We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
1Find a coffee table you love
Casa by Josephine Jenno"Coffee tables can become the centrepiece of any sitting room, especially if you make a feature out of them,' says Good Housekeeping's Homes Editor James Cunningham. "Dimensions are key, though, so always think about the size of your coffee table in relation to the sofa, armchairs and any other furniture in the room. If you're looking to buy a new one, mark the measurements out on your floor using masking tape to make sure you're happy with how much space it takes up. A circular design can be effective in rooms with less square footage, as curved edges will take up less space than rectangular ones."
2Work out the function of your coffee table
NeptuneGood Housekeeping's Homes Writer Christina Geggus says: "Coffee tables aren't just places we should fill with clutter! If filled with personalised items, they will soon become master pieces in your home. So it's key to work out how you plan to use your coffee table. Is it place where you like to read and lay out all your favourite books? Or is it an area where you enjoy entertaining when guests are round? The choices are simply endless."
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
3Match your coffee table décor to the colour scheme
NeptuneThere's nothing better than a beautiful living room says our Homes Editor James. He says: "If you're looking to create a co-ordinated scheme, accessorise your tabletop with pieces that are in the same shades as other elements in your room. A simple monochrome palette can be made all the more interesting by mixing textures - handcrafted stoneware, recycled glass vases and metallic trinkets will add a layer of interest in even the most pared-back of spaces."
4Add flowers to your coffee table
ROB SANDERSONBrand Director for Addison Ross, Sarah Ross reveals that flowers are a key component when designing your coffee table. She said: "For a sophisticated coffee table, layering and elevation is key. You’ll want to make sure you have different heights on your setting to make the centre of your room feels visually engaging and glamorous. Therefore, to really elevate the space, use a low jug or a vase of flowers in the centre of your table, as this will add height and seasonal freshness to your setting."
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
5Add a candle to your coffee table
UK-Laydown1Homes Writer Christina says: "There's no better feeling than lighting a scented candle at the end of the day. If your coffee table is a place to relax and kick back, opt for heavier notes that linger in a room for longer, for examples notes including patchouli, ambers and woods. My favourite candle to relax is Neom's Happiness candle."
Buy the Neom Organics Happiness Candle HERE
6Find a gorgeous tray
Addison RossSeeing as John Lewis confirmed that the search for trays is up 52% from last year, as more of us are now looking for ways to update our coffee tables each season. Sarah Ross from Addison Ross says: "The trick to styling a chic coffee table is to use larger objects like a tray, rather than smaller accessories that can get lost. That’s why using a large tray or book in the corners creates a great base on which to build on. Then, to create depth and sculpture, adding a few bowls will really ground the whole table whilst adding texture."
Buy Addison Ross' Chambray Blue Small Round Scallop Tray HERE
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7Try tray-scaping
John LewisJohn Lewis & Partners' home design stylist Felicity Burton says: "If you're looking for a quick and easy way to update your living room, give tray-scaping a go. Grabbing a statement tray and gathering some of your most cherished possessions is a simple way to bring a fresh new look to your coffee table. A few simple 'rules' to follow when styling your tray: stick to odd numbers with your treasures, three always looks better than two and mix up the heights for added visual appeal. Try tall candles, stacked books and trinket dishes."
Shop John Lewis' Scalloped Edge Tray HERE
8Create a theme to your tray-scape
Casa by Josephine JennoIf you want to go the extra mile with your tray-scaping, try to give your tray a tonal theme or specific purpose. GH Homes Writer says: "I love the idea of your coffee table decor having a theme, particularly your tray-scapes. This gorgeous after-hours drinks tray will add a luxurious feel to your tablescape and is the perfect way to show off and enjoy your favourite glassware."
Find our favourite affordable ridged gin glasses HERE
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
9Decorate your coffee table seasonally
Oak FurniturelandWhat's so wonderful about designing your coffee table is that it can easily evolve throughout the different season. Our Homes Editor James says: "It could be as simple as changing your centrepiece. A vase bursting with tulips will be a springtime focal point while an oversized clam shell (we're fans of the decorative one at Rockett St George), bursting with lemons, will transport your coffee table to sunnier climes come summer. In autumn, why not go for a pumpkin or two? At Christmas, a statement bowl full of glittering baubles will set a celebratory tone."
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below