How Can You Make Your Coffee Table Look Better?
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Time to read 6 min
Hello lovely readers! As an interior designer with over a decade of experience styling British homes, I've seen countless coffee tables that could use a bit of love.
Rather like choosing the perfect outfit, styling your coffee table is all about balance, personality, and that certain je ne sais quoi (pardon my French!). Today, I'm thrilled to share my professional insights on turning your coffee table from a simple surface for cups and remotes into a stunning focal point of your living space.
Table of Contents
Paint or Stain: The Great Coffee Table Transformation Debate What to Put in the Middle of Your Coffee Table Styling Your Coffee Table: The Art of Arrangement Our Most Popular Coffee Tables How Can You Make Your Coffee Table Look Better? Your Path to Success How Can You Make Your Coffee Table Look Better? Your Questions Answered Related Readings
Paint or Stain: The Great Coffee Table Transformation Debate
Let's chat about one of the most common questions I receive in my design studio - should you paint or stain your coffee table?
The answer largely depends on your existing decor and the table's material. If you've got a solid wood piece (particularly those lovely pine tables so common in British homes), staining can enhance the natural beauty of the grain while providing protection.
I recently worked with a client in Bath who inherited a rather tired-looking oak coffee table. Instead of covering up its character with paint, we opted for a rich walnut stain that transformed it into a stunning conversation piece. The wood's natural patterns now add depth and interest to their sitting room.
However, painting might be your best bet if you're working with MDF or if you're after a specific colour to complement your scheme. Remember that chalk paint (which has become incredibly popular here in the UK) can give you that gorgeous matte finish that works brilliantly in both contemporary and traditional spaces.
Looking for Inspiration? Check out our Popular Solid Wood Coffee Table Collection
What to Put in the Middle of Your Coffee Table
The centre of your coffee table deserves special attention - it's rather like the main character in your living room's story. While traditional wisdom might suggest a single centrepiece, I prefer creating what we in the trade call a 'focal arrangement'.
Start with a tray or low bowl as your anchor piece. This not only creates a defined space but also makes it easier to move everything when you need to clear the table for afternoon tea (because let's be honest, that's what coffee tables are really for in British homes!).
Here's a handy reference guide for typical coffee table centrepiece heights:
| Item Type | Ideal Height | Best Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vases | 20-30 cm | Centre | Keep below eye level when seated |
| Stack of Books | 8-12 cm | Off-centre | 3-4 books maximum |
| Decorative Bowl | 8-15 cm | Centre/Off-centre | Should not dominate |
| Candles | 10-20 cm | Various | Mix heights for interest |
| Plants/Greenery | 15-25 cm | Any | Consider trailing plants |
Styling Your Coffee Table: The Art of Arrangement
When it comes to what looks nice on a coffee table, think in terms of layers and heights. Start with your larger items and work your way down to smaller decorative pieces. I always tell my clients to imagine they're creating a tiny landscape - you want hills and valleys, if you will.
Here are my tried-and-tested elements for the perfect coffee table display:
- Something tall (like a vase with seasonal blooms or grasses)
- Something natural (a small plant or organic element)
- Something practical (a beautiful box or tray for remotes)
- Something personal (family photos or treasured objects)
- Something that adds texture (think ceramics or metallic pieces)
The key is to avoid overcrowding. Your coffee table shouldn't look like a jumble sale display (though we all love a good British jumble sale!). Leave enough negative space for actual use - remember, you'll want room for that cuppa and the Sunday paper.
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How to Style a Coffee Table the British Way
Here in the UK, we have our own particular way of approaching coffee table styling. It's less about following rigid American-style rules and more about creating a comfortable, lived-in look that reflects our love of mixing old and new.
I always encourage incorporating elements that speak to British sensibilities - perhaps a vintage tea caddy repurposed as a remote control holder, or a lovely bone china dish for keys and coins. The beauty of British styling is in its subtle sophistication and ability to tell a story through carefully chosen pieces.
Layer in some current magazines (not too many - three is plenty), and consider seasonal touches like spring bulbs in vintage silver vessels or autumn leaves in a modern glass bowl. It's about creating a look that feels both curated and comfortable.
Our Most Popular Coffee Tables
How Can You Make Your Coffee Table Look Better? Your Path to Success
Let's turn all these styling tips into action. Start by clearing everything off your coffee table - yes, everything!
Then place your anchor piece (remember that lovely tray or bowl we discussed) slightly off-centre. Add your tallest item first, whether that's a vase of flowers or a sculptural piece, positioning it within or near your anchor piece.
Layer in your remaining items gradually, stepping back occasionally to check the overall balance.
The transformation of your coffee table isn't complete without considering the practical aspects of daily life. Keep a clear space for those cups of tea and ensure any books or magazines are easily accessible.
I always suggest taking a photo of your styled arrangement - it helps you recreate it quickly after those inevitable times when the coffee table needs to be cleared for family game night or a takeaway dinner.
Here's what makes a coffee table look its absolute best:
- Create layers of interest through varying heights and textures, anchored by a central piece that draws the eye
- Include both practical and decorative elements, ensuring at least 30% of the surface remains clear for daily use
- Maintain flexibility in your styling, with seasonal touches and easily moveable pieces that allow your coffee table to adapt to your lifestyle
How Can You Make Your Coffee Table Look Better? Your Questions Answered
What is the most important rule for styling a coffee table?
The golden rule is maintaining balance between decorative and functional elements. Your coffee table should look beautiful while still having space for practical use.
How often should I change my coffee table styling?
Refresh your coffee table decor seasonally or every 3-4 months. This keeps your space feeling dynamic and allows you to incorporate seasonal elements naturally.
What size tray should I use on my coffee table?
Choose a tray that covers approximately one-third to one-half of your table's surface area. This provides enough space for styling while leaving room for practical use.
Can I mix metallic finishes on my coffee table?
Absolutely - mixing metals adds visual interest and depth. Just stick to 2-3 different metallic finishes to maintain cohesion.
How do I style a small coffee table?
Focus on one main focal point and two smaller accessories. Scale is crucial - refer to our height guide in the table above for appropriate sizing.
Should coffee table books be stacked or laid flat?
Try both - stack 2-3 books horizontally and lean one against them vertically for visual interest. This creates an engaging display while maintaining functionality.
What's the best lighting for highlighting coffee table decor?
Layer your room lighting with a mix of overhead and table lamps. This creates ambient light that enhances your styling without harsh shadows.
What's the ideal number of items for coffee table styling?
Follow the rule of odd numbers, typically grouping 3-5 items together. This creates visual interest without overcrowding ( source: Wikipedia - Table Decorating ).
Should I match my coffee table decor to my room's colour scheme?
Incorporate 2-3 colours from your room's palette while adding one contrasting accent for interest. This creates cohesion without being too matchy-matchy.
How do I maintain symmetry in coffee table styling?
Create balanced asymmetry by varying heights and weights of objects rather than perfect symmetry. This looks more natural and inviting.
