Just like an island unit is to the kitchen, the coffee table is an anchor of your living space. A piece of furniture which pulls together a design scheme and creates a warm hub around which to congregate. Its also one of the main objects which draws your eye as you enter a room. So, it's important that from a styling perspective it doesn't get overlooked. Styling your coffee table decor is not a difficult or complicated process but neglecting it can leave a room feeling flat. We've created a few simple guidelines to help you create those finishing touches with ease and in very little time. So here are our top tips:
Balance The Look
Balance is what makes things look and feel comfortable. You can use symmetry to create balance or style your possessions asymmetrically. For symmetry, for example, you would place a feature piece in the middle of your coffee table and match heights of items either side. If you wanted a less formal look then go for asymmetry, which is much more popular these days. Remove the central piece, create height at one end and balance with a longer display of objects towards the other end. See images below.
Vignettes
A vignette is essentially a group of objects. A curated collection of some of your favourite pieces. Items which compliment each other well through colour palette, texture or shape. You should style these vignettes in groups of odd numbers. There really are no hard and fast rules of how to do this, it is really down to trial and error, using your naked eye and personal taste as your judge. For a vignette is all about adding your own personality to your home.
Space
Do not allow your objects to overpower your space. Yes, you want to create some height on your table but being able to see across it and engage with family and friends is also important. Filling a table to the edges also does not allow it to be used for practical purposes such as placing your drink or book down. So be wary of overcrowding it. Equally you should not fall into the trap of believing that a small coffee table should be decorated with small objects. Sometimes fewer but more bold pieces can have greater effect.
Cohesion
Whilst the coffee table is an individual piece of furniture, it is not an island! So styling it should take inspiration from the other elements around the room to form a cohesive look. Such as the natural materials that have been used, colour scheme, or overall style of room you are looking to achieve (Scandi, Industrial, Eclectic etc.). You wouldn't put a collection of brightly in your face garish pieces on the coffee table if you are aiming for a laid back modern coastal look.
The Stylists Best Friend
Finally if in doubt get a tray. A simple styling trick used by the professionals. Placing a tray on your coffee table and styling your objects inside is easy and effective. It brings together a collection. It's also practical, because if at any point you need more space then you can just lift it all off in one go.
We hope this helps with just a few simple tips and tricks of the trade. If you are looking for some stylish coffee table decor then here are our top 3 picks...
