Let’s dive in to the world of how to decorate a center table in the living room. We’ll unravel 39+ secrets used by interior designers…like me :), to create a stunning focal point in your living room.
From the timeless allure of coffee table books to the organic beauty of natural elements, we’ll explore a few basic rules of thumb, and various themes and styles that cater to every taste and every table.
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Whether you’re drawn to a minimalist aesthetic, coastal grandmother charm, or a sleek modern look, I have pulled together a bunch of beautiful looks, and provided tips that promise to transform the overall feel of your living room, the easy way! Read on as we explore color schemes, different materials, and stunning arrangements, to take your center tablet to the next level.
Use Odd Numbers: When arranging decorative items on your coffee table, stick to odd numbers. This simple rule used in design creates interest and visual tension, keeping the eye moving around the “canvas.”
Vary Heights: Mix up the heights of your decorative pieces to create depth. Combining taller items with shorter items adds a dynamic quality to the arrangement, preventing it from looking flat.
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Mix Shapes: Avoid monotony by incorporating a variety of shapes into your coffee table decor. Combine round, square, rectangular, and organic objects for a well-balanced and engaging display.
Use Diverse Textures and Materials: Add richness to your decor by using different textures and materials. I like to avoid placing similar materials on top of each other, such as glass on glass, or metal on metal. If you decide to use the same materials, vary the color or finish so that the items don’t get lost visually.
Vary Sizes and Scale: Achieve a pleasing visual balance by mixing large and small decorative items. Start with a focal point, and pair statement pieces with smaller accents to create a well-proportioned and harmonious arrangement.
Consider Every Angle: Make sure your coffee table decor looks good from every angle. I avoid using photo frames for this reason.
Round Center Table: Use a round table for ease of flow in the room. It’s much easier to move around the space without table corners. Round tables are perfect for creating an inviting and sociable ambiance.
Square Center Table: A great way to organize your decor on a square table is by dividing the table into four sections on your coffee table. This helps maintain order and balance within the arrangement, ensuring each element has its place while contributing to an overall cohesive design.
Additionally, applying the triangle rule also works well on a square coffee table.
Rectangular Center Table or Oval Shaped Center Tables: Rectangular center tables or oval shaped tables work well in spaces that have a walking path in front of the sofa. Use the square table tips shown above adding two more sections totaling six, or dividing it in three sections down the middle. The triangle method also works well for rectangular center tables.
Organic Shaped Center Table:
For organic-shaped tables use the triangle rule or single centerpiece.
Showcase a curated collection of your favorite books. Books should be visually appealing, show your personal interests, and spark conversation. Incorporating small and large books in groupings or in a single stack.
Infuse your space with the beauty of nature by incorporating elements like a vase with sprigs and wooden decor accents for a grounded vibe to your living room.
Grouping like items together creates visual harmony and organization. By clustering similar objects you establish a cohesive aesthetic, reflecting your personal style.
Optimize limited space with a compact yet stylish center table. Styling it with a simple vase and a couple of books is all it needs!
Combine functionality with style by integrating storage solutions that enhance the overall look of your center table keeping it clutter-free. Keep remote controls and odds and ends organized and within easy reach.
Bring nature indoors with the addition of plants, adding a refreshing element to your center table arrangement while promoting clean air.
Take a cue from the hues on your walls, furniture, or accent pieces, and infuse those colors into your center table accessories. Whether it’s vibrant coasters, a decorative tray, or even a simple vase with coordinating flowers, aligning your coffee table decor with your room’s color palette can instantly tie the space together.
Utilize a spacious tray or bowl as a focal point, organizing and displaying a collection of decorative items clutter-free.
Add a touch of elegance with transparent glass vases, allowing for creative floral arrangements or sprigs to finish the look. If you have a glass coffee table, add more contrast to the arrangement by using a colored glass vase or add a decorative filler such as sea shells or moss.
Bringing in the beauty and fragrance of fresh flowers is always a great idea for a center table. Fresh flowers can help to reduce depression and stress!
Introduce a sensory experience with a scented candle in a decorative jar, infusing your living room with the fragrance you love.
Feature unique and intriguing items that serve as a conversation starter, and adding personality to your decor.
Display interesting sculptural pieces that double as art, adding a sophisticated touch to your center table arrangement.
A retro game or elegant checkers or tic-tac-toe set not only add a unique design element, but also invite play.
Introduce a bold and eye-catching pop of color to your center table, creating a focal point that draws attention and adds personality to your living room.
Opt for a sleek and contemporary aesthetic with clean lines, and modern materials, creating a chic and sophisticated center table display.
When working with matching high and low tables, (or nesting style tables), varying the height, shape, and texture of the items breaks up the monotony of the matching tables.
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Arrange decorative elements in cohesive groupings to create a sense of unity and symmetry.
Large decorative objects like tall vases full of flowers, make a big impression. A living room with tall ceiling is a great place to implement this look.
Infuse a touch of warmth with shimmering white candles, creating an elegant and serene atmosphere in your living room.
The same basic principles apply based on the shape of your ottoman. Using a large tray for your decorative items on a center ottoman make it easy to move when you want to put your feet up.
Maximize storage and display space with a two-tier table, providing an opportunity to showcase a variety of decorative pieces in an organized manner.
Embrace simplicity with a minimalist approach, creating a clutter-free center table arrangement.
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Make a bold statement with a maximalist approach, incorporating an abundance of decor elements for a rich and eclectic coffee table display.
Channel coastal vibes with a touch of vintage charm, incorporating nautical decor and timeless pieces for a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Blend contemporary style with sleek coastal elements, creating a fresh and relaxed ambiance inspired by the seaside.
Embrace timeless elegance with a traditional center table decor, featuring classic motifs and refined details for a sophisticated look.
Combine elements of both traditional and modern styles for a center table that gives a more casual vibe.
Create a display of cherished memories by incorporating personal mementos, or photos.
A simple low vase on the center table allows the fireplace focal point to take center stage in this elegant formal living room.
Capture the rustic charm of a farmhouse with distressed wood, vintage accents, and earthy tones for a warm and welcoming center table display.
It’s the happiest design trend out there, and I’m here for it! The only rule is, decorate with what brings you joy! Think of your teenage bedroom with the posters on the walls and the things around your room that made you happy surrounding you. Bright colors, fun patterns, and whimsy, that’s how it’s done.
Infuse a glamorous look on your center coffee table with metallic accents, glass candlesticks, florals and sleek storage boxes, creating a chic and opulent center table arrangement.
Embrace the iconic style of the mid-century era with clean lines and retro-inspired design. Stick to choices with a low profile, soft curves, modern shapes and minimalist materials for this style.
Incorporate vintage elements and nostalgic pieces to bring a sense of history and character to your center table for a one-of-a-kind look.
For glass top center tables, choose decor that doesn’t get lost. Contrast with materials or color.
Because live edge tables are so beautiful with rustic character and graining all on their own, keep the decor minimal. One item, or three smaller items will work wonderfully.
Choose decor pieces with clean lines, neutral tones, and subtle textures. This approach will maintain a modern and sophisticated feel while highlighting the industrial charm of the concrete table.
Home Goods: Known for its diverse range of affordable home decor items, Home Goods always has a fresh stock of stylish center table decorations like vases, coffee table books, sculptural items, candles, and trays, at an affordable price.
World Market: A mix of global-inspired decor at affordable prices.
Etsy: Etsy’s online marketplace is a favorite for handmade and customized decor. Artisans and crafters sell unique and personalized items.
West Elm: For contemporary, urban edge, mid-century style decor. West Elm sources materials that are eco-friendly and ethically obtained.
Pottery Barn: For a blend of classic style with an heirloom character.
Serena and Lily: A great resource for coastal inspired decor.
Target: Target’s home decor section features popular brands such as Hearth & Hand with Magnolia, and Studio McGee.
Local Boutiques. Antique Shops and Artisan Markets: I love to explore local boutiques, artisan markets, and antique shops for one-of-a-kind center table decorations.
Mix and match these themes based on your own preferences and create the center table decor that reflects your personal style.
And there you have it – 39 easy coffee table decor ideas to step up your living room game. Your coffee table is no longer just a place for remotes – it’s a style statement waiting to happen. So, throw on some cool books, or add a touch of green, and let your living room vibe speak for itself. Easy, simple, and effortlessly cool.
Hi, I’m Carla
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2 Responses
These Center Table Decor Ideas are a game-changer for sprucing up my living room! From elegant floral arrangements to chic DIY projects, there’s something for every style and budget. Can’t wait to try out some of these tips to create a cozy and inviting space. Thanks for the inspiration
These center table decor ideas are so stylish—love the tips