How to Style your Coffee Table

Often the focal point of your living area or family room, coffee tables are both a functional catch-all for daily essentials, and an elevated styling surface for your space… and we like to think our team knows a thing or two about styling! We’re constantly being asked for tips, from built-in shelves to throw pillow combos. We’ve rounded up some of our tips and tricks for dressing up a coffee table to add intentional décor, without all the clutter. Plus, Shoppe Amber Interiors has a beautiful selection to choose from — from the table to the décor. So without further ado…

Picking the Right Coffee Table for your Space

Lay the foundation: When choosing a coffee table to compliment your space, there are many factors to consider. From size and shape to material and coloring, we’re here to break it all down for you.
Forecast function: Are you looking to add some additional storage to your space? Opt for a trunk or a coffee table with drawers or compartments. Looking to rest your feet after a long day? Opt for something with soft sides like an ottoman or bench.
Select shape: Consider the space you’re looking to fill — what is the size, shape, and flow? If you’re working with a sofa sectional, perhaps a square or rectangular coffee table would fit best. If your coffee table will be arranged in the middle of your other living room furniture, opt for a round or nested coffee table to optimize flow.
Ponder proportion: Correspond the length of your coffee table with that of your sofa. Choosing a coffee table that is about 3/4 the length of your sofa is a good rule of thumb. Likewise, when considering the height of the coffee table, keep it no higher than 1 inch above the seat and no lower than 3 inches below. Lastly, keeping 1.5 to 2 feet of space between all seating and the coffee table allows for freedom of movement and minimal crowding.
Seek style: From wood and stone to glass and upholstery, there’s a ton of options. We recommend selecting a material that aligns with your lifestyle and aesthetic. Is your coffee table sitting near a tv console? Perhaps round out the space by selecting a coffee table that matches. Looking to soften the space or add a little extra texture? Opt for an upholstered ottoman or a vintage piece that adds some charm.

How-To Style your Coffee Table

Style it out! Now that you’ve chosen the perfect coffee table for your space, let’s style.

Find your foundation: If you’re styling an ottoman, consider adding a throw blanket or fabric textile to add some layers. Fold cleanly and evenly, and place justified to one side. If you’re styling a coffee table, maybe opt for a large tray or a couple book stacks to anchor your styling.
Create your center: Add some height by selecting a large decorative object — this is where we like to add a beautiful vase and some seasonal florals. Select large, leafy florals that tie the space together and add a bit more character to your setup.
Add your accents: Now that you have the basic structure for your styling laid out, your focus should be on adding those smaller decorative pieces and finishing touches that make it all come together. Some of our favorite additions at this stage include candles, incense, catchalls for everyday objects, and other decorative objects.

Coffee tables, or ottomans that stand-in, are a delicate balance of functional and decorative. No space is thoughtfully designed without considering how both of these to-dos will come into play. We’ve included some of our favorite coffee tables, ottomans, and décor for your shopping ease below. Tag us on Instagram so we can see how you style your spaces! xx