One of the most common decorating questions I get is:
“What should I put in the middle of my coffee table?”
And the truth is, there isn’t just one right answer. The best coffee table styling starts with how you actually use your living room. A beautifully styled table that doesn’t fit your lifestyle will always feel slightly off.
Before adding anything, ask yourself one simple question:
What is this room for?
Your answer will determine what belongs in the center of your coffee table. Here are some ideas for some common ways living rooms are used and how to style them to fit that lifestyle. Let's get started!
If Your Living Room Is for Games & Family Time
If your home is the gathering place for puzzles, board games, or card nights, your coffee table needs to be practical first and decorative second.
Instead of delicate pieces that have to be moved every night, consider:
- A large tray that can be easily lifted off when it’s game time
- A decorative box to hold cards or small game pieces
- A stack of board games styled neatly
- A lidded basket underneath for quick storage
In this type of space, durability and flexibility matter most. Choose items that can handle everyday use and won’t feel frustrating to move.
Example:
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Similar suitecase:
If You Love Reading
If your living room is more of a cozy retreat, your coffee table can reflect that.
Some timeless ideas include:
- A stack of coffee table books (vary the sizes for interest)
- A small vase with simple greenery or seasonal stems
- A candle for warmth
- A decorative dish for glasses or bookmarks
Books instantly make a space feel layered and lived-in. They also add height and dimension, which keeps your table from looking flat.
Example:
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If You Love Entertaining
For homes that host often, your coffee table should feel welcoming and functional.
Try:
- A large tray to corral drink
- Attractive coasters
- A low floral arrangement
- A decorative bowl for snacks
Keep arrangements lower in height so guests can comfortably see and talk to one another. Balance beauty with usability.
Example:
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If It’s Primarily Everyday Living
Most homes fall into this category. You want your coffee table to look styled but still feel approachable.
A simple decorating formula I often use is:
- Something stacked (books or boxes)
- Something organic (flowers, greenery, wood beads)
- Something sculptural (a candle, bowl, or decorative object)
This combination creates balance and visual interest without overcomplicating things.
Another option is to corral items within a tray, but leaving one intentional item outside of it.
Example:
Consider Scale & Proportion
Scale makes all the difference.
- One tiny item centered on a large table will feel lost.
- A cluster of 3–5 items grouped intentionally feels balanced.
- A tray can anchor smaller items and make them feel cohesive.
If you have a large coffee table, don’t be afraid to go bigger with your arrangement. It often looks more intentional than several small scattered pieces.
Example:
Favorite Coffee Table Styling Ideas
Here are a few combinations that work beautifully in most homes:
- A wooden bowl filled with moss balls
- A stack of neutral-toned books with a brass candlestick
- A stone or ceramic vase with simple greenery
- A woven tray with a candle and decorative box
- A lidded box paired with a strand of wood beads
Each of these options feels styled but not overly formal.
Example:
Change It Seasonally
Your coffee table is a small area that can easily reflect the seasons.
- In winter: layer in deeper tones, wood elements, and cozy textures.
- In spring: lighten it up with fresh stems and softer colors.
- In summer: simplify and use glass or airy pieces.
- In fall: incorporate natural textures like wood, stone, or dried elements.
Small changes can refresh the entire room without a full redesign.
There isn’t a universal answer to what belongs in the middle of your coffee table. The right choice depends entirely on how you live in your space.
Start with function. Add beauty second. When those two things work together, your coffee table will always feel styled — and never staged.
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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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