Five Coffee Table Styling Tips for a Polished Look
.png)
A coffee table is the heart of your living space, whether your home leans towards contemporary rustic or timelessly classic, the right styling can transform this surface from simple to striking. At Home Origins, our range of Coffee Tables offers beautifully balanced proportions, high-quality finishes and thoughtful design details that make styling effortless and enjoyable.
1. Start with Structure
Begin by thinking about shape and balance. Take, for example, the Castello Rustic Oak & Peppercorn Rectangular Coffee Table, which features a saw-cut rustic oak top with a wire-brushed finish. Because it is rectangular, you might use styling in thirds; place a tall vase at one end, a stack of books in the middle and a small accent piece or bowl at the other to keep the look dynamic.
For a round or square version, such as the Astra Grey Oiled Oak & Peppercorn Round Coffee Table, you might use symmetry; a centred tray with matching accessories on either side keeps things balanced.
2. Layer Texture and Tone
Our coffee tables feature refined finishes such as rustic oak and peppercorn, grey-oiled oak, and other carefully considered materials. When styling, echo these tones in your accessories to create a cohesive and balanced look that feels connected to the furniture beneath.
The Johansen Scandi Oak Coffee Table With Shelf combines a smooth natural oak finish with mid-century inspired form, lending itself beautifully to light and layered styling. Soft neutrals and natural textures such as woven baskets or ceramic vases work well to complement its warmth, while the open shelf provides a thoughtful space for favourite books or decorative accents without cluttering the surface.
For a bolder statement, the Lloyd Peppercorn Ash Coffee Table brings rich contrast through its saw-cut ash marquetry top in a deep peppercorn stain and a burnished satin brass base. This design also comes as a Nest of Tables, offering the same craftsmanship and contemporary style with added versatility. The nesting option provides flexible use, saving space when needed or expanding easily for guests, all while maintaining a refined, cohesive look that adds quiet sophistication to modern living spaces.
When layering your tabletop, mix different heights and materials such as a tall candlestick, a glass vase, and a low woven tray to create depth and visual interest. Even the simplest arrangement can feel intentional and beautifully complete when balanced thoughtfully.
3. Add a Touch of Personality
Your coffee table should feel curated, not crowded. A simple way to make it yours is to include personal touches such as a small plant, a sculptural ornament, or a candle that complements your room’s palette.
For a table with an open shelf or drawer, you can display select books or add a decorative storage box for everyday essentials. The Johansen Scandi Oak Coffee Table With Drawer is a good example; it offers hidden storage, which helps you keep the surface clear and styled.
4. Keep Function in Mind
A well-styled coffee table should not only look refined but also work effortlessly within your everyday routine. The best designs combine practicality with presence, supporting the way you live while enhancing the space around them.
If you prefer a tidier look, choose a coffee table with built-in storage or lower shelving to keep essentials neatly tucked away. The Norman Scandi Oak & Soft Grey Coffee Table strikes a perfect balance between practicality and design. Its soft grey painted base and warm oak veneer top bring a sense of calm to the room, while the two soft-close drawers provide discreet storage for remotes, books, or everyday items. With its clean lines and tapered legs, it captures the essence of Scandinavian simplicity while keeping your living space effortlessly organised.
In larger rooms, scale becomes part of the styling. A piece like the Rosen Weathered Oak & Peppercorn Coffee Table offers generous surface area and strong, architectural presence. Its combination of natural wood and darker undertones creates a feeling of balance and substance.
Think about how your table supports your lifestyle. Families may prefer designs with rounded edges or durable finishes, while those who love to entertain might choose a broader surface for serving drinks or displaying candles. Pairing a larger central table with a matching Side Table can add flexibility, creating layered functionality that adapts to different moments. A decorative tray helps organise smaller items, while a stack of books or a sculptural piece brings focus without crowding the surface, ensuring every element enhances both the beauty and practicality of the room.
5. Finish with Flow
Finally, step back and view your space as a whole. Your coffee table should feel connected to your sofa, rug and surrounding décor. The finishes across our collection, from timeless oak and peppercorn tones to grey-oiled oak are designed to blend effortlessly with any living-room scheme, bringing cohesion and polish to your home.
For instance, match accent cushions or throws to the undertones of your table or mirror the metal finishes (such as the satin brass base of the Lloyd table) in picture frames or lamps.
- 30th October 2025