How to style your coffee & side table without clutter

04 Feb 2026

A coffee or side table can be beautiful on its own, but let’s be honest, an empty one feels a little lost. They are the perfect place to add warmth, texture and personality to your living room. The trick is doing it in a way that still feels practical and calm. Here is how I approach it!

Start with space

Before adding anything, decide where nothing goes. Leaving about one third of your coffee or side table empty gives breathing room. It keeps the table usable and lets the styled pieces shine instead of compete.

Work in small islands

Rather than spreading things out evenly, group them. Three or four small zones work perfectly. Think books, a vase, a bowl, a sculptural object, something natural. These little islands create structure without feeling stiff.

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Play with height

Flat styling feels dull. I always mix at least three different heights. A low tray, a medium stack of books, a taller vase or candleholder. Your eye keeps moving and the table feels alive.

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Mix materials and textures

This is where the magic happens. Glass next to ceramic, wood with metal, a soft book cover next to a rough bowl. That contrast adds depth and makes the styling feel layered and rich.

Add colour and contrast

A coffee or side table is the perfect place to play with colour. A dark object on a light table. A pop of colour among neutrals. It gives energy without overwhelming the room.

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Bring in something natural

Flowers, greenery, a branch. Nature instantly softens the look and makes the table feel less static and more lived in.

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Styling per table shape

Round

I like four small islands that form an imaginary square. Two book stacks, one character object, one vase. Soft shapes and varied heights keep it playful.