From trays and trinkets to shells and books, it's time to experiment with your coffee table decor and turn a blank canvas into a fabulous feature
Styling the centerpiece of your room can be a bit of an art when you're after more than just a vase of flowers. But it can also be the perfect opportunity to let your inner interior stylist loose.
Coffee tables are functional and throughout their life will likely house everything from empty coffee mugs to remote controls. While these basic storage requirements are important, there's no reason why you can't add some flair to yours.
You can't go wrong with the timeless combination of candles and flowers but other welcome additions can include books, table runners and succulents. The limit is really only your imagination but try a mix of different textures, heights and colors to create balance.
Here are some of our favorite ways to jazz up a plain coffee table...
Go for the bold accessory
Spark conversation with bigger table dressings such as segments of coral. A large piece can be the star of the show in the middle or, alternatively, dot smaller chunks around to play with a variety of heights.
Get organized with a tray
Whether you want to display your favorite accessories or just need a place to keep your TV remote, a tray will mean that your table always looks tidy and it can also prevent wear and tear on the tabletop.
If you're struggling to make everything work together, take all your items and stick within the confines of the tray. If something doesn't fit, it's time to get rid of it.
Go for a simple statement piece
If your table is enough of a style statement on its own and you don't want it to be overshadowed, opt for one solitary piece in the center of the space.
A sculpture or vase holding your favorite blooms or greenery is all it takes to complete the living room for an understated yet stylish look.
Mix and match
Go for a maximalist look with bright colors and accessories. Mixing circular and square shapes plays with form but at the same time leaves you with a classic combination.
For a cohesive look stick to a color scheme and pick some statement pieces that will really stand out against the rest of the display.
Pile up the books
A great accessory for your coffee table, it's best to choose books with bold text and colorful covers. Opt for glossy hardbacks with bright covers or show off your personality and interests (the Chanel book is a firm favorite).
They don't have to be arranged symmetrically either; you can stack them at different heights for an effortless look and add small trinkets, just like Kourtney Kardashian has done here.
Follow the rule of three
For an easy way to get a stylish display, use a tall central object such as flowers in the center and place two shorter items like books or candles either side to balance it out.
They don't have to be identical items but should be similar in terms of size and height for the perfect look.
Layer it up with a runner
Good coffee table decor is made up of layers and a runner makes a great foundation which you can build upon for the completed look.
For a rustic style similar to this one, go for a macrame base and stack natural materials and colors on top.
Head back to nature
If you aren't keen on huge vases of flowers and colorful accessories, opt for something more natural.
A small terrarium and some pine cones can give your design a completely new lease of life without being over the top. Arrange everything on a tree trunk cutting in a similar way you would a tray.
Don't forget about levels
If you have a glass table with shelves it's not just about what goes on top, but also what goes underneath.
For a symmetrical design on the bottom, add books on one side and a lidded storage box on the other. This will add height and come in handy for storing your gadgets.
With the bottom sorted, the top is up to you!
Main image: @klvhome / Instagram
Love this? Check out these...
Barn doors: The rustic trend that's sliding into homes fast
Fringing: the cowboy trend that's huge in homewares this year