Coffee Table Styling: The Rule of Three
Let’s talk about the heart of the room—the coffee table. Yep, the centerpiece, the vibe setter, the place where style meets function and personality shows out. Your coffee table is where you get to flex. The bigger, the better. The more crowded, the cuter. Have fun with it—just don’t be boring.
Here’s the thing: when styling a coffee table, make sure you're working with at least three of the four corners (for square or rectangular tables) or two of the three zones if your table is round or has an irregular shape. I know it sounds like a lot of rules, but this is one of those times when imbalance actually equals balance. Trust the process.
There are three must-haves for a perfectly styled coffee table:
1. Books. Always Books.
Stack at least three. Not two. Not one. Three. Think of them as your base layer—the foundation. Coffee table books are an instant way to add height, dimension and color. They’re also a great way to show off your personal interest, because there's so many to choose from.
2. Something Interesting and Functional.
Think a cute mini board game like tic-tac-toe, a unique candle, or a chic jar filled with candy. It should look good and be something you (or your guests) can actually use. Think Chic & Useful.
3. The Conversation Piece.
This is the showstopper. The thing that gets people talking. It could be a sculptural object, a dramatic candle holder, or an over-sized art piece. Bonus points if your conversation piece is a statement floral arrangement—it’s a two-for-one.
Now that you know the Rule of Three, you’ve got everything you need to make your coffee table the star of the room. Ready to elevate your space? Shop Table Accents on my site and find the perfect pieces to complete your table.