How To Style a Coffee Table

If I had to pick my favorite piece in our house, it would have to be our coffee table. It is exactly what I hoped for when envisioning our living room and was the perfect size. I’ve received quite a few comments and questions on my snapchat [username: the teacher diva] regarding our coffee table and the accessories I use for decorating, so I thought it would be fun to share a whole post dedicated to coffee table styling!

Here are 5 easy steps I follow when decorating my coffee table:

Create Sections

So first and foremost, I like to utilize any trays or decorative bowls to make sections on the coffee table. I found this tray at Home Goods (similar white tray) and I love how it’s big enough to hold a few books and candles, yet doesn’t overpower the table. This is a great way to organize and display your favorite trinkets.

Stack Your Favorite Books

One of my favorite gifts to give (and receive) is a good coffee table book. We have them used throughout our entire house, and I still find myself looking to add more to our collection. Stacking your books on your coffee table will create contrast and a pop of color to an otherwise neutral palette. If you’re on a budget (books can be expensive) try stacking your favorite magazines. They can still create the same feel, but be careful, too many can look “junky”.

Create Levels

This is a trick our friend (and decorator) shared with us last Fall. She told us that making levels will  create balance to our table. You can see that I like to use books, but I also add a tall vase (with or without flowers) to add height to our table. I try to keep the rule of three by adding a Diptyque Candle and my Pineapple Matchbox (thanks, Katey!)  with the vase.

Utilize your Candles

So I know this may seem like candle overload, but I’ve actually grown to like this look. I obviously don’t light them all at once, but it is nice to have a variety to chose from depending on the day or mood. If you are going to use candles or candle jars in your tray, be sure to find some with variety. I mixed a few votives and textured candle jars to add some color and contrast to my tray. I also love the idea of using a candle jar to hold matchsticks (especially, if it’s pricey like the Diptyque Candle). What a great way to reuse your favorite jar!

Know Your Colors

Choosing a color palette is key. I like to keep things pretty neutral, but we do have pops of color throughout the living room. I wanted my books and trinkets to compliment those colors. When decorating your coffee table, be conscious of the colors used throughout the room.

Thanks so much for stopping by! Let me know what you think and if you would like to see more home posts on The Teacher Diva. xx Ashley

ROOM DETAILS: coffee table //Pottery Barn Brooklyn Sofa (we went with the Grand Sofa in White Twill. This has been the easiest to keep clean and care for. Obviously we are very careful since it is white, but we have been very impressed with the quality) //  spike sea urchin // kate spade book // fashion book // matchstick holder // various knick-knacks found at Home Goods // Diamond Shag Rug // Leopard Pillows // white faux fur pillows (24 X 24) // Black Pillows // Gold Lamps (we found those on major sale, here is a similar lamp) // Wall Art // frames are from Ikea // Chanel Book Set