How to Style Your Coffee Table
Many people tend to underestimate the importance of a stylish-looking coffee table. Not only is it the centerpiece of most living rooms, but it can also be used as an art-like piece or somewhere that holds special importance to you.
Styling a coffee table isnât too hard either; there are a few rules you can follow that will allow you to have a super-stylish coffee table and one that suits your personal taste.
Odds Numbers
Whether styling marble top coffee tables or simple wooden square ones, a great rule of thumb is to style with odd numbers. Many experts and designers agree that having an odd number of decorations or objects on a table or bookshelf satisfies the eye.
While you can choose which objects you want, stick to the idea of one small, medium, and large item. This simple rule will give your table style and depth with barely any effort.
Varying Heights
As mentioned, if you have different-sized items, you will have different heights too. You can also stack items to create height; you can use books, magazines, or something similar. This will create depth to the look while keeping the footprint relatively small.
Depending on the height of the table, it is also important to note that you donât make anything too tall. You donât have to make the line of sight on any side, as this isnât great for when you have people over.
Trays
Trays are a brilliant way to add a contrasting shape, a different color, or a different texture to a table. They can also be used to hold items and can be seen as an accent or as a decorative piece, all on their own.
Books
Books are the default tabletop decoration for a reason. They are simple, can convey a message, they are functional, but they can also be pretty and decorative. The books you have on your table can also convey the type of person you are.
There is no need to have an entire library on display, but you can have a selection of books that are different sizes, are color-coded, or share a similar theme.
Plants
While not necessarily a singular idea, plants are a brilliant addition to any coffee table, no matter your style or the style of the room. They will bring freshness and color into the space, especially if you match the colors with other decorations.
There are also several plants that do more than just look good, as they clean the air and leave your face feeling fresh all day long.
Make it Personal
Even though you are making it stylish, your coffee table should still be a reflection of you, your family, and your loved ones. Make it personal by adding a photo or two of your kids, partner, or dog, or maybe have a photo album as a coffee table book.
Make it a Centerpiece/Room Divider
Finally, a coffee table can be used as a centerpiece of the room, but it can also be used as a great room divider. Depending on the type of space you have, it can be used to split the space between the dining room and living room or the kitchen and living room.
How to Pick the Perfect Coffee Table
Next, here are a few tips for picking the perfect table, as there are a few things to consider to ensure you pick the right one.
Height
The first thing to consider is the height of the table. A simple rule is to keep the table height relative to the height of the chairs and couches around it. This ensures that you can comfortably reach it when youâre sitting, but it isnât so tall that it becomes an obstruction.
Size/Proportions
Next, you need to be acutely aware of the size and proportions of the table relative to the room it is going to be in. While a coffee table doesnât have to be big, you donât want it to be so small that it becomes pointless.
When it comes to length, many experts believe choosing a table that has a length that is two-thirds of your couch is a solid size. The width can vary, but it is important to remember that rectangular tables will always be better as they are more accessible from your couches.
Shape
As mentioned, rectangular is a great shape to choose from and is the one best suited to most spaces. However, if you want to choose something different, you need to be aware of how it will change the flow and feel of the room.
If you want something different, a great idea is to use paper or other furniture to lay out the shape and then walk around it, sit, and see how it feels in the space.
Storage Options
Finally, a coffee table with storage will almost always be better than one without, especially if you need it to be more functional. Whether it is drawers are shelves, storage is very useful.