What to Put on a Coffee Table

Wondering what to put on a coffee table? You’re not alone!

What to Put on a Coffee Table

A coffee table is more than just a place to put your coffee cup. It’s the centerpiece of your living room, and it should be decorated accordingly!

If you’re not sure how to decorate your coffee table, never fear. Here are five easy ways to make sure your coffee table looks its best.

Love coffee tables? Make sure to check out our sled coffee table design before you go!

How to Decorate a Coffee Table

1. Start with a tray.

A tray is a great way to anchor your decor and keep it from looking too cluttered. Plus, it’s an easy way to change up your look whenever you want. Just switch out the items on the tray for a fresh new look.

2. Add some greenery.

A plant or some flowers are always a welcome addition to any room. Choose something that fits your style and that you can keep alive (no one wants a dead plant on their coffee table!).

3. Incorporate interesting textures.

Your coffee table is the perfect place to experiment with different textures. Try adding a fur throw blanket or a basket filled with pillow covers for a cozy touch.

4. Use family photos.

Personalize your space by adding some family photos to the mix. Choose frames that complement the other elements on your coffee table.

5. Think outside the box.

Your coffee table is a great place to display some of your favorite things, so get creative! If you collect recipe books, swap them out seasonally or whenever you want to try something new in the kitchen.

6. Stick to a theme.

If you’re really struggling with what to put on your coffee table, try sticking to a theme. Choose a color scheme or style and run with it. This will make your decorating process much easier.

7. Get help from a professional.

Still not sure how to decorate your coffee table? Hire a professional! A designer can help you achieve the perfect look for your home.

Now that you know what to put on a coffee table, it’s time to get started! Choose the items that fit your style and make your coffee table look its best.

Loving this post? Check out this other article on coffee table height before you leave!

More Common Coffee Table Decorations

1. Candles

Candles are a classic way to add both light and ambiance to a room, and they’re perfect for coffee tables. To avoid your candles looking like an afterthought, group them together in odd numbers and vary the heights.

For example, try three tall candles flanked by two shorter ones. Or, if you’re using pillar candles, place them on top of a pretty tray or Pottery Barn catch-all. Add some greenery or flowers for an extra pop of color and you’re good to go!

2. Books

Books are another great way to decorate your coffee table. Not only do they look good, but they’re also functional — visitors can flip through them while they wait for you to finish getting ready or chat with you about your latest read.

For the best results, choose books that reflect your interests or that have beautiful covers. If you’re short on space, opt for a small stack of hardcovers or try a leopard print book.

Pro tip: Coordinate the color of your books with the other elements on your coffee table for a put-together look.

3. Trays and Catchalls 

Trays and catchalls are ideal for organizing small items like coasters, TV remotes, and digital frames. They also help prevent your coffee table from looking cluttered.

When choosing a tray or catchall, look for something that coordinates with the other elements on your coffee table — metal trays work well with candles, while wooden ones pair nicely with books.

4. Flowers and Greenery 

Fresh flowers and greenery are always a welcomed addition to any space, and they can really help brighten up a room. For coffee tables, consider choosing small arrangements or potted plants that won’t take up too much space.

Cacti and succulents are also great options because they’re low-maintenance (just make sure to put them in pots with drainage holes!). If you don’t have time to run out and buy fresh flowers every week, there are plenty of beautiful artificial options available these days — just check out your local craft store or home goods store. 

5. Knick-Knacks

Last but not least, don’t be afraid to incorporate some personal touches into your coffee table decorating — after all, part of the fun of decorating is making it unique to you!

Consider adding framed photos, meaningful objet d’art, or even just some fun knick-knacks that reflect your personality. Just be careful not to go overboard — a few carefully curated pieces will go a long way towards making your coffee table feel like home.

Closing on Coffee Table Decor

Decorating your coffee table doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Just start with a tray, add some greenery, incorporate interesting textures, use family photos, and think outside the box for some unique ideas that will reflect your personal style perfectly!

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