple candle.
Brass Candle Snuffer
If you like to light candles then a snuffer is a must-have that doubles up as decor.
Coffee Table Book
If you’re into interior design or decorating, this coffee table book will actually be something you want to flip through.
MARBLE OBJECT
Add an unexpected touch to your coffee table design with this marble object. It’s the perfect size (not too big and not too small) and has a quirky yet neutral feel.
Striker Match Holder
Another practical coffee table decor idea? A simple match holder, like this one which features a striker as well.
Which Coffee table decor idea is your favorite? Let me know in the comment section below!
