Sometimes, it’s the unsung heroes that truly hold the space together, often overlooked while the bigger, flashier pieces steal the spotlight. When envisioning a living area, your mind might immediately go to key items like the sofa or dining table. However, the real star of the show is often the coffee table.
More than just a surface, the coffee table is the heart of the room. Typically positioned in the center, it’s where life unfolds - whether it’s setting down a coffee cup, diving into a book, or showcasing fresh flowers and stylish decor.
Here are some top tips to elevate your coffee table game...
Get in shape
Before diving into decor, consider how you want your coffee table to function, as this will often guide the shape that best fits your room. If you’re looking for a larger table to unify two sofas, a rectangular or wider oval shape may be ideal. For filling a corner gap, a smaller square or triangular table could do the trick. If your table is off to one side of a sofa or armchair, a nest of varying-height tables might be just what you need.
Mix It Up
No matter the shape of your coffee table, maximising its surface area for both practicality and aesthetics is key. A good rule of thumb is to keep about a third of the table free for essentials like your mug, magazine, or phone. Then, arrange a mix of trays, bowls, stylish decor, and books to enhance the table’s shape, incorporating items that add texture, colour, and function. For instance, a triangular table might benefit from a candle holder or a long tray that creates a visual divide. On a circular table, break up the surface space with a square tray for contrast, or soften sharp edges with round decor pieces.
Book It
Coffee table books are a perfect fit for this space, combining oversized formats with stunning art, design, and lifestyle themes. Stack them to add height or showcase one open to a beautiful spread, allowing you to easily refresh the look by simply turning the page.
A Little Life
Fresh flowers, dried arrangements, or even chic faux botanicals can create a stunning centrepiece on your coffee table. Opt for a tall vase to add vertical interest, and consider placing it off-centre. Pair it with other elements, such as a stack of books or a favourite sculpture, to create a layered and inviting look, reminiscent of cushions and throws on a sofa.
Level Up
Consider using a complementary nest of coffee tables or layering on a single piece with stacks of books or a decorative tray. This adds height and can delineate usage effectively. Keep the lowest level open for items you need to set down, crown the highest layer with a striking vase or artwork, and place an open book in the middle of a three-table nest. The flexibility of a nest allows you to keep them together or spread them out for entertaining.
In the Mood
A coffee table also serves as an ideal spot for vibe-setting essentials like scented candles, which can enhance your mood with fresh, spicy, or calming aromas. Use a beautiful tray to protect the surface from wax stains and heat marks. If you have an upholstered ottoman-style coffee table, a tray adds stability, keeping everything in place. Now that you have the look down, all that’s left is to add your favourite coffee!
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