The Best Coffee Table Styling Tips Designers Always Use

A coffee table is more than a place to toss your remote—it’s the centerpiece of your living room, and when styled right, it can totally elevate your space. But let’s be honest: achieving that perfectly curated look without it feeling staged or cluttered can feel like an impossible puzzle. The good news? Designers have a few go-to tricks that make it look effortless. Here's how to master the art of coffee table styling in a way that's chic, personal, and totally livable.

1. Start With a Tray—Your Secret Styling Weapon
Designers swear by trays for a reason: they instantly pull everything together. A good tray (wood, rattan, marble—pick your vibe) anchors your arrangement and keeps smaller items like candles, remotes, and matches from looking like random clutter. Bonus: you can easily move everything when you need to use the table for, you know, actual coffee.

2. The Rule of Threes—But Make It Varied
Visually, odd numbers just work. Group items in threes—but don’t let them all be the same size or height. A candle, a sculptural object, and a small vase? Perfect trio. Varying heights create movement and help the eye travel, which keeps your table from looking flat or boring.

3. Books, Books, and More Books
Coffee table books are the MVPs of styling. Stack two or three with gorgeous covers that reflect your interests—fashion, photography, travel, whatever speaks to you. They add height, personality, and a built-in conversation starter. Top your stack with a cool object or small dish to layer it up.

4. Add a Touch of Nature
Plants or florals bring life and softness to your setup. A small potted plant, a single stem in a bud vase, or even a low bowl of moss can add texture and freshness. Keep it low-profile to avoid blocking sightlines if your table sits in front of the TV.