10 Coffee Table Decor Ideas To Make Your Home Look Expensive
Is your coffee table feeling empty, cluttered, or just kind of boring? You’re not alone. Coffee table decor ideas seem simple at first, but getting that high-end, designer look? That’s where most people get stuck.
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In this post, I’m sharing 10 tried-and-true coffee table styling tips that will instantly elevate your space and make your home look more polished and expensive, without the designer price tag.
From layering books and greenery to mixing shapes and textures, these tips are easy to apply, no matter your style. Whether your vibe is modern, cozy, or minimal, you’ll walk away with plenty of ideas to try.
Make sure to read to the end, because Tip #10 is a foolproof formula that works every time, no matter your table shape or size.
Let’s jump in!
This post is all about coffee table decor ideas that look expensive.
READ MORE>>> Home Decor Inspiration On Inspired Design Talk 2025
Tip 1: Stack Coffee Table Books for Height
Coffee table books are the foundation of almost every designer-styled vignette. If you have a few favorite books, now’s the time to use them!
Use 2–3 oversized, neutral, or designer-inspired books to ground your decor. Stick to topics like fashion, interior design, or architecture for a curated, high-end feel.
You can use books to:
- Anchor your decor in a stack of three
- Add a pop of color
- Style solo for a clean, minimal vibe
I’ve been eyeing this acrylic book display stand for a while, but haven’t pulled the trigger yet. I keep hoping I’ll find it at HomeGoods for $20… but it hasn’t happened!
I linked the one I like from Amazon above, so you can check it out. And if you don’t have a coffee table book collection yet, I saved my favorites to my Amazon Storefront. They’re not only beautiful to style with but also full of helpful design tips.
Tip 2: Use a Tray to Anchor Your Arrangement
A tray keeps your coffee table styling intentional, not cluttered. Choose a tray that complements your table—think marble, wood, rattan, lacquer, or mirrored finishes.
Styling Ideas for Trays:
- Stack a few books inside
- Add candles, greenery, or flowers
- Hold remotes in a beautiful way
If you’re styling an upholstered ottoman, a large tray is essential for creating a flat surface.
Pro Tip: Use a round tray on a square table or a rectangular tray on a round table to add contrast and visual interest.
Not sure what your style is yet? Take my free style quiz (linked below) to find your design personality. This will help you choose tray materials and colors that actually work with your space.
You can go neutral for timeless appeal, or choose a bold tray to make a statement. It really depends on how much visual weight you want the tray to carry.
Tip 3: Add a Sculptural Object or Knot
Sculptural decor instantly adds personality and dimension. A ceramic knot, marble chain, or abstract object elevates the space and adds texture.
These objects can:
- Create a focal point
- Break up flat surfaces
- Add a gallery-inspired touch
Whether you go bold or neutral, this is one of the simplest ways to make your coffee table look expensive.
Even just two sculptural objects paired with a coffee table book can create a beautifully styled moment. This is the kind of effortless styling you see in designer showrooms.
If you’re styling a coffee table on a budget, don’t miss these Affordable HomeGoods finds that look expensive—including trays, vases, and decorative objects.
Tip 4: Balance Shapes—Mix Round and Square
Mixing shapes keeps your coffee table decor from feeling flat or predictable. Designer spaces almost always include a mix of round and square elements.
Try this:
- Add a square tray or box to a round table
- Use a curved vase or round bowl on a square table
Adding organic forms, natural textures, or sculptural pieces helps the space feel balanced and intentional.
Even your coasters can make a difference! Skip the basic plastic ones and try marble, agate, or leather instead. Those little touches go a long way.
Tip 5: Use a Neutral Palette with One Accent Color
A neutral foundation is a signature of luxury spaces. Start with shades like white, beige, black, and wood tones, then layer in one intentional pop of color.
Ways to add accent color:
- Florals or greenery
- Sculptural objects
- Colored glass or vases
Example: A gold hand vase with fresh flowers or soft blue stems in a crystal vase from Trader Joe’s—high impact, low cost.
I recently styled a 20-year-old crystal vase (a gift from my aunt) with a $10 bouquet, and it looked like something out of a high-end showroom. This just proves you don’t need to spend a lot to make your space look luxe.
Tip 6: Include Fresh or Faux Greenery on Your Coffee Table
Greenery brings life, texture, and a touch of nature to your space. Use real stems like eucalyptus or olive branches, or opt for faux if you want something maintenance-free.
Ideas for Greenery Styling:
- A small bud vase with stems
- A potted plant in a unique vessel
- Tonal arrangements that blend into your palette
Greenery is simple but powerful. It softens your decor and makes it feel warm and complete. And it’s super easy to switch out seasonally.
For spring and summer, go light and airy. In fall, bring in deeper tones. This small switch keeps your coffee table styling feeling fresh year-round.
Tip 7: Use a Decorative Bowl With an Interesting Shape
A decorative bowl can be a statement piece all on its own. Look for bowls with a sculptural, raised, or organic shape to bring visual interest.
Try styling with:
- Moss balls or wood beads
- Floating candles or dried flowers
- Decorative orbs or fruit for entertaining
Pro Tip: Leave the bowl empty if it has great shape—sometimes form alone makes the statement.
Bowls made of ceramic, glass, metal, or natural wood all bring something unique. And if you find a vintage piece at a flea market or estate sale, even better!
Tip 8: Create Levels with Height Variation
Nothing screams “flat” like decor all at the same height. Layering tall, medium, and short pieces keeps the eye moving and your table interesting.
Examples of height variation:
- Tall: Candlesticks or a vase
- Medium: Decorative box or bowl
- Short: Book stack with a small object
Pro Tip: Use books to elevate smaller items or vases. Step back and adjust your arrangement until it feels balanced.
Decorative boxes are especially useful. They look great and hide remotes or small clutter. Try stacking a box on books or tucking it beside a vase for a polished look.
Tip 9: Include Something Personal or Quirky
Your coffee table isn’t just for looks—it’s a place to show off your personality.
Personal or quirky touches can include:
- A framed photo or art card
- A souvenir from travel
- A fun matchbox or tiny sculpture
These small details make your space feel lived in, loved, and uniquely yours.
Love games? Add a lucite Jenga set or a stylish tic-tac-toe board. Love yoga? Add a small Buddha statue. The goal is to tell your story in a subtle, elevated way.
Tip 10: Stick to Odd Numbers—3 or 5 Objects
This is a classic design rule that works every time. Grouping items in odd numbers feels more natural and pleasing to the eye.
Try this formula:
- 1 tray + 1 book stack + 1 sculptural object = 3
- 1 plant + 1 vase + 1 bowl + 1 candle + 1 book = 5
- 1 set of candles + 1 bookstack + 1 plant
Pro Tip: Once you know the rules, you can break the rules. Use them as a starting point to create a visually balanced arrangement.
If you have a larger coffee table or even two tables side by side, you can apply the rule of odds to each one. It instantly gives your room that layered, designer look.
Final Thoughts: Bring It All Together
There you have it—10 coffee table styling tips that make your home look designer-level expensive on a budget. Whether you’re starting fresh or restyling with what you already own, these ideas are simple, flexible, and totally achievable.
Remember: the best coffee table decor ideas are the ones that reflect you. Your style, your story, and your everyday life.
Play with different combinations, step back and see how it feels, and don’t overthink it. With the right pieces and a little creativity, your coffee table can go from overlooked to unforgettable.
Tag me on Instagram if you try any of these tips—I’d love to see your space! And if you want to dive deeper into design principles, check out my course Designer Home 101 for more step-by-step help.
Until next time, happy designing!
This post is all about coffee table decor ideas that look expensive.
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Last Updated on June 9, 2025 by Nicole DelaCruz
