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Leaving your coffee table bare means missing a golden chance to beautify your living room. Coffee table decor transforms this focal piece into a stylish statement. Start by decluttering. Toss out dried-up candles, wilting plants, and old magazines. Keep the surface fresh and inviting.
Think about your style and daily habits. Add a tray to group small items, like coasters or remotes, for a neat look. Fresh flowers or a stack of books can bring charm and personality. Regularly clear off unused items to maintain a clean, elegant vibe.

Keep it Simple with a Small Plant

It might seem obvious, but a small plant can work wonders for your coffee table decor. This simple idea is easy to maintain and instantly adds life to your space. A single plant fits perfectly into a minimalist design, creating a clean, fresh look.
If your style leans maximalist, this tip still works. A simple plant on your coffee table can balance a busy room, offering a calm focal point for the eyes. Choose a healthy, vibrant plant to keep your space feeling lively and inviting.
Fill a Vase with Branches
Another great botanical idea is adding branches to an oversized vase for your coffee table decor. Tall arrangements like this don’t block views or people, making them perfect for any space. Consider silver dollar eucalyptus, olive branches, or dried grasses for a stunning arrangement. These natural elements bring texture and elegance without overwhelming the room.
Use a Pretty Tray
If you’re using an ottoman as your coffee table, don’t worry—you can still style it! A tray is a great way to keep items organized and prevent them from tipping over on the soft upholstery.
With a tray, you can arrange items like a bud vase, candies, or mini books. The possibilities are endless! Plus, a tray helps contain clutter and can be easily moved when you need more space to relax.

Bundle Up Some Candles

Displaying pillar candles in various sizes is an affordable way to elevate your coffee table decor. Group them on a tray or in a bowl to catch any melting wax and protect your table.
Scented candles not only add ambiance but also act as natural room deodorizers. For a mess-free, long-lasting option, you can also opt for battery-operated candles that offer the same cozy feel without the hassle.
Display Greenery

Nothing brightens a room like plants and flowers, and your coffee table is the perfect place to showcase them. A large vase with bushy branches adds height and color, creating a dynamic focal point.
You can also mix it up with succulents, a bowl of moss balls, or a vase filled with dried greenery. These options bring nature indoors and instantly elevate your coffee table decor with minimal effort.

Add Woven Accents

Incorporating woven textures into your coffee table decor adds depth and visual interest. A woven ball, coaster set, or basket creates a warm, natural vibe that feels inviting.
You don’t have to stick to the coffee table itself. Add a woven side table, plant holder, or even wall art nearby to complement the design and tie the look together seamlessly.
Energize With Color

If bold hues are your style, bring that energy to your coffee table decor. Start by observing your room’s color palette and use it as a guide for selecting accents.
Incorporate pops of color with taper candles, vibrant vases, trinket dishes, books, or matchboxes. These small, colorful touches can effortlessly tie your coffee table to the rest of the room, creating a cohesive and lively design.
Inject Some Personality
Consider injecting some personality into your design when thinking about your coffee table style. An assortment of objects that you’ve gathered from various places showcases who you are and where you’ve been– and allows for an easy swapping of stories with guests.
Think About the Surroundings
When styling a coffee table, it’s essential to think about how it blends with the rest of your home decor.
The driftwood serves as a focal point without overwhelming the room. It’s light enough to move when entertaining or cleaning. This thoughtful approach prevents the coffee table from clashing with the artwork and accessories on the fireplace wall, maintaining a balanced, cohesive look.
A Fresh Bouquet
According to Tatiana Olkhovski from ETM Interiors, a vibrant floral bouquet can instantly elevate your coffee table. “The combination of a chic vase and a neatly stacked set of magazines creates a striking visual impact,” she emphasizes.
Add Boxes
I love a beautiful box on a coffee table because it gives us a place to store clutter or to conceal a treasure you want to reveal upon closer inspection.
To Kahn, fine box-making is an art form, as “there are so many wonderful boxes made of wood, crystal, mother of pearl, and more.”
Choose an Accent Color
To create a stunning coffee table decor.“A rustic tray with three glass jars of flowers brings out the color and draws attention to other turquoise elements, like the sofa pillows.”
Using a tray not only elevates small items but also keeps things organized. It makes swapping decor easy and provides space for drinks and snacks during gatherings. This simple tip helps add both style and practicality to your coffee table vignette.
Add Some Table Games

In this cozy living space, Lucy Small cleverly blends marble with natural materials. A marble-top coffee table is paired with rattan and wood, making the space feel warm and inviting. Complementary colors and fun accessories, like games and coasters, set a relaxed tone.
The coffee table decor invites you to unwind and enjoy casual moments. It’s a perfect balance of style and comfort, showing that even sophisticated pieces can be approachable and fun. The mix of textures and colors adds charm, making it an ideal spot to sip drinks and enjoy good company.
What decor goes on a coffee table?
Books, candles, plants, trays, and decorative objects.
What is the rule of thumb for a coffee table?
Keep it balanced with a few simple, functional items.
What can you put on top of a coffee table?
Books, candles, small plants, or decorative trays.
How to position coffee table in living room?
Place it 12-18 inches in front of your sofa for easy access.