You’d be surprised how truly gargantuan most coffee tables are – unless, of course, you’ve ever tried to furnish a small living room. Online, scale is hard to grasp, but pull out a measuring tape and suddenly that ‘compact’ option feels anything but.

Living in an NYC studio myself, I know this viscerally. In six years of trial and error in what is, essentially, a glorified dorm room, I’ve landed on one key rule: the best small coffee tables for small living rooms fall between 36 inches long (my current setup) and, at most, around 40 inches – if you’re lucky enough to have a bit more breathing room.

From there, extra living room storage is essential. In a small living room, clutter is less easily forgiven, so the best small coffee tables pull double duty with hidden compartments – an art and science still rarer than it should be, but increasingly well-executed by CB2 in luxe fluted oak finishes, and even by entry-level, all-style retailers like Wayfair.

It’s a tall order, but considering the coffee table is the hub of the living room, it’s worth getting right. You might have fallen for that 60-inch burl-wood behemoth, but with any luck, you’ll love these 16 small coffee tables more.

The Cut is all about Homes & Gardens helping you invest in pieces that feel current now, but won’t date as trends shift. Finds that elevate a room today and still feel right years from now. Whether it’s a sculptural accent chair or a chic pendant light, our editors will curate an edit that balances style, longevity, and quality. Consider this your shortcut to smart, beautiful shopping.

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Aside from a really great couch, a coffee table is the centerpiece of your living room. Not only is it the spot where you rest your glass of wine or put up your feet (guilty as charged) but the perfect spot for creating a personality-packed vignette.

A well-styled coffee table is like the cherry on top of a beautifully decorated space. So, we set on asking the experts just how to make a coffee table look more expensive with their very best coffee table decor ideas.

Whether you’re working with a budget-friendly setup or a high-end piece of furniture, styling your coffee table like a professional is certainly within reach with these tips from interior designers.

How to make your coffee table look more expensive

Of course, the starting point is a really beautiful coffee table to begin with. But this doesn't mean you need to have the most statement or expensive piece of furniture.

Sometimes just a simple, well-made wooden coffee table can make as much of a statement as the boldest marble with a few coffee table styling tricks from the experts. Here are 5 failproof ways to make your coffee table look more expensive.

1. Always include a beautiful tray

A well-styled coffee table often features a beautiful tray. Not only does this serve as a centerpiece to the table, but is essential for zoning and corraling looser items and oddities.

'It's oh-so-easy to make your coffee table look more luxurious and high-end just by investing some time in styling the surface artfully,' advises interior designer Kathy Kuo. 'Try adding a chic tray made of material like shagreen or travertine and add luxe decorative accents within the tray, like bud vases, stylish coffee table books, upscale scented candles, and decorative sculptures,' Kathy suggests.

A tray is your styling best friend because it instantly adds structure to your coffee table decor. Round trays are excellent for softening the edges of a rectangular table, while rectangular trays often work best on round tables, creating contrast. To elevate the aesthetic, opt for a tray with luxurious finishes like marble or lacquer.

2. Edit down your coffee table books

Coffee table books are a great way to showcase your personality and interests while adding height and structure to your styling – but it needs to be a curated edit.

'To make your coffee table feel more elevated, focus on creating layers of interest and balance,' suggests designer Marie Flanigan. 'Start with a curated stack of beautiful books that reflect your style, and finish the look with thoughtful details like a tray to organize smaller items, a candle for warmth, or an interesting object collected from your travels.'

When curating your stack, consider both content and aesthetics. Choose books that resonate with your passions, but the covers should complement your room’s palette or offer an intentional pop of color.

'The best way to make an inexpensive coffee table look expensive is to use some large decorative books stacked strategically in the corner,' adds Karin Krinsky of New Age Interiors. 'Then, place a pretty bowl or tray and perhaps some beads ever so gently spilling out of them.'

3. Be sure to include natural forms

Nature inherently softens a space and makes it look less 'styled' and more, well, natural. Whether it’s a vase of fresh flowers, a sculptural piece of driftwood, or a cluster of natural stones, these organic elements make the vignette feel more inviting.

'Add a sculptural element like a ceramic vessel or a piece of hand-carved wood for texture,' continues Marie. 'Incorporate something organic, such as fresh flowers or a small potted plant, to bring life and softness to the arrangement.'

'The key is to mix materials and shapes while keeping the arrangement clean and intentional,' adds Marie. Even a single branch in an elegant vase can make a statement.

4. Create height and be mindful of scale

Achieving a polished look with your coffee table decor often hinges on striking the right balance of height and scale.

'A coffee table is an important bit of real estate at the center of your living space that offers a valuable opportunity to enhance the ambiance of the room,' says Amy Carman of Amy Carman Design. 'A carefully composed collection of books, accessories, and greenery add a layer of beauty for your eye to land on. At our Treasure Island project, seen above, we kept our accessories monochromatic, with the exception of a delicate gilded olive leaf sculpture.'

'Be mindful of the scale of your selections. An oversized coffee table requires only a few objects, but they need to be appropriately sized,' she suggests.

Balance taller items like vases or candlesticks with slightly smaller pieces, such as a stack of books, a tray, or a low-profile bowl. Be sure to vary the heights subtly for a layered effect rather than having all elements clustered at the same level.

5. Finally, add some personal touches

Achieving an expensive-looking coffee table is as much about showcasing your personality as it is about achieving a polished look.

'Adding layers through trinkets, collectibles, books, and candles adds extra dimensions that can’t fail to elevate your coffee table,' advises Holly Vaughan of Vaughan Design & Development.

Adding a few personal elements, like a cherished heirloom, a favorite travel souvenir, or a framed photo, ensures your coffee table looks much less like a store display and more like something out of a real, lived-in home.

Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to styling any surface in your home. Your coffee table should be a reflection of your taste and personality. Whether you lean minimalist or maximalist, the key is finding a balance that feels authentic to you.

A self-care routine that makes your house smell better, and invites beauty sounds too good to be true. Kendall Jenner, however, makes this fantasy a reality in her California home.

The model shared her home fragrance routine in this year's Poosh Gift guide, lauding the merits of the Walden Mesa Palo Santo set. She states: 'Meditation is such an important part of my self-care routine, and palo santo really helps set a calming mood. I love how beautiful and functional this set is, and I can’t wait to gift it to friends and family to elevate their rituals.'

Long beyond the holidays, you'll want to use the wood burner as a coffee table styling idea. It's made up of a black square base, with a smaller platform above, designed to hold the palo santo while it's burning. Its shape is sculptural and unique and could easily be used to offset the blockiness of coffee table books. The device aids wellness, smells amazing, and elevates design all in one.

We’ve been reporting on wellness as an interior design trend for about a year. From stylish saunas, to design-led cold plunges and even free weights that double as sculptures, we’ve spotted mental-health improvers as decor across some of the world’s most beautiful homes. Wellness accoutrements are no longer something to hide, but something to make beautiful.

Megan Slack, head of celebrity style explains: ‘As wellness culture has moved into the mainstream as a larger and larger phenomenon, it just makes sense that it’s extended to interior design as well. Options like Kendall’s palo santo holder make it easy to tap into this look without installing an entire structure on the home.’

Jenner’s take on the trend is especially appealing because it also taps into the principles of home fragrance. Slack continues, ‘The way that palo santo infuses your entire home with a warm, smoky scent is the perfect way to create a “signature scent” alongside your meditation routine. You can burn the wood alongside other scents for a unique sensory experience. I would love to see this in someone’s living room, or it would be great in a bedroom.’

For a similar sensory experience, we've turned to incense for decades. Here are some of our current favorites, perfect for meditation or just a quiet evening this January.

If you're a design aficionado who is also interested in taking your wellness more seriously this year, Kendall's recommendation is a great place to start. You don't have to be into meditation to appreciate the benefits of fragrance and design.

Board games have long been an established tradition and can be found in some form in almost all households across the globe. Usually making their debut during the holidays or periods of celebration, games can be the centerpiece in an evening of entertainment.

But their purpose isn't aesthetics or, at least it wasn't until now. Board games have recently had a luxurious glow up, and we are seeing some of the most stylish people we know use them as decoration in their homes to add interest to a coffee table or sideboard.

This revival of the humble game set is very much in keeping with the growing 'collected home' interior design trend, centering around adding character and personality to a home with unique and often unexpected pieces.

And the growing popularity of game sets has not gone unnoticed by designers or luxury home brands. Here the experts tell us why luxury games are the new way to elevate your surfaces.

1. They're both functional and decorative

L'Objet is a luxury retail store that sells bespoke decor pieces for the home. Elad Yifrach, the company's founder and creative director shares his views on the classic tradition and why he introduced games into the L'Objet line.

'I’ve always loved having a game board as part of my living room coffee table. It invites play and interaction. For L’OBJET, I’ve reimagined the classic game boards with unexpected use of materials and design elements that express beautiful craftsmanship, making them functional and decorative objects.'

Traditional board games aren't typically particularly aesthetic pieces. They are bold in color and cheap in materials but designers like Elad are elevating the humble board game to become statement design pieces that you want to keep on show.

2. They encourage connection and quality time

No game is complete without another player. Games are traditionally brought out during times of shared festivity and they encourage you to team together and have fun.

Bryony Sheridan, buying director of the luxury homeware site, ABASK recognizes the importance of game sets in creating an inviting home. 'When it comes to games, more and more people are stepping away from their screens and embracing ‘the real thing’ as a sort of rebellion against the digital age. Many value the ritual and tangible experience – not just for the social connection, but also the joy of learning something new and creating traditions.'

'Since our launch, games sets have been a key part of the ABASK curation,' she continues. 'Not only do the designs we stock look exquisite, but they are also functional. They bring people together, celebrate exceptional craftsmanship, and serve as heirlooms to be cherished and passed through the generations.'

Introducing games set as a permanent decor feature encourages communal activities and integrates game-playing into the everyday. A central coffee table is the perfect spot for a luxury game as it will look lovely when not in use but also encourages guests to play.

3. They can elevate your aesthetic

Games sets make great statement pieces, elevating the living room (or whichever room you choose to put them in) with a hint of luxury and refinement. Like a chic coffee table book or beautiful vase, game sets can accessorize a surface and elevate an area.

ABASK's range is filled with timeless classics and more abstract choices. 'Whether it's boules or bridge, every design is always of the highest quality.' Bryony says, 'Ensuring the exterior matches the beauty of the interior is essential, especially in communal areas where they’ll be viewed from every angle. With this in mind, we seek out games crafted from rare materials.'

4. They bring a dose of fun to any room

While these new luxurious board games are far from the colorful cardboard originals, the idea is of course to still have fun – and that goes for the design too.

Bryony suggests styling your game set with an on-theme accessory for an opulent and fun display. 'I love highlighting the game as a statement piece, styling it with accessories that match the mood, such as our playing cards cocktail napkins. Leaving the board open is a great way to spark conversations, especially when it features original artwork or marquetry by the likes of Alexandra Llewellyn, or William & Son—the playfully illustrated snakes and ladders compendiums are a personal favorite.'

Colorful living rooms are vibrant and joyous, so to match this aesthetic, try incorporating a bold board design to create a fun, game area in your living space. Or create a cohesive and thought-out scheme by choosing a paired-back wooden board that doesn't detract from your neutral decor.

We love the concept of board games doubling as decor. A board game that stays on display does so much more than just add a stylish focal point to a coffee table or sideboard, it also creates an inviting, space for family or your guests to naturally gather and spend quality time together.

More than just the surface on which you place your mug (or feet), the coffee table is the unofficial centerpiece of your living room and it should be treated accordingly.

So considering it is such a focal point, you're going to want to get the coffee table styling right. And that's where I come in. A few well-chosen home decor accessories and a few expert-led styling tips could just be the key to injecting the personality and a sense of style your living space has been missing.

To help, I’ve rounded up 12 pieces I swear by to make my coffee table look far more expensive than it actually is – and with the Cyber Monday sales in full swing, these pieces are currently more affordable than ever.

12 coffee table accessories to shop in the sales

When it comes to coffee table decor, these are my best styling tips: First, you'll want to offer height by selecting a coffee table book or two, create zones and organization among the chaos with trays or boxes, and finally, add some pieces that make you smile: candles, pretty matchboxes, and even playing cards.

Personally, I love the intentional clutter trend which encourages you to create pockets of curated knick-knacks, personal items, and random slightly disorganized objects to make a space feel lived-in and more like home.

The coffee table is a great place to put this into practice. After all, one of the biggest coffee table mistakes is leaving it bare and empty.

So with the Cyber Monday sales offering incredible discounts, now is the perfect time to perfect your coffee table. Here are my best finds.

Whether your vibe is modern or eclectic, these 12 picks will help you create a stunning coffee table setup that’s ready to impress ahead of the holidays.

When boucle started trending in the mid-20s, I was obsessed with the look. I loved its wooly texture, its loopy appearance, and the curved furniture it upholstered. Almost ten years later, I've seen thousands of boucle chairs, sofas, and ottomans, and I'll admit, I started to grow a bit bored. That is until I saw Jane Fonda's take on the style.

The actress debuted her boucle living room sofa in a recent Instagram post, singing the praises of another controversial design trend, Sneex. She is sprawled across a rectangular, cream-colored boucle sofa with a gray decorative pillow behind her. A rounded wooden coffee table and circular wooden side table introduce a contrasting shape and rustic material. Behind the sofa, her blue-gray walls echo the green-gray accents in her geometric rug.

After analyzing the picture, I discovered the primary way Fonda refreshes the living room furniture trend is by pairing it with natural wood. Kanika Khurana, principal designer at San-Francisco-Bay-based Kanika Design, explains: 'For me, the magic of a boucle sofa paired with natural wood lies in the balance of textures. Boucle, with its soft, looped fabric, introduces a tactile warmth that feels luxurious yet approachable.'

We've also revisited Jane Fonda's living room a year later, and while her bouclé couch is still timeless, it's the blue walls that we are loving in 2025.

This pairing goes a long way in making the trendy material appear timeless. She continues, 'When combined with natural wood, which brings in an earthy, organic element, the result is a space that feels both cozy and sophisticated. This combination resonates with various design styles such as mid-century modern decor, Scandinavian, or even bohemian—making it a versatile choice that can evolve with changing trends without losing its charm.'

Fonda's deep blue walls also stand out to me. This living room color contrasts the cream of the sofa, making it look more modern and interesting. To recreate the look, Khurana recommends: ' To elevate a cream boucle sofa, I love the idea of bold, colorful walls. A deep burgundy or a rich mustard yellow can create a stunning backdrop that makes the sofa pop. These colors not only add vibrancy but also set an inviting tone for the space.'

She adds: 'If you're hesitant about going too bold, consider using a jewel tone. Think sapphire or emerald that can bring a sense of sophistication while allowing the boucle’s texture to shine. Adding art pieces or decorative mirrors can further enhance the visual interest and reflect the colors beautifully.' These pairings elevate the fabric trend for a fresh, original feel.

Shop the Look

If you're wondering 'what's replacing boucle?' the answer is boucle with more accessories. To create your own fresh spin on the look, Khurana advises: 'When it comes to styling your boucle sofa, start by considering the layers. I recommend incorporating a mix of pillows in various shapes and fabrics, such as silk, wool, or even a bit of leather for contrast. This layering not only adds depth but also invites comfort.'

The other furniture is just as important to remaking the style timeless. 'Next, think about your coffee table,' says Khurana. 'Choose one with clean lines and perhaps a natural wood finish to echo the sofa’s elegance. You can add a soft, textured table runner or a stack of art books to introduce personality. For additional charm, consider using an oversized throw blanket draped casually over the arm of the sofa. This adds both comfort and style, making the space feel lived-in.

She concludes: 'Lastly, don’t forget about lighting. A sculptural floor lamp or a pair of modern table lamps can highlight the sofa while providing ambient light that enhances the overall atmosphere.'

With the proper styling, boucle will always be a calming, timeless look.

Few trends are quite as accessible as tray-caping, so it's no surprise that we've seen it everywhere, from small curated apartments to the most impressive celebrity homes. The latter is the case of Will Smith, who demonstrates his take on the trend via a circular black tray filled with candles, glass vases, and a plant. However, while his chosen objects tap into trayscaping traditions, the placement is much less conventional.

Trayscaping, simply the art of styling a tray with decorative (and personal) objects, is most commonly seen atop coffee tables, side tables, and consoles – typically in living rooms, entryways, or even home offices. In Smith's case, however, he has used this decorative technique in the most practical space of all: the kitchen island.

Trayscaping is often seen as an extension of the equally popular 'tablesaping' design trend – so with this in mind, the kitchen may not seem like a totally surprising place to experiment with the look. However, as mentioned, the island is a place for food preparation and consumption, so it can be a hard area to decorate. This is where we can learn from Smith's decorating technique.

Trayscaping is a way to anchor all of your home accessories together in an organized (yet beautifully stylish) way – making it the unexpected yet pefect solution for a (sometimes) chaotic island. Like all of us, Smith wants his island to be both aesthetic and personal as well as functional, and trayscaping offers a way to keep these decorative pieces together without making his island feel annoyingly busy or cluttered.

The actor's addition of glass vases, and of course, the statement indoor plant, is a trayscaping must, according to design expert and stylist Felicity Burton. British retailer John Lewis recently saw a 52% rise in trays (in comparison to the same time last year), suggesting the trend is showing no signs of slowing down. But who is surprised with Will Smith emerging as an (unintentional) supporter?

'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, footstool [or more recently, a kitchen island],' she says.

We can tap into the trayscaping trend with some of our favorite options, handpicked below. We promise they'll impress on every island (and beyond).

So, how should we look to style our tray? The best part of the trend is that there are no strict rules, so we should use it as an opportunity to get personal and showcase our most unique antiques, candles, and accessories. However, there are some tricks to make our tray look as aesthetic as possible.

'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,' Burton says. As mentioned, though, it's almost impossible to go wrong, so happy styling.

Dark wood is a classic feature of both American and British homes. It provides a feeling of history, luxury, and tradition. The classic look gets a new lease on life in Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne's home. They have paired it with textural furnishings for a cozy and inviting feel.

In the Osbournes' living room idea, dark wood defines the room's perimeter, stretching across all four walls. A recent Instagram post reveals the inviting space, with the family cuddling on the gray velvet couch. Leather armchairs and dark wood floors add to the space's traditional feel. A punky light fixture and red and white striped coffee table bring a bit of an edge. The built-in shelves in the wood walls are filled with books and decorative objects, adding to the lived-in, familiar ambiance of the space.

Jennifer Ebert, design expert and digital editor at Homes & Gardens states: 'The Osbourne's home is a perfect example of how to introduce natural materials into your home in a timeless way. Though biophilic design has been trending for some time now, I think people worry that lighter tones or unfinished wood of a modern farmhouse look might be more of a fad, but there are hundreds of ways to integrate wood.'

The color drenching of dark wood on both the walls and floors is an especially striking feature of this room. As darker brown and chocolate tones become more popular, this look is a great way to emulate the interior design trend in a manner that will last. 'When it comes to hardwood flooring, many people play it safe and choose traditional ‘light oak’ shades, but I say go bold with your flooring choice! From walnut to tobacco, darker shades of wood can really add warmth and unique character to a room in the same way that darker paint shades do,' says Carly Greening, Creative Product Manager at The Floor Room.

The texture of wide, herringbone flooring idea brings further visual interest to the Osbournes' space. Greening adds: 'To make a real style statement with your flooring, choose a darker colored wood in a patterned design, such as traditional parquet or intricate herringbone, to add beautiful texture and timeless charm to any space.'

The beauty of the style comes through in the contrast of materials throughout the room. Ebert states: 'I love the mix of velvet on the sofa with leather on the chairs and the intricate carvings on the walls in this living room. Using texture in interior design helps to draw the eye around the space, creating an alluring and stylish feel that doesn't fit neatly into just one style.'

Shop the Warm Wood Edit

If you hope to recreate the Osbournes' look, start small with a few dark wood pieces. A simple dark wood chair, side table, or shelving unit goes a long way in bringing a similar inviting ambiance into your home, without the huge commitment. Where there is dark wood, there is cozy, warming energy.

Utilizing flowers as home decor is one of our favorite ways to brighten up a space. For inspiration, we're taking cues from set decorator and filmmaker extraordinaire Nancy Meyers.

The Something's Gotta Give and The Holiday director, who is known for her films' stunning interiors, recently shared a snap of her coffee table styling, which features a magnificent bouquet of fresh, white lilies housed in a glass vase. Surrounded by coffee table books, the delicate flowers look effortlessly chic. 'Farmers Market lilies still so pretty 6 days later,' Meyers captioned the post.

Want to know how to keep flowers fresh in a vase for as long as possible? We spoke to an expert to get his top flower care tips. 'Lilies make for some of the best cut flowers to grow in the garden border,' says master gardener and content editor at Homes & Gardens, Thom Rutter. 'Dramatic, colorful and fragrant, lilies have it all.' For those with green thumbs, lilies, with their wide array of options (there are over 2,000 varieties of this bloom) are an excellent addition to any garden.

Though these flowers are evocative of spring, Rutter explains that lily bulbs are planted well in advance of the season. As such, there are some care considerations to make so they survive weather changes. 'Lily bulbs tend to be planted in the fall months going on to bloom the following summer,' he says. 'Just be sure to incorporate plenty of drainage when planting your bulbs, as they will not thank you for sitting in wet, waterlogged soil.'

To get flowers like Meyers' on the table, Rutter suggests simple snipping the stems and placing them in a spacious vase. 'When lilies bloom in the garden borders during July, August and September, you can cut and use them indoors,' Rutter states. 'As Nancy Meyers shows, pure white lilies can be incredibly impactful whether they stay in the yard or you bring them indoors for a floral display. White lily bulbs are available to buy online from Walmart.'

To keep the flowers looking fresh and healthy, Rutter says that special attention should be paid to the vase; it is actually just as important as the flowers themselves. 'A word of caution, however, lily stems and flowers can be large, so be sure to choose the right vase for your cut flowers,' he suggests. 'In addition, change the water every few days to ensure that your lilies last for as long as possible.'

Shop H&G's Lily Essentials

Below, we have rounded up some essential products to achieve a Nancy Meyers-worthy, home floral arrangement. From lily bulb, to the right fertilizer, to the proper vase, growing beautiful bulbs recreating the look has never been easier.

If you love the look of fresh flowers as decor but you just can't master growing lily bulbs, there are many options of beautiful fabric flowers that allow you to decorate with flowers without the commitment. No matter your preference, a look like Nancy Meyers's is well within reach.

It is a joy to be in Paris at the best of times, but to go when the City of Light is playing host to one of the most iconic sporting events in history is indescribable. I have been to Paris many times through the years and though I visited for just four nights before heading to the coast, I had my fill of its insatiable charm and allure.

Between the games, there was lots of strolling through my favorite arrondissements (between 3rd, 4th, and 6th in case you are wondering), enjoying delicious pastries, and whiling away the hours in the most coveted of boltholes. Cool and inviting, the styling of these spaces paves the way for the most memorable moments. Naturally, I was happy and inspired to take home some of those interior design trends...

1. Bibliothèque charm

Getting lost for an hour or two in a Parisian library is a favorite pastime in the city. Playing homage to this I headed to Cravan bar, which is in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the literary heart of Paris. It is set in an imposing 17th-century building that has been redefined by Belgian designer Ramy Fischler. Three bars are set over four levels, with a Scandi-esque elevator to accompany you if you wish, and each space has its own distinct look. The area that I was immediately drawn to in this historic building, was The Rizzoli Library on the second floor.

There is an art to decorating with books and Ramy does it very well, bringing even more zest to modern charm to create a space that you will happily spend hours in. Here, cozy, cool luxury is redefined. Red velvet couches hug the walls and Parquet de Versailles wooden floors carry inherently beautiful bookshelves – both built-in and free-standing – this was a look I wanted to take home immediately. I'm sure you can see why...

A neutral color scheme and clean lines create openness without taking away from the intimacy of the space, while angular furniture, coffee tables, and high ceilings add just the right amount of definition and kindly juxtapose the architectural bones. The balance is impeccable. The Bookshelf wealth trend is personal look of course but I will definitely be creating my own reading nook with these design cues.

2. A hint of unexpected marble

From marble-topped round bistro tables to hints of the enduring material spotted on ornaments when window shopping, Paris took my love of marble to new heights.

This look is not new, by no means, but I now have a refreshed outlook on marble – no longer considering it only for kitchens and bathrooms. Now, when injecting a little of the Paris Grandma Aesthetic into my home, I will consider hints of marble in accessories, statement lamps and small side tables.

3. Red and white

the Color trends have been pretty peachy this summer, but red and white is the color combination that reigned for me in August. And it kept catching my eye around the city.

It forms part of Paris' natural brasserie-studded landscape, but I enjoyed it in particular on the outdoor woven bistro chairs at a new cocktail location called Bar Bisou Paris. It sounds like a bold combo, but as I saw in Bar Bisou, tone down the red and warm up the white and you get a scheme that's high-contrast but livable.

For an effortless, cool finish, I'd consider a rustier-toned red with white too. This is one of the interior looks at the iconic hotel, Les Bains Paris. Dismantling bold red and white in a lounging corner keeps this hotel room striking but still cozy and inviting. The sculpted finish of the furniture lifts the color scheme too, leading me to my next Parisian design trend...

4. Exaggerated sculptural decor

Silver hot air balloons adorned the 'vitrines' (windows) of Louis Vuitton and voluminous light shades dressed the fifth wall of my favorite restaurants. Colors were light, with reflective finishes, and eye-catching to say the least. From curvaceous couches to ceramics, finding subtle ways to add drama will lift all of the more traditional allure of Parisian interiors.

Plus, if your space has angular furniture or architectural features like a marble hearth, fluid shapes can soften the tone. For the daring, include those gold glimmers and nuances of silver, a pop here and there can bring a room to life.

Naturally, I love a hint of French provincial style, but nodding to more modern looks will uniquely elevate this aesthetic. And that's what I learned from my trip to Paris, I fell back in love with the more modern, bold side of French interiors which can often be forgotten in favor of the French country style we all love.

When hosting friends and family in your home, there are a few non-negotiables – comfortable seating and somewhere to set food and drinks rank near the top of the list. But if you're really looking to upgrade your gathering game, a stylish home bar is a must-have investment. Whether you create a small nook within your kitchen or opt for a bespoke built-in, a home bar is the ultimate hosting hub.

In Studio McGee's latest project reveal, a Park City mountainside retreat, a bold, impactful home bar takes center stage in the living room. While the space itself is a gorgeous meld of eclectic style and classic Shea McGee charm, the color-blocking-inspired home bar is a stunning source of design inspiration.

Luckily, Shea recently took to YouTube to share an in-depth look into the space, revealing the design decisions that went into the final reveal. Here's what Shea had to say about the living room and eye-catching home bar.

Inside the Summit Estate living room

Shea shares that her clients had a vision for this Park City vacation home – though they love Studio McGee's style, it had to be unlike anything the firm had designed before. And in the final reveal, their characterful, eclectic style blends beautifully with Shea's signature modern rustic look. The living room is perhaps the best example of this transitional (yet slightly whimsical) blend done right, aided by show-stopping outdoor views beyond every floor-to-ceiling window.

'In the living room, the first thing you see is the view,' Shea says in the video. 'It's just gorgeous everywhere you turn. So it was important when we were developing a seating arrangement to allow the seating to not only cozy up by this double-sided fireplace, but also so everyone could appreciate the views and then hang out together.'

A floating, double-sided fireplace clad in natural stone brings warmth and nature-inspired charm, contrasting with the home's modern, black-framed windows. And the seating area, grounded by a vintage area rug (as seen in the home's entryway), allows the whole family to gather in one central location.

With loads of seating options, from a comfort-forward couch to two matching ottomans, it's a welcoming, homey living room that still feels elegant and chic. Much of the living room design process, says Shea, was creating walkways around the furniture and to and from the folding glass doors leading outside.

'We worked through quite a few different arrangements, and the way it landed, it feels like it was always meant to be this way – but it took us a few iterations on the drawings to get the plans to just feel natural,' says Shea. ' I think that part of the decision-making process was incorporating selections that had curve to them so that everything didn't feel so blocky – especially with all of these huge, rectangular door systems and windows that we have throughout.'

The centerpiece of the room is a wavy, organic-shaped coffee table, styled in true Shea McGee fashion. The combination of its trendy shape and natural wood finish make it a timely yet timeless addition to the space.

Every finish in this space was intentional, meant to connect each of the sprawling home's rooms to a centralized design scheme while also making reference to the great outdoors. In the living room, a wood-stained ceiling and directional overhead lighting does the job.

In the corner of the living room, the home bar (complete with a bistro-style seating arrangement) steals the show. Statement brick backsplash is painted with a glossy coat of Barista by Benjamin Moore, a 'sumptuous dark brown with a touch of violet.' Meanwhile, the surrounding cabinetry and an accent wall are painted in Stonecutter by Benjamin Moore, a cooler, serene blue. The combination makes a striking statement, and provides the perfect hangout space within the larger living room.

'Believe it or not, this is not the only bar in the home,' says Shea. 'This is bar number one, and it opens up to the living room for the ultimate entertaining, hang out space for our clients. We were inspired by a color-blocking effect. And then one of my favorite parts is these English taps and then a copper sink.'

'There was some debate over whether or not to do a bar here, and we felt like, "Wow, that's a lot of counter stools between the living room and then the kitchen right behind us,"' continues Shea. 'So we opted to do a bistro table and swivel chairs, and then just have this be a bar counter.'

Get the look

This mountainside home has a wide array of outstanding design moments, and this moody home bar is one of the best. Nestled inside a warm and welcoming living room (complete with awe-inspiring views), it's the perfect everyday getaway.

Living room design schemes are highly personal, based on aesthetic preferences and unique lifestyles. But no matter the interior design style or layout, some living room features are non-negotiable – a comfortable sofa and a chic coffee table are both quite high on the list.

The coffee table serves as a centerpiece and conversation starter, taking a prominent role in the room's decor. Styled with personalized trinkets and meant to be multi-functional, it can't be overlooked. And this year, a classic style of coffee table is coming back in full force.

Glass coffee tables haven't dominated the trend cycle for quite some time, but interior designers say they're on the rise once again. Light, airy, and perfect for displaying treasured books and decor, they're the trendy (yet timeless) accessory your living room needs this season.

Here, designers share what glass coffee tables add to a design scheme, why they're back in style, and whether investing in one is the right choice for you. Plus, they offer their top styling tips so you can get the 2024 furniture trend down with ease.

What do glass coffee tables add to a design scheme?

'Glass coffee tables have long been a staple in interior design, offering a unique blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal,' says Connie Glazer, founder and principal of Santa Barbara-based Connie Glazer Design. 'These transparent pieces add a touch of elegance and modernity to any living space, creating an illusion of openness and lightness that can make even small rooms feel more spacious.'

The qualities that make glass coffee tables unique also make them a must-have design feature. Reflecting natural light all around the room and providing the perfect canvas for coffee table styling, they're a designer-approved furniture staple. Martin Waller, founder of global design brand Andrew Martin, says they're a 'fantastic addition to any design scheme.'

'The transparency of glass means that it doesn't block visual space, making a room feel larger and airier. This is especially useful in smaller spaces where you want to avoid anything that feels too heavy or cluttered,' says Martin. 'Additionally, glass has a versatile appeal that can complement various styles, from modern to classic. It reflects light, which can brighten up a room and enhance the overall ambiance.'

Pantea Bionki, owner and lead designer of Southern California-based Bionki Interiors, adds that when combined with an eye-catching accent material, glass coffee tables become even more versatile and work with a wide range of interior design styles.

'Glass coffee tables have timeless appeal in interior design. In spacious settings, opting for a glass coffee table with an intriguing base can transform it into a striking focal point,' says Pantea.

'Glass coffee tables are making a stylish return to our homes, bringing elegance and versatility. They can create an open, airy feel, and let other design elements shine. I never thought they went out of style – they’ve always had a place in modern design, but are now being rediscovered for their subtle sophistication,' adds Erik Munro, founder of London-based Munro Design.

When a home is lacking in natural light, glass coffee tables act as a stunning substitute, 'bringing in light and a sense of spaciousness,' says Aman Than, founder and principal of Toronto-based Aman Than Interiors.

'They're not just practical; they add a touch of modern elegance to any home. Whether your style is sleek and contemporary or more traditional, glass coffee tables effortlessly blend in, complementing different colors and furniture choices. They're great for showcasing your favorite rugs or decorative items underneath, adding layers to your decor. Plus, they're easy to clean, making them ideal for busy households where practicality meets style seamlessly,' says Aman.

Why are glass coffee tables back in style?

'Glass coffee tables' popularity ebbs and flows, but they never truly go out of style due to their timeless function and versatile design,' says Jodi Peterman, CEO and owner of Elizabeth Erin Designs. 'The bases, often made from wood or metal with a variety of finishes, lend themselves to sleek modern design aesthetics.'

Recently, Jodi days, these tables have grown in popularity alongside minimalist and open-concept design schemes, as well as nature-inspired decor. Connie agrees, saying that recent manufacturing advancements have only helped glass coffee tables reestablish their place in interior design trends this year.

'This resurgence can be attributed to the growing popularity of minimalist and contemporary design aesthetics, where clean lines and unobtrusive furniture pieces are highly valued. Additionally, advancements in glass manufacturing technology have led to more durable and versatile options, addressing previous concerns about fragility and practicality,' says Connie.

'The resurgence of glass coffee tables is due to the increase in a minimalist trend that favors clean lines and open spaces. More and more people opt for a furniture piece that serves various purposes. Glass coffee tables provide a sleek surface for entertaining while also allowing the rug to shine,' adds Priyanshi Jain, founder of Pixels and Spaces.

Aman says that glass coffee tables have adapted over time. While they once fit in as 'heavier, more substantial furniture pieces,' they're now blending with more pared-back, serene spaces that lean more minimalist and contemporary.

'Glass coffee tables didn't necessarily fall out of style; they just took a temporary backseat in design trends,' says Aman. 'As more people opt for smaller living spaces, glass tables have become a practical choice, enhancing the perception of openness and light in rooms. They effortlessly integrate into modern decor, providing both functionality and style in compact living environments.'

Should you opt for a glass coffee table in your own home?

Before introducing a glass coffee table to your living room, designers say there are a few considerations to keep in mind – and they go beyond aesthetics. Priyanshi says these tables are 'great for creating an illusion of space' and 'highlighting a stunning rug.' Plus, they're easy to clean, making 'a practical choice for busy households.' But these pieces aren't always the right choice for a traffic-heavy or traditional living room.

'If your home has a strong traditional or rustic aesthetic, a glass coffee table may not be the best fit. Glass is also prone to breakage, so if you have active children or pets, a sturdy material may be a safe option. In places with heavy foot traffic, glass may be more susceptible to scratches and potential breakage,' Priyanshi says.

Jodi adds that glass tables 'seamlessly connect open-concept living areas and provide a sleek platform for showcasing decorative items,' but warns that they require a bit of upkeep – upkeep that may not be practical with small children or pets around often.

'They might not be suitable for homes with young children due to safety concerns and the constant visibility of fingerprints and smudges. In heavy-use areas, glass tables can scratch or chip easily, making them less practical,' she says.

Kristen Ekeland, co-founder of Studio Gild, agrees that glass doesn't always blend well with 'rustic or traditional' design schemes, and adds that they don't provide the extra storage many busy living rooms need. That being said, she says a glass table is a solid choice if you'd like to show off a 'beautiful rug or floor.'

'Glass coffee tables create openness and lightness, making spaces feel larger and brighter. They allow other decor elements to shine without overwhelming the room,' she says.

Pantea adds that these pieces work well in lounge spaces of any size. 'I generally recommend glass coffee tables regardless of space constraints because there are options to suit every layout and aesthetic. When pairing with furniture, for instance, in modern or contemporary designs, a low glass coffee table complements sleek furnishings beautifully,' she says.

How to style a glass coffee table, according to designers

Styling a glass coffee table looks a bit different than styling one made of wood or metal. With more visibility and light, creating balance in your design is even more important, says Erik. He suggests pairing glass coffee tables with 'plush, textured rugs, sleek metal accents, or bold, colorful furniture' for an eye-catching look.

'The key is balance – let the table enhance, not compete with, your other pieces. When styling, think of contrast. Layering is crucial – use beautiful hardcover books, a touch of greenery, or a unique sculpture. Keep it clean and uncluttered to maintain its elegance,' he says.

Connie adds that 'textured seating options' create a 'balanced contrast,' showing a juxtaposition of soft and sharp materials. She suggests upholstered sofas and chairs to 'soften the sleek appearance of the glass.' Patterned area rugs also achieve this goal, grounding the glass table, she says.

'Styling a glass coffee table requires a thoughtful approach due to its see-through nature. Unlike opaque surfaces, items placed on a glass table are visible from all angles, including underneath,' says Connie.

'Consider using decorative trays or books as a base layer to create visual interest and provide a foundation for smaller objects. Opt for a mix of heights and textures in your decor items, such as a tall vase with fresh flowers, a stack of art books, and a small sculptural piece. Remember to keep the arrangement relatively sparse to maintain the table's airy feel,' she continues.

'Styling a glass coffee table can be a fun and creative process that brings a touch of elegance to your living space,' says Jodi. 'To keep it visually interesting, use items of varying heights, like a collection of hand-selected coffee table books, a decorative vase, and a low tray or bowl filled with trending glass beads. Remember, less is more – choose a few key pieces that complement each other to maintain that open, airy feel.'

Jodi suggests incorporating modern light fixtures, house plants, and 'soft textiles, such as throw pillows and blankets in coordinating patterns' to break up the look and bring in some softness.

'Get personal!' she adds. 'This is a great space to showcase and rotate personal items collected through travel or family heirlooms, creating unique conversation pieces. This approach will ensure your glass coffee table looks stylish and feels uniquely yours.'

'Styling a glass coffee table offers a unique opportunity to play with textures and layers without overwhelming the space. Given the clarity and reflectiveness of glass, I would recommend using decorative items that add visual interest without cluttering the view, such as books, decorative trays, and items with metallic finishes,' adds Martin. 'Unlike solid tables, everything underneath and around the table is visible, so keep the area neat and ensure that the objects on top are attractive from every angle.'

Styling a coffee table is no simple task, and glass coffee tables can make the job feel even more intimidating, but these designer tips make it much simpler. By layering textures and materials, and focusing on balance, a trendy glass coffee table will feel right at home in your own space.

A coffee table can make or break a living room design scheme, so getting the styling down is key. Whether you prefer the classic stack of coffee table books or a carefully arranged tray of trinkets, quite a bit of consideration goes into crafting the perfect coffee table look. Even if the contents get swept away or rearranged over the course of the day, an expertly organized centerpiece is the perfect finishing touch for a living room of any style.

While square, round, and rectangular tables are well and good, organic shapes add visual interest and charm to each living space they grace. But they're not always the easiest to style. Accounting for an imperfect shape and making sure your space still looks polished can prove quite tricky. That's where Shea McGee comes in.

Shea, founder of design firm Studio McGee and homeware brand McGee & Co., has styled countless coffee tables over the course of her career – and now she's sharing her top tips for working with non-standard shapes. Whether you've opted for a natural material with unpredictable twists and turns, or are simply experimenting with unique shapes in your living room, these are Shea's coffee table styling suggestions for a chic and stylish look.

How Shea McGee styles organic coffee tables

'When styling a coffee table that has an organic shape like this, I'm really paying attention to the shape. And that is how I'm going to create the groupings on my coffee table to make it feel just really natural,' Shea says in a video uploaded to Studio McGee's Instagram.

Shea adds that she'd use the same approach when styling a round coffee table – it's all about leaning into the piece's preexisting features. Given her affinity for 'library tables' and coffee table books, it's no shock that the first design detail she turns to with an organic-shaped table is books. Here, she says they're her first choice because after they're placed, 'you can see how much space is taken' and how much is left for other accessories.

'I'm putting this set of books here, kind of around the length. Again, you're seeing [that] I'm following the shape of the table. I've got a stack of books, some little magnifiers on top as an interesting object. Then I'm going to add this stack of books here, [and] I'm going to turn them. You can do coffee table books all the same way if you'd like, but I do think it's really nice to change up the direction for some interest,' says Shea.

By opting for two separate stacks of books and placing them at different angles, Shea takes a potentially boring design feature and makes it quite characterful. Two small magnifying glasses placed atop one of the stacks add yet another layer of whimsy. The stacks work with the shape of the table, rather than against it. They don't overcrowd the space, nor do they feel too isolated.

From there, Shea moves on to a pair of candles, which she places on top of one of the stacks of books. 'We've incorporated a candle and this little match holder here – it gives me a little bit more height than what's happening, and also these round shapes help break up the rectangles below,' she says.

By playing with the juxtaposition of shape, size, and height, Shea adds even more interest to the organic-shaped table. Your coffee table should tell a story, and feel like you – not simply act as an impersonal design feature. With this combination of decorative items, Shea lets her style shine through.

'Lastly, I'm going to add a vase of flowers,' Shea adds, placing a small white vase of gorgeous white flowers in between the books. A small floral arrangement is the perfect finishing touch for a fresh, eye-catching coffee table look.

By following the shape of the table, showing off your personality, and incorporating a range of interesting objects, you'll have a seamlessly stylish organic coffee table in no time. Mix and match where you see fit for a living room centerpiece to admire.

Nancy Meyers may be a filmmaker by trade, but her influence on interiors is not to be understated. The acclaimed rom-com director has developed a cult following surrounding the cozy and chic homes she features in her movies. This has translated into many keeping a watchful eye on her own home design via her Instagram page (ok, we are guilty as well).

Her latest Instagram has given us some floral inspiration, with a beautiful arrangement of pink peonies on display (she gets hers specifically from Trader Joe's, FYI). With voluminous petals and a vibrant hue, we are eager to recreate this bouquet in our own homes.

Peonies are popular petals for a reason; as evident in Meyers' photo, they are simply breathtaking yet demure flowers, that look beautiful in practically any room, from the living space to the kitchen. However, experts say that there is a tight window that peonies thrive in.

'Gardeners and homeowners adore large, fragrant peony blooms, and it is easy to see why,' Gardens Content Editor at Homes & Gardens, Thom Rutter states. 'Whether grown in the yard or placed in a vase, these romantic flowers cannot be ignored. Peony season is, however, sadly coming to an end. Peony growers in the US and Europe have revealed to Homes & Gardens that high rainfall this year will mean that the plentiful supply of homegrown peonies will soon be coming to an end. For this reason, peony fans should enjoy these cut flowers now while they are available. '

For the fresh, fully-bloomed appearance, Rutter recommends some easy-to-follow prep and maintenance tips.

'When considering how to keep flowers fresh in a vase, it is always best to change the water every 3 days, refilling your vase with fresh, lukewarm water,' he states. 'This simple step can help to improve the longevity of your peony flowers, extending their vase life by up to a week.'

Placement is also crucial to peonies' survival in the home; particularly for those with big windows, or anyone who lives in a warm and sunny climate.

'I would also suggest keeping cut flower vases away from direct sunlight or warm rooms,' Rutter says. 'Placing your vase in a cool, partially shaded spot, on the kitchen table perhaps, can also help to keep them looking good for longer.'

More often than not, the coffee table defines the entire living room. Centered and stocked with your family's prized possessions, every coffee table has quite the story to tell. That's why getting the coffee table's styling down is an important final touch, a must-have when creating a stylish living room design scheme.

Lucky for those of us giving our coffee tables a much-needed seasonal refresh, interior designer Shea McGee just shared three distinct coffee table styling ideas – and there's something suited to every family on the list. Whether you love a good board game or just can't stop collecting chic decor, there's so much to be done with your coffee table – and the possibilities go far beyond a makeshift footrest.

1. Hit the books

After declaring 'library tables' in for 2024 earlier this year, it comes as no surprise that Shea's first coffee table styling tip involves books – and lots of them. Many interior design books are conveniently coffee-table-sized, making for an easy addition to your living room's central seating area, but any coffee-table books will do.

Shea suggests making three to four stacks of books on the table, depending on its size, and 'letting the color of their binds and their covers be just as much part of the design as the coffee table itself,' she writes on her website. Experiment with color, size, texture, and placement, and each book you add to the table will present you with new design opportunities.

Plus, show off your hobbies, interests, and more through books, out on display for family, friends, and guests to flip through as they please. Shea adds that books provide a perfect foundation for layering other decorative objects atop (such as trays, candles and floral arrangements) as well, as pictured above.

2. Display your curiosity collection

Decorative objects are often scattered throughout the home, making appearances on bookshelves, side tables and, often, anywhere else they'll fit. But Shea's second suggestion puts these accessories on full display, right out on the coffee table for all to see. By layering several pieces together, pairing them based on color schemes, size and shape, you'll be well on your way to creating a stylish vignette that'll elevate the entire design scheme.

Avoid common coffee table styling mistakes like piling on too many items and limiting your personality to make the most of your collections' display. You'll be letting visitors know your interior design style, and about the items you hold dearest, each and every day – what better place for a conversation-starter than the living room, after all?

'These coffee table styling elements are sure to strike up a conversation and establish your home as a well-traveled, cultured one, thus relaying the same message about those that live within it,' says Studio McGee.

3. Have some fun with it

If you love to indulge in a good old family game night every once in a while but don't have a separate space that's up to the task, the coffee table can be a great place to gather and engage in some healthy competition. And, as Shea says, integrating games right into your living room design scheme is the perfect way to make these family room gatherings more accessible and spontaneous.

The good news, for those of you who value family fun and aesthetically pleasing interiors all at once, is that many of the classic games come in stylish, elevated designs nowadays, like McGee & Co.'s black-and-white marble tic-tac-toe board. You'll be able to display your favorite games without compromising your pared-back, warm neutral space.

'We love the idea of giving your family and your guests a reason to engage around the coffee table. Incorporating games into your coffee table styling is a great way to do that, or at least present the option,' writes the Studio McGee team.

Level up your family room's coffee table by decorating it with the accessories and collections that make you happy, above all. Not only will your design scheme benefit, but you'll enjoy living in your space more each and every day.

Of course, 2024's 'Queen of the Met Gala' has a residence overlooking the city that (pretty much) everybody is talking about this week. However, while the Dune actress may have made waves on Manhattan's red carpet, she has chosen an apartment across the water in Brooklyn – and the entire space is a designer lovers delight.

We may have already taken a moment for the statement slab backsplash in Zendaya's kitchen and her use of the 'unexpected red theory' in the living room – but the latter space also plays host to her curated coffee table styling that showcases the rule of three.

The 'rule of three' principle is certainly no new phenomenon, but Zendaya's contemporary styling brings a modern yet personal twist to the tried-and-tested rule. As seen in the sixth photo of the carousel below, she gathered three books alongside three art pieces that bring a sense of personality to her table. The actress also tied the two sets of three objects together with a statement vase and flowers – for a look that is contemporary, curated, and effortlessly timeless. But what makes this rule so powerful?

'The rule of three is a powerful principle in design, especially in interior design. It's all about creating balance, harmony, and visual interest by arranging elements in groups of three. Whether it’s three books on a coffee table or three mirrors on the dining room wall, this arrangement tends to be more appealing to the eye compared to an even number of items,' begins New York-based designer Emily Shron of Shron Design.

'It is thought that humans process information better in smaller, odd-numbered sets, which creates a sense of rhythm and makes the space feel cohesive.'

Zendaya's home offers the ultimate coffee table inspiration, but the rule works on surfaces beyond the living room. In previous projects, Shron has styled a kitchen table with three vases for a balanced aesthetic that brings a sense of cohesion to the busiest room of the home. Similarly, she decorated an entryway table (below) with three books and three vases to make a first impression that counts.

Plus, Shron is not exclusive in her admiration for the rule. New York-based designer Isy Runsewe from Isy's Interiors also uses it to 'create balance, rhythm, and visual interest' in her projects.

'The eye wants to create a rhythmic pattern, and by grouping things in threes, you're purposefully drawing the eye's attention but avoiding the feel of clutter, allowing the eye to span the space with a sense of cohesiveness,' Runsewe explains.

'At the same time, odd number groupings, particularly three, add visual interest with a hint of asymmetry, specifically when you start to add height to the arrangement. If you can create a focal point with three, then you automatically start to distribute the visual weight, again creating balance and rhythm.'

Shop H&G's coffee table edit

'[This rule] is a simple yet powerful guideline that can be adapted to suit different design styles and scenarios. The eye seeks this harmony and it's quite a pleasing result when implemented,' Runsewe adds. And if Zendaya is an advocate, we're not about to disagree.

Living rooms need to do a lot in our homes – they are a hub for family movie nights, mornings spent relaxing with a coffee, hosting friends, and so much more. 

As a result, we often cram our living rooms full of everything possible so that they cater to every event and every hobby. However, this is leaving our living rooms cramped and dysfunctional, designers warn. 

These are the five pieces of furniture you don’t actually need in your living room if you want to regain control of your sitting room, and why designers and organizers are desperate for a declutter. 

Furniture you don’t actually need in your living room

If you are looking for some quick ways to update a living room without buying anything new, getting rid of a few furniture pieces is the perfect way to go – even if it sounds counterintuitive. This is what designers suggest you axe first.   

1. Big central coffee tables

Although a traditional living room staple, a big, central coffee table can be surplus to purpose in some spaces – prompting designers to ask ‘does a living room need a coffee table?’

More often than not, they block walkways (especially in small living rooms) and become a magnet for clutter, gathering books, magazines, and miscellaneous items that contribute to visual chaos, suggests Nina Lichtenstein, professional interior designer and Founder of Custom Home Design by NL. 

Instead, Nina recommends focusing on having a few side tables within reach of each seat or using nesting tables that offer the same functionality without taking up as much floor space. 

2. Sectional sofas

Unless your living room is massive, professional designer Houna Bech generally recommends staying away from huge sectional sofas. ‘Even though they look comfortable, L-shaped sofas take up so much space, restricting movement and how you can arrange other furnishings in sectional living room ideas,’ she explains. 

‘A single, smaller sofa and a few chairs would be preferable. This increases the room's versatility and facilitates socializing.’  

3. Formal armchairs

While you should never declutter your sofa, your armchairs may be unnecessary depending on how you use your living room, continues interior designer Nina Lichtenstein. 

‘While a matching set of armchairs might look appealing, they can often be underutilized,’ she says. The space they take up could be used for more practical seating options, such as another sofa that offers more comfort, then maybe add in one accent chair if you have space and know you or guests will use it.  

‘Replace formal armchairs with seating that better suits your lifestyle and space,’ she urges. 

4. Large entertainment centers

In an era of streaming, having a massive entertainment center now makes a living room look dated, according to interior designer Tina Martindelcampo of Soul & Lane. With smart TVs having most of what we need built-in, with the occasional media box or games console the only things plugged in, we can afford to streamline these living room storage units, she recommends: 

‘My favorite idea is to source a beautiful wood or painted sideboard to place under a mounted TV. It provides hidden storage and creates a modern, more stylish media center.’ 

5. Oversized speakers

Freestanding speakers used to be a sign that you were in the know about your home tech – now they are a sign that you need to update your living room and modernize. With the advancement of technology, speakers have become smaller and more powerful and can often be built into your living room with very little cost.

So, while you’re refreshing your media unit, consider switching out the speakers for a simple way to make your living room more beautiful.  

FAQs

How do I manage storage space in a living room?  

With so much bulky furniture such as couches and tables in a living room, it is important to make your pieces work harder to help with storage needs. Picking a sofa with built-in storage or using under-bed storage bags under your sofa is a great way to manage storage space without compromising the flow of your room. Similarly, picking a coffee table that has storage or shelving or using a built-in media unit that has cabinet space large enough to house electrical equipment alongside games and so on is the best approach to avoid a cluttered space.  

What is the most important piece of furniture in a living room? 

When arranging and organizing a living room, it is usually vital that you do not get rid of your living room sofa. This is also the one area of the room where you want to spend, rather than save. At the very least, it is best to have a few comfortable chairs if a sofa doesn’t fit in a smaller living space.  

‘Ultimately, the key to effective furniture selection lies in prioritizing functionality, comfort, and aesthetics,’ concludes Nina Lichtenstein, interior designer. Taking a more minimalist approach can lead to a more harmonious space that can still cater to every need – helping to make your house look more inviting, even with less stuff. 

There's a very fine line between a coffee table appearing chic or cluttered. Often used as a large, flat catch-all for everything from gifted, hardcover art books to scented candles, coffee tables can ultimately be a design highlight in a room – if organized strategically, that is.

When it comes to styling coffee tables, we are taking notes from Laura Harrier. The Hollywood and Spider-Man: Homecoming actor posted a photo of her eclectic, modern living space, and our eyes were immediately drawn to her table full of fashion books, candles, and a fresh flower bouquet. 

Much like a bookshelf or a gallery wall, coffee tables are meant to be spaces that show off personality and taste; with that said, it's important to consider what to place on the surface and go into the organization process with an intentional mindset.

'Art, books, or objects placed on coffee tables need to be both beautiful and also hardwearing,' explains art curator Ellen Stone. 'These are in high-traffic areas and often the center of entertaining in our homes, so form and function need to intertwine.'

Stone says some of her personal favorite items to display on coffee tables include large hardback coffee table books on art, design and travel, but suggests that any prized possessions that beg to be shown off can be featured.

'Alongside books, small artworks, such as ceramics or photographs in antique frames, allow for some softness and variety in what I'm showcasing,' Stone states. 'Ceramic bowls or small sculptures can also serve a practical use too, as a place to put smaller trinkets or even shells found on your favorite beach.'

Once pieces have been decided on, it's time to organize. 

'Think sturdy first when building a display,' Stone says. 'The heaviest objects should be on the bottom (your coffee table books or wooden trays). Then build upwards from there. If you're going to place flowers or anything delicate, put that towards the centre of your table to prevent being knocked over.'

Finally, think about the overall aesthetics of the table, especially as it pertains to the rest of the room's existing design elements.

'When you're thinking about layering, take color and pattern into consideration. Be playful (your home should reflect who you are), but pile a table too high or overfill with too many objects - that's going to cause visual confusion and take away from the personal importance of each item,' she cautions. 'Remember though, the joy of a coffee table display is how often you can change it. Feel free to experiment and change up depending on whats happening in your day-to-day life.'

Shop the Harrier-inspired look

Coffee mugs may have coatings to prevent staining, but after a year or so of constant abuse, most mugs end up with unsightly coffee stains and sometimes even lingering odors. 

This might be okay if I wasn't presenting these mugs to guests or using them for drinks other than coffee. I don’t always fancy coffee-flavored hot cocoa, after all. 

In a dire attempt to avoid buying yet more of the best coffee mugs to add to my ever-growing collection, I decided to test three different cleaning tips for removing coffee stains from mugs and found that the best method was also the easiest.  

How to remove coffee stains from mugs

I decided to try three methods of cleaning coffee mugs using things I already had in my cleaning cabinet. For reference, the mugs were all the same type, and all had around the same amount of usage and staining – helping me to keep the test as fair as possible. 

I then started the tests – cleaning with vinegar, cleaning with baking soda, and cleaning with The Pink Stuff.  

1. Cleaning coffee stains with vinegar

Vinegar is a great gentle whitening agent, so it only made sense to start here when trying to remove coffee stains and deodorize my mugs.

I combined equal parts of distilled white vinegar and boiling water in the mug, allowing it to sit until the water was cool before pouring it away and washing it by hand as usual. The biggest downside to this method was that while it did get rid of the lingering coffee smell in the mug, it did make my kitchen smell like vinegar – I can’t see it being a thing people with nice-smelling kitchens do on the regular. 

That being said, it did help to lighten the coffee stains, but it didn't remove them altogether. Scrubbing them with a dish sponge and dish soap helped to finish the job. While this approach is great for light staining, I probably wouldn't rely on it every time. 

2. Cleaning coffee stains with baking soda

A simple baking soda scrub made from baking soda and water has frequently been hailed as one of the best DIY cleaning solutions by experts – and for good reason. Its gentle abrasive and whitening properties make it the perfect combination for everything from cleaning windows with baking soda to cleaning carpet with baking soda. 

As usual, I mixed baking soda with enough water to make a thick paste that I could then spread around the interior of my mug before letting it sit for around 10 minutes.  

This method certainly worked and was very effective at removing the stains with a bit of elbow grease. After letting it sit, I buffed it in circles to help remove any remaining discoloration before rinsing the paste away and washing it as normal. It required less effort than the vinegar approach and was a little quicker, too. What’s more, my kitchen didn't smell awful afterward, either. 

3. Cleaning coffee stains with The Pink Stuff

I don’t usually use The Pink Stuff on my dinnerware or mugs, but having had success with it before getting rid of hard water stains, I thought I would give it a go. 

I am thankful I did, as it was by far the most effective of the three – and it was the quickest, too, with no wait time at all. The process is similar to cleaning with a Magic Eraser – the light abrasive of the Pink Stuff Paste helps to buff away stains without scratching the mug’s surface (I was sure to use a clean, dry microfiber cloth to do this to mitigate the risk further), lifting the stains clean off the mug. 

The results were similar to the baking soda method, which is unsurprising given that The Pink Stuff’s main ingredient is sodium carbonate. Still, it was quicker, I think, thanks to the sodium silicate and quartz, giving it a rougher, tougher action and soap, helping to break down the grease coffee deposits. 

The results were similar to the baking soda method, which is unsurprising given that The Pink Stuff’s main ingredient is sodium carbonate. Still, it wa quicker, I think, thanks to the sodium silicate and quartz, giving it a rougher, tougher action and soap, helping to break down the grease coffee deposits. 

FAQs

What causes coffee stains on mug?

Just as it stains clothing or furniture, coffee stains in mugs are caused by tannins and oils in the coffee (especially freshly ground coffee). Over time and with repeated use, these marks will start to discolor porcelain, glass, and stainless steel unless you take measures to remove them completely every time.  

How do you stop coffee mugs from staining?

If you want to prevent coffee mugs from staining, try washing the mug out fully immediately after you have finished your drink. Washing with warm water and soap will dissolve the oils before they have a chance to set in the mug, whether it's sitting on your coffee table or in the dishwasher.  

The easiest way to remove coffee stains from mugs is a toss-up between The Pink Stuff paste and baking soda. Both were effective in removing the stains quickly, one requiring just a little less elbow grease than the other. The method you should use will largely come down to the amount of staining you must remove and what you already have in your cleaning cabinet.  

Actor, model, and all-around stylish socialite Emily Ratajkowski recently posted a photo in her living room, and between the beautiful artwork and natural stone side table, we are taking design notes. The highlight of the space, however, is the trending color that doesn't seem to be dying out anytime soon: green.

EmRata's soft, sage sofa and dark, marbled coffee table are just the right amount of color, subdued enough to match with neutrals yet vibrant enough to draw visual interest to the everyday items.

There's solid evidence that decorating with green is a mood-booster, mostly because of its abundance in the outside world.

'Green, particularly in its softer, more muted shades, evokes a sense of tranquility and peace,' says Matthew O’Grady, director of Thomas Matthew Kitchens & Furniture. 'It's a color linked to nature, promoting feelings of refreshment, relaxation, and equilibrium. It is often used in spaces where people want to unwind and refresh, as it provides a grounding sensibility.'

Green can act as a hero color within many trends, but it's a nature-inspired one that holds court for the cool tone.

'More people are inclined towards creating spaces that feel soothing and calm, reconnecting with nature - a trend known as 'Biophilic Design,' explains O'Grady. 'Within this trend, different shades of green are greatly favored. From evergreen to olive, sage to pistachio, the use of green in decor can range from walls to furniture and accessories.'

While green can act as a neutral, O'Grady recommends mixing darker hues with metallics for a luxe look.

'Notably, we're seeing a trend for darker, more dramatic greens in other rooms of the home, such as emerald green or even forest green,' he says. 'These colors can add depth and a touch of luxury to a space when paired with gold or brass accents.'

Texture is also a great way to incorporate more dimensions into a space, whether it's rough granite, smooth marble (like EmRata's coffee table), or a velvet sofa.

Shop H&G's green furniture edit

Below, we have selected a few versatile, green pieces suitable for any living room.

Greenhouses are valuable to gardeners. They are typically glass structures that help to germinate seeds and support the growth of young plants by keeping them warm and allowing lots of natural light in. 

If you live in an urban environment or don't have the capacity for a greenhouse, you may have never considered using one. However, indoor greenhouses have become increasingly popular, and many plant enthusiasts opt for them as an indoor growing system to support their plants.

While there are many indoor greenhouse ideas on the market, like this miniature indoor greenhouse from Amazon, with a bit of creativity you can turn items in your home into a miniature indoor greenhouse. All you need to do to create an effective indoor greenhouse is provide optimal conditions of light, warmth and moisture. Here's our list of DIY ideas to try with advice from experts to ensure they are successful.

4 DIY indoor greenhouse ideas

Just because you don't have a yard or the space for a greenhouse doesn't mean you can't benefit from them. Our expert list of ideas can help you to create a DIY greenhouse to keep inside your home so that you can effectively support the growth of your plants indoors.

1. Glass cabinet

This one is easy. It just requires using a glass cabinet as a greenhouse, like this beautiful cabinet from Anthropologie. 

'If the cabinet has timber shelves, you want to line these with plastic otherwise they'll warp and eventually fall apart from all the moisture,' says Annette Hird, expert gardener at Easy Urban Gardens.

'The most important thing to remember with this type of set-up is that your plants will need light, airflow and humidity,' says Annette. 'My first suggestion would be to invest in a proper grow light and hang that inside at the top of the cabinet so the light shines down on the plants,' she adds. 

Many people creating indoor greenhouses from cabinets attach grow lights, like these grow lights from Amazon, and place humidifiers inside to help heat the greenhouse. This will provide optimal conditions for growth, as long as you also take care to occasionally open the cabinet to provide airflow. 

2. Glass coffee table

Another indoor greenhouse idea that doesn't require too much effort is using a coffee table with a glass top and shelf underneath to hold the plants. There are many on the market that would work, such as this cocktail table from Ashley Furniture. 

'Line the shelf with some plastic and then find some shallow trays that will fit neatly on the shelf,' says Annette.

'Fill these trays with pebbles so that you can sit your pot plants on top of them. Add some slimline LED light strips around the frame that holds the glass in place,' she adds.

By placing the plants on pebble trays, like this humidity tray from Amazon, you can help to create a humid environment for the plants. Sunlight coming through the glass top will likewise increase warmth and encourage growth.

'While this is not a completely enclosed greenhouse, it will still work as a good environment for many types of indoor plants and makes a great focal piece in your living room,' says Annette.

3. Plastic food container

You can repurpose plastic food containers to create DIY indoor greenhouse ideas. 

'As far as DIY materials for indoor greenhouses goes, my favorite by far is the clam-shell plastic container that strawberries and grapes are often sold in,' says Meredith Bishop, sustainable flower grower and owner of Bloom and Bounty.

'They provide ample room in which roots can grow - often as much as 3-4 inches of soil depth below the lip of the container - and come with pre-made holes for airflow and oxygen uptake. They also have a lid, which ensures that the greenhouse will hold on to humidity during germination, but can be left open as seedlings grow taller,' she adds.

For this DIY greenhouse to be effective, make sure to keep your container in a bright spot with plenty of natural light, such as a windowsill.

4. Storage box

On a larger scale than food containers but working in a similar way, you can place your plants in a large, clear storage container to create a greenhouse effect.

'This is perfect for those wanting to grow larger plants indoors for longer stretches,' says Meredith. 'Provide plenty of small holes for drainage and airflow, and be sure the container has a tight fitting lid to build up ample humidity,' she adds.

Like the glass cabinet greenhouses, you can add a grow light or humidifier to provide optimal conditions and encourage growth of young plants. 

'Once danger of frost has passed and warm temperatures have arrived, you can move your DIY indoor greenhouse outdoors for the plants to slowly acclimate to outside temperatures before being transplanted into the garden,' says Meredith.

FAQs

Do DIY indoor greenhouses work?

It's very easy to repurpose household items into DIY greenhouses that will effectively support the growth of your plants and seedlings. 

'Once you understand what makes seeds germinate and grow, the world of DIY greenhouse materials is truly endless,' says Meredith Bishop, sustainable flower grower and owner of Bloom and Bounty.

You just have to ensure your DIY indoor greenhouse provides plenty of light, moisture and warmth to encourage growth of your plants. Replicate the environment an outdoor greenhouse provides, such as a clear front to allow plenty of direct light in, and your DIY indoor greenhouse should work well.

If you have never considered using a greenhouse before because you haven't had the space or even a backyard to keep it, why not consider creating your own indoor greenhouse ideas? These are smaller and convenient to keep in the home, and there are lots of household items you can use to create one. Just ensure to provide the optimal environment and your DIY will be successful. You can likewise make DIY seed tray alternatives from everyday items to help germinate your seeds indoors.

Getting the layout of your living room down is no easy feat, and it sometimes takes some rearranging before it looks just right. Whether you've got all the space in the world, or some of your furniture is proving a bit unwieldy, you might be looking for fresh and exciting layout ideas to help you make the next move.

Luckily, interior designer Shea McGee just took to Instagram to share a living room layout hack that leaves your room with a 'designer' look (and the perfect lighting). By fitting a small console table in between the sofa and the wall, she adds dimension and visual interest to the living room. Here's how Shea masters the look, all while maintaining her signature modern charm style.

How to try the console table trick at home

'One other thing we did in here is style a console between the wall and the sofa. This is a tip if you have an extra 12 to 18 inches to spare in your living room and the setup is a sofa against the wall, try to pull the sofa forward and incorporate a console,' Shea says in the video, filmed amongst McGee & Co.' Spring Collection in Ojai, California.

While the living room without the console 'would fall kind of flat,' Shea says the added table created 'additional surface for styling,' making the space more interesting. Plus, she was able to add the Bettencourt Table Lamp from McGee & Co., which brings sophisticated design and a touch of ambient lighting to the high-use space.

'This helps your room feel more designer than pushing your furniture up against the walls,' she explains.

In addition to the lamp, Shea stacks books, decorative accessories and faux plants on the console, creating a lively and homey overall look. Behind the console, a large, nature-inspired print steals the show.

'The artwork that is the focal point of this living room look is definitely inspired by the landscape here in Ojai. Every home that I design I always try to find a piece or two that reflects the landscape around us so that we can bring that outdoors in,' says Shea.

The faux plants stacked atop the console come from McGee & Co.'s Spring Collection, and add texture and a rustic feel to the space. When designing your own console, the possibilities are truly endless – as with styling a coffee table – this is an opportunity to let your personality shine.

By giving this statement sofa some room to breathe by breaking up the space with a console table, Shea allows us to appreciate each and every gorgeous design detail present in the space. Plus, the console is functional, allowing for additional place to set drinks or stow family heirlooms. The perfect height to remain mostly hidden behind the couch, the table doesn't detract from this beautiful modern rustic room.

Shea's smart console table trick leaves the room feeling spacious – and graced with a designer's eye. By adding a bit of ambient lighting and fresh accessories to this newfound focal point, your living room layout is sure to shine.

Ashley Tisdale has been making a name for herself beyond the screen these last few years, entering the interior sector with her lifestyle and wellness brand, Frenshe. It makes sense, then, that the High School Musical star's own home is a trend-forward oasis, combining modern accents with timeless staple pieces.

Her living space, in particular, is thoughtfully curated to evoke a sense of calm. She seems to have an affinity towards coffee tables made of raw, organic, and natural materials, and we have to admit that it's rubbing off on us, too.

During the winter season, we tend to hibernate, and our homes become our sanctuaries from the cold. Bringing in pieces that are made of organic materials can create a natural ambience in even the most modern spaces; and to top it off, experts say it can improve mental health.

'There is strong evidence that the stronger our connection with nature, the happier we are,' says Michael Sillitoe, Design Manager at Nulty Bespoke. 'Yet our 'natural' habitat is increasingly an urban one. This is where biophilic design comes in, as it strives to counteract the effects of modern urban life by bringing nature into a space.'

When looking for organic pieces to incorporate into the home, unlearning what perfect pieces should look like is part of the process.

'The key to this sensibility is beautiful imperfections,' Michael says. 'Nature isn’t flawless; it’s a living and breathing entity, so design must reflect this.'

Seek out carved and crafted pieces, such as wood tables, which may have curves or markings that don't technically look 'perfect' but possess charm and a one-of-a-kind essence.

Beyond tables, Michael says organic materials are also trending within the lighting sphere, where designers are taking creative leaps using raw materials to create truly remarkable pieces.

'The prevalence of organic forms isn't new in the world of decorative lighting – flowing lines and shapes are timeless and lend themselves perfectly to beautifully realized schemes where chandeliers and pendants are used to create a focal point,' he says. 'But for 2024, the trend will truly deepen due to a growing appreciation for biophilic design and a desire to connect with the integrity of nature.'

Peruse our nature-inspired living room picks below.

Coffee tables are often the focal part of a living room. While serving as a functional space to hold practical items, they also add design interest to a space when styled intentionally with decorative objects.

But knowing exactly where to start with your coffee table styling can be tricky: there's a fine line between looking curated and cluttered. Interior designer Marie Flanigan helps demystify the process, sharing simple steps she uses to ensure a considered and stylish coffee table decor display, and it's all about using vignettes.

Vignettes, a term used often in the interior design world, simply refers to where decorative items are intentionally grouped on any surface in a room, with the aim of adding design interest to a space. 

'A coffee table can be one of the most visual and styled aspects of a living room,' Marie tells H&G. 'I love styling coffee tables because they are a true reflection of their inhabitants.'

Marie continues to share some simple steps you can follow to help you on your way to achieving a curated look. To begin, she recommends grouping your table into sections according to its shape: 'Think of your table in sections. For a square table, you might delineate the surface into four sections. For a slimmer, rectangular table, it might be two.'

The next step is choosing which items to incorporate. There should be a balance between practical items you reach for daily, as well as added decor items that enhance visual appeal: 'When looking at your table, figure out what components serve your home while adding visual appeal.' 

You can then focus on displaying your selected items on each of the divided sections: 'Use the styling pieces to fill each section or vignette. For a lot of clients, they incorporate a small floral arrangement or bud vase, a tray for organizing remote controls or coasters, coffee table books for height topped with a small bowl, a large ceramic for texture, and even a décor piece like glass beads. Creating separate vignettes gives the table a thoughtful and curated look that won’t feel cluttered.'

As Marie implies above, make sure to consider height when choosing items for your coffee table. If everything is of the same height, it can end up looking flat, whereas experimenting with layering items of different heights creates a more visually balanced look. 

Below, we've rounded up some decor items for you to shop which would make for stylish additions to your coffee table display. If you're not sure where to start, think about items that are meaningful to you, as a coffee table should always reflect the interests of the homeowner. 

Styling a coffee table might seem like a simple task, but designers say these living room must-haves require quite a bit of consideration. From selecting the right color and material to choosing the perfect items to top the table, there are so many decisions to make – and a lot of room for coffee table mistakes.

Whether you're picking out new furniture, or simply styling the coffee table you've got, you'll want to make the table an eye-catching centerpiece that still serves a purpose. To get a better sense of what to avoid, we compiled a list of the top five coffee table mistakes designers say to avoid at all costs. Here's what the experts had to say.

5 mistakes you're making with your coffee table

If you're sure to avoid these common pitfalls, designers say you'll be well on your way to creating an organized, proportional, and aesthetically pleasing coffee table. Here's how to achieve the look.

1. Ignoring design potential

Beyond stocking up on coffee table books, it's easy to treat your table as a footrest or catch-all – and not much more. But Kathy Kuo, interior designer and CEO of Kathy Kuo Home, says that viewing your coffee table as a chance to elevate your living room's design scheme is the first step to styling success.

'There's really no one right way to style a coffee table, but it's definitely a mistake not to use your coffee table surface as an opportunity to create a really beautiful, styled vignette. I recommend starting with a decorative tray and experimenting with different combinations of coffee table books, scented candles, framed photos, and sculptural treasures,' says Kathy.

2. Piling things on

Though curating a selection of items to top your coffee table is a great start, you won't want to go too far. Too many decorations can cause a cluttered look, and quickly turn the coffee table into a disheveled mess. 

Helen Ashmore, head of design at Laura Ashley, offers a simple solution to an over-the-top approach to coffee table accessories: decorative trays.

'I like to create zones on the coffee tabletop through the use of decorative trays. These are perfect for storing your remotes and devices. Furthermore, I would add a stack of design books to create some height difference, candles and a gorgeous bouquet of fresh flowers,' says Helen.

Trays offer organization in disguise, making sure every item is in its place without unsightly storage solutions. By stashing objects in zones and adding a bit of dimension with additional decorations, you can design a curated, clutter-free coffee table.

3. Mismatching the table with the room

When it comes to the table itself, there's more to keep in mind than aesthetic appeal. Elizabeth Krueger, principal designer of Elizabeth Krueger Design, says a common living room design mistake she sees is a coffee table that doesn't match up with the rest of the room.

'Material is important, depending on how you use the space. I love an upholstered ottoman in a room where I'm watching TV and a harder surface if it is more of a conversational area,' she says.

Size and scale matter as well, making or breaking a coffee table's impact on the rest of the room. Elizabeth says a table works best when placed 15 to 18 inches away from the sofa's edge, so suggests picking up a measuring tape before committing to one design.

'Check the height of the table too – a table that is too high or too low can make the space uncomfortable,' she says.

4. Opting for the wrong size

Alexandra Denburg, principal designer at New York-based M&P Design Group, also urges the importance of picking a coffee table of appropriate size for your space. 

'Coffee table mistakes tend to be less about the style of the coffee table, and more about shape, size, and placement,' she says.

If all living room seating – whether sofas, benches or armchairs – is within reach of the table, you've found one of the right size. If not, the table is likely too small, she says.

'Should your lucky problem involve a room so large that one coffee table can’t possibly aid each seat, allow the sofa to dictate the coffee table’s length. Additional seating can be accompanied by side tables or drink tables,' says Alexandra.

When placing the main coffee table, make sure to leave enough space between furniture that you're able to easily navigate the room – but not so much room that the table is difficult to reach. Alexandra suggests between 15 and 25 inches from the edge of each seat to the table.

4. Limiting your personality

Betsy Burnham, principal designer and founder of Los Angeles-based Burnham Design, emphasizes the importance of finding a coffee table that works well with the rest of your living room furniture. She suggests avoiding tables that are far too short to be functional.

'Most sofas and chairs have seat heights of 18 to 19 inches, and ideally the height of a coffee table should align. A little shorter or taller can be interesting – if you’re a pro, playing with scale is a lot of fun – but still, I typically avoid tables that are on the low end because they’re often difficult for clients to use,' says Betsy.

Perhaps the most important part of styling a coffee table, though, is letting your personality shine. Betsy says that coffee tables are 'wonderful design opportunities,' offering homeowners a chance to personalize their space.

'They can serve as sculpture, a splash in a quiet room, or a quiet backdrop for accessory styling. It’s fun to play with materials (from wood or stone to metal or glass) and to use either vintage or new pieces,' she says.

When styling coffee tables, the team at Burnham Design opts for stacks of 'graphically interesting books' that align with clients' personalities, sculptural accessories 'for added height and interest,' and trays or boxes to hold smaller items. Betsy also suggests introducing vases, ideally handmade, to bring a bit of life and texture into the mix.

'Table accessories are another place to play with high and low, and depending on the aesthetic of the room, your accessories can be spare and textural, or bursting with color and personality,' she says.

Curating a coffee table that's both functional and suited to your design preferences can take some time and thoughtful contemplation. But with these designer don'ts in mind, your living room's centerpiece will be simply stunning, and perfectly suited to you.

Designing a living room is all about balancing functionality with style. Not only does this room need to be a practical space for socializing and relaxing, but you will also want it to reflect the overall interior style of your home. 

While many decor elements will ensure a balanced and visually pleasing space, the choice of furniture can be one of the most crucial. For interior designer Ines Kelly Mazzotta, Principal Designer at Kelly Hopter Interiors, it's the choice of coffee table that can have a dramatic effect on how good the room looks, whilst also being one of the most common interior design mistakes. 

Discussing her expertise in designing a visually pleasing and functional living room, Ines explains in the video above: 'Tip number one is to make sure that your coffee table is sufficiently large. I’m focusing specifically on the coffee table because that’s one living room design mistake that I see happen very often.'

'Homeowners choose fully, properly sized sofa and chairs, and then we have this small coffee table that’s really quite far removed from all the seating. I'm a big fan of creating welcoming, intimate seating areas,' she continues.

Choosing the wrong size of coffee table doesn't just negatively impact the room's practicality, but it can also prevent the space from feeling inviting, as Ines continues to explain: 'When you have a coffee table that is too small, not only is it difficult to put down your drink, but perhaps even more importantly, you have a lot of empty space in front of where you sit and psychologically that prevents us from feeling cozy and intimate.'

To combat this common design mistake and avoid having an excessive amount of space in front of the sofa, as a general rule, Ines advises choosing a coffee table that is 'two-thirds of the length of your sofa.' By doing so, the overall feel will be much more intimate, resulting in a cozy living room. Once you've decided on a well-sized coffee table, this should then be positioned 'about 18 to 20 inches away from the edge of your seat.'

'That distance, 18 to 20 inches, allows you to comfortably get in and out but will again eliminate that dead space, that empty space when you sit down' concludes Ines.

Below, we've rounded up some of our favorite coffee tables for you to shop that will act as a stylish yet practical focal point in your living room – depending on the look you want to create. 

For more design help in the living room, we've rounded up some super simple ways to make your living room more beautiful, whether you're looking to make some larger changes in 2024 or rather embrace some subtle decor additions for a refreshed feel. 

A coffee table not only creates a practical storage space, it provides the perfect place to get creative with a whole host of decorative styling opportunities, making it one of the most important and versatile pieces of furniture in a living room.

To help you style your coffee table decor to create a beautiful display, Kathy Kuo, interior designer and founder of homeware brand, Kathy Kuo Home, has shared with us the three essential coffee table styling rules that she always follows in her designs. 

From the importance of coffee table books, to the versatility of decorative trays, follow Kathy's styling tips to ensure your coffee table is a beautiful, central focal point in your living room space.

1. Use decorative trays

Decorative trays are ideal for organizing the objects on your coffee table into one zoned area, and they can add another layer of texture, shape and color to your coffee table design. 

Kathy says, 'I love to use decorative trays when styling my coffee table. Trays are a great way to add visual interest and provide a nice structure to style a fun vignette inside of. With a two-piece coffee table, such as our Interlude Amerigo Mid Century Modern design shown below, I use two trays that are different sizes but have a coordinated look – I love that they look cohesive without being matchy-matchy.'

2. Style with coffee table books

'It goes without saying that coffee table books are a fun and versatile styling element for any coffee table – 'coffee table' is literally right there in the description! I like to play around with stacking coffee table books in different combinations to add height and pops of color. 

My favorite thing about using coffee table books to style a tabletop is that, aside from looking great, they're so interactive and they're a lovely way to infuse your interests and passions into your home decor,' says Kathy.

3. Incorporate a mix of design elements

From decorative trays and coffee table books, to candles and ornaments, the most interesting and unique of coffee table displays will always incorporate a range of different items, as Kathy explains.

'When styling a coffee table, it's important to aim for a mix of design elements that speak to practical concerns as well as aesthetic ones. Of course you'll want beautiful decorative objects and meaningful touchstones – I have framed photos of my kids and my treasured Simon Pearce singing bowl – but you'll also want have things like coasters, a little box or bowl for TV remotes, and space for luxe extras like the best candles, reed diffusers, and bud vases.'

Shop Kathy Kuo's coffee table look

FAQs

If you're unsure on what items you should display on your coffee table, or your tabletop is feeling a little cluttered and overwhelmed, we explore the items never to store on a coffee table in our dedicated feature.

Do you struggle with styling small spaces? When decorating a tiny room like a closet or dressing room, factors like scale and color become extra important. Choosing decor without making the room feel too crowded or too minimal is an incredibly difficult balance to strike, especially when the space includes furniture. 

Adele's dressing room epitomizes how one well-placed piece of furniture can be used to make a small room feel perfectly designed. It all comes down to the styling of her coffee table.

Adele's dressing room coffee table is a chic, light-colored, and checked square piece of furniture. In the center of the coffee table, a dark, round tray offsets the shape of the piece. In the middle, decorative objects including a large crystal, a diffuser, and a colorful box take center stage. The decor leaves enough space to use the table for storage, which Adele has used to place her book (it's Her Majesty, by the way).

Artem Kropovinsky, interior designer and founder of Arsight, says Adele's design perfectly captures ideal coffee table styling in a small space. He says, 'An eye-catching focal point is recommended for a small square coffee table such as a vase with two additional items such as plants or books placed close by. It helps to create a balanced yet dynamic look.' 

Carlin van Noppen, head interior designer and founder of Fig Linens and Home adds, 'When arranging coffee table decor, you should be placing decorative objects in sets of either 3 or 5. These numbers will give the coffee table a polished feel, thus making the decor look complete in a small space.'

Further, Artem agrees wholeheartedly with Adele's choice of color in her closet decor. He says, 'The dark-colored accessories on a light table add depth and profundity.' Artem continues, 'This combination creates an eye-catching feature on the table and draws attention.' This concept is exemplified in the way that Adele's dark decor pops so visibly on her light coffee table.

When arranging a coffee table in a small space, size matters. Artem suggests, 'Keep scale in mind. Ensure you choose accessories that are sized right enough so as not to bring a messy look to the table.' Adele's coffee table perfectly strikes this balance with a round tray that contains decorative objects while leaving space for storage. Together, the square coffee table and its decor bring a sense of glamor and completion to Adele's walk-in closet.

Arranging a coffee table is an easy way to elevate any small space as long as you keep color, scale, and the number of objects at the top of your mind. If you're not sure, you can always look to Adele's dressing room for inspiration. 

A coffee table has always been seen as an essential piece of living room furniture. The question of whether you need one seems like a straightforward yes, right? Well,  before it joins all the other pieces on a list of living room ideas, it’s worth considering whether your living room actually needs a coffee table, or are there other options that could prove equally good, or even suit some living rooms better. 

When space is tight is filling that only visible space with a bulky piece of furniture really the right choice? And even in larger living rooms does a coffee table work hard enough to warrant being included in the layout or should you look to bring in more end tables or foot stools or something more multifunctional and flexible? Is the coffee table becoming redundant?

We asked designers to weigh in on when a coffee table can work and when you are best forgoing one. 

Is a living room coffee table essential?

A coffee table definitely isn’t a requirement for the living room, according to design professionals.

‘You do not need a coffee table in your living room,’ says Taylor Ross, CEO and Founder of heirloom furniture designers Chronicle Home. ‘Living rooms are just the ideas of the people living there. And people are different.’

In fact, a coffee table is just one option when you’re exploring living room furniture ideas, and alternatives may suit the room and your lifestyle better. Here, we give the expert view on the coffee table, and the other furniture designs to consider instead.

Why a living room can benefit from a coffee table

The professionals’ verdict is that a living room doesn’t need a coffee table. However, there’s no denying that it can be a great choice. 

‘A coffee table isn’t just functional furniture, it’s an added design element that can tie a room together,’ says Lubo Todorov, head of visual merchandising at Raft Furniture. ‘Think about it, the styling decisions that elevate and add life to a living room are fresh flowers and coffee table books. This is indication enough that a coffee table is a centerpiece that will draw the eye in.

‘When styling Raft showrooms and photoshoots, I love incorporating coffee tables into a living room to play around with shape,’ Lubo adds. ‘For example, a room with a square-armed sofa, square rug and square mirror can gain a real sense of flow and depth by adding a round coffee table.’

Choose side tables in a small room

But while a coffee table can be a fabulous centerpiece, if your room is not generously sized, it might not need this piece of furniture. ‘If your living room is on the smaller side, a coffee table may make the space feel cramped,’ warns interior decorator Vivianne Chow of Viv and Tim Home. 

To replace its functionality? ‘You can consider using alternatives like nesting tables which can be stacked when not in use or side tables that are placed at the end of the couch,’ says Vivianne.

Add softness with an ottoman

There may be no necessity for a coffee table when an ottoman fits the bill: one of these can provide the functions of a table while offering other benefits you might appreciate. 

‘An ottoman provides a soft surface where a coffee table is a hard one,’ says editor of Homes & Gardens online Jennifer Ebert. ‘That makes it more forgiving when you have young kids running around but whatever age a home’s inhabitants, it adds coziness to the room, making it all the more welcoming.

‘As an upholstered piece, an ottoman can also add a hit of pattern and wonderful tactility,’ she adds.

Be mindful that if an ottoman does take the place of a coffee table, a tray can be put on top to provide a surface on which to set down drinks securely or to be used in the same way you would in coffee table styling ideas.

Try alternatives in an open-concept room

Like a small room, an open-concept room may not need a coffee table. ‘If you’re working with an open-plan space that already has a kitchen island and dining table, you don’t want your room to feel overwhelmed by surfaces,’ explains Lubo Todorov.

Lubo suggests alternatives such as a teak armrest that slots onto the arm of a couch, or a neat sofa table with a base that slides under the furniture to bring its top surface comfortably near without taking up much floor space.

Equally, you might want to try a footstool. ‘You can get a matching footstool for your sofa that can double up as a coffee table,’ says Lubo. ‘This will also help you to maintain warmth with texture in an open-plan living room.’

Swap in a storage design

If there isn’t a lot of space to stash all you want to keep to hand in the living room, then a trunk might be what you need rather than a coffee table. It will still make an attractive feature, and if you enjoy decorating with vintage or decorating with antiques, sourcing a piece that’s had a previous life is a great way to give the living room individual style.

‘Capacious inside, a trunk is one of my favorite living room storage ideas,’ says Jennifer Ebert. ‘It can hold pillows and throws out of season to make a decor swap a quick process when the time comes.’ 

Shop our favorite coffee tables

FAQs

Coffee table decor ideas can make it the star of the show in a living room, but it may not prove to be the right piece for a room. A living room end table can be beautifully styled as part of the room’s aesthetic as well as being functional. Whichever tables you select, follow the rules on arranging living room furniture for a space that’s comfortable to occupy as well as pleasing to the eye.

Current RHONY Jenna Lyons may be associated with her role in the aforementioned Bravo series, but she also has an impressive design-focused résumé to her name – and nothing showcases her background quite like her SoHo apartment.

It's perhaps already no secret that Jenna has a trend-setting home, from her pink sofa to her unlacquered brass kitchen (to which we've already penned love letters). This time, however, Jenna's coffee table, or rather, the candles on her table, have warranted our attention – and one look at these statement pieces makes it clear why. 

Designed by Creative Candles, these 30-inch taper candles are sure to take center stage in any living room, whether we exhibit them on a marble coffee table like Jenna, decorate our mantel, or create an impressive tablescape (it's the season, after all). 

In her post, Jenna shared she was 'obsessed' with her Creative Candles, and honestly, we are too. They demand attention without overwhelming our space and are (almost) too dramatic to light but of course, if Jenna has taken the plunge, we too will follow suit.  

Followers of Jenna will already know that she is no stranger to experimental candles, from these 30-inch offerings to her chunky black candle sticks that have also received approval from her cat, evidently. 

In her blog, Jenna also reiterates the influence of candles, encouraging us to light them wherever possible, not only for 'special occasions', which we can certainly get behind as the days grow ever shorter.

'Taper candles are right for any occasion – not just special ones... small, carefully chosen details can warm up a space and make it feel like home.'

For those who want to experiment with this look, but can't accommodate 30-inch pieces, we've got you covered. Here are some of our favorite tall candles, along with a chunky candle holder to create a chic, statement look

As Jenna reminds us, we need no special occasion to light candles around our homes, but as the holiday approaches ever quickly, there is no better time to make the investment and go tall, if we dare. 

The coffee table could be regarded as the beating heart of a living room space. It pays to give it the perfect spot in your living room layout, as one that is in the wrong place, too far or too close to your couch, can interrupt the flow of the room, invite awkward stretching to reach coffee cups, or heaven forbid, spills.

Not only is it where we drink lattes – made in our trusty coffee makers – but it is also where we gather with friends and family. It is a vessel for connecting and relaxing, not to mention there are endless ways you can style your coffee table, too.

With that said, a coffee table does need special attention for it to bring joy to this space. Just as when defining the layout of any room, building an aesthetic that supports function is key, and a poorly placed coffee table will not do. 

How far should your coffee table be from your couch?

When arranging living room furniture, steering clear of symmetry and working with the room's dimensions can create a space that feels inviting but that is inherently functional too.

With as important a piece of furniture as the coffee table, there are some factors to consider so that your best espresso cup stays intact, and your favorite coffee table book within reach. This is what to go by, according to designers.

1. Take 16-18 inches as 'the rule of thumb'

When it comes down to precise measurements, the interior designers we spoke with all go by the same golden rule: between 16-18 inches, with some recommending 17 inches exactly. Alexia Sheinman, chief strategy and brand officer of Pembrooke & Ives, explains more on the why: 'It is a comfortable distance to pass through and move around the table but also to be able to rest a drink down while sitting on the sofa.' 

Owner and interior designer at VERDE Interior Design, Luis Carmona tells us that leaving 16-18 inches between a couch and coffee table is the rule of thumb to go by for a space that feels balanced. 'These measurements give enough room for walking and the placement of feet without the feeling of being crowded,' says Carmona.

2. Size matters in this instance

At this stage, you might be wondering what to do if your space isn't currently accommodating this much room surrounding your coffee table. Should you be working with a particularly small or narrow lounge, you may need to reconsider your choice of couch or coffee table design so that they work better together to enhance your space.

Carmona recommends sizing down so as not to overwhelm the area: 'If one has a small space, I always suggest getting a regular-sized sofa while acquiring a smaller coffee table to make the space not feel so cluttered.'

Sheinman also recommends an alternative route to a well-balanced space: 'Opt for a narrower table, or for side tables instead.'

Taking into account how your space is already styled, and how you use it day-to-day will help with this design decision. 'It is always easier to find more surface areas to place a drink or decor item rather than finding more places for guests to sit,' adds Carmona.

3. Work with the shape of the coffee table itself

Carmona adds that shape plays an important part in creating a more inviting finish: 'Finding a coffee table with rounded corners or an asymmetrical shape also helps the space not feel as small.'

This will naturally affect the ratio between the coffee table and the couch which will impact how the space feels. 

'As for the ratio between a coffee table and couch, I always suggest a table that is at least 2/3 the size of the couch,' notes Carmona. 'Not only does that give a visually aesthetic look to the space, but it also is functional in the sense where all individuals on the couch should be easily able to reach the coffee table to place their drinks, phone, or dare I say, feet.'

When it comes to feet on the coffee table, we will let you make the rules.

FAQs

Though it might seem a little over the top, it pays to be specific with measurements when finding the perfect layout for your space – coffee table included.

Area rugs bring contrasting texture or color to a living room floor, but should you place a rug below a coffee table as part of your design, according to interiors professionals – or isn’t this the best option any or all of the time?

Executing living room ideas whatever its dimensions and the style and color combination desired is an exciting project. It’s demanding, too, since this is a room used daily and shared with family and the visitors to your home.

But what are the rules interior designers follow about placing a rug under a coffee table as part of the choices made for the living room? We asked them to reveal their insights and the style guidelines they follow.

Placing a rug under a coffee table: what the pros think

Living room flooring can easily be complemented by the addition of a living room rug, adding both interest and comfort to the space. But what’s the verdict from interiors professionals about placing the rug under the coffee table? The answer is that in many circumstances it can be a good idea, but it pays to be aware of some details.

‘Adding a rug under your coffee table can be a game-changer in terms of aesthetics and comfort in your living room,’ says Cristiana Crin, director of design and founder at Perpetuum Designs. ‘However, it’s important to consider the circumstances, size, placement, and rug fibers to make sure it’s the right choice for your space.’

Discover the benefits, what to think about when selecting, and when it might not be a good idea from the experts.

Aesthetic benefits

A rug under a coffee table can be a vital element of a living room. ‘While traditionally rugs were considered merely an aesthetic choice, in modern design, they act as strategic design anchors,’ says interior designer Artem Kropovinsky. ‘Positioned under a coffee table, they can unify the elements around it, offering a seamless flow to the eye.’

Quiet and comfort

A rug below a coffee table can also make the room a quieter place. ‘Rugs can help dampen noise in a room by absorbing sound, which is particularly useful in open-concept living areas,’ says Cristiana Crin.

It’s a cozy addition to the room as well. ‘Rugs provide warmth and comfort under foot, making your seating area feel more inviting and comfortable for lounging or entertaining guests,’ she says.

Size matters

The dimensions of the rug count, interior designers agree. However, when selecting a size that will look stylish and prove practical it’s not just the area immediately below the coffee table on which you should focus. 

‘The rug should be large enough to accommodate the coffee table and the surrounding seating area,’ says Cristiana Crin. ‘Ideally, it should extend at least 18 inches beyond the coffee table’s edges.’

Artem Kropovinsky agrees that a rug under a coffee table should zone the room. ‘Let the rug’s shape and size be dictated by the conversation area it envelops rather than just the coffee table’s dimensions,’ he says.

As to whether the rug is sized to extend completely underneath the seating? ‘Rule of thumb is all feet of furniture on the rug or off but I find it’s best to have all feet on the rug if possible (fewer trip hazards, makes the room feel larger, more cohesive),’ advises Christina Kim, principal designer and owner of Christina Kim Interior Design.

Focus on fibers

As mentioned above, a rug is a tactile element of a living room. ‘By placing one under the coffee table, you provide an instant touch point for bare feet, elevating the comfort quotient of your living space,’ says Artem Kropovinsky.

‘However, in spaces prone to heavy traffic or where kids frequently play, such a rug might become an obstacle or quickly get worn out,’ he adds. ‘Choose durability over aesthetics in such cases.’

Christina Kim favors wool. ‘I recommend wool in a living room: it’s comfortable, stays good looking for longer, and naturally resists staining,’ she says. ‘Wool needs care but is worth it.’

Other natural fibers can make good choices, though. ‘Consider rugs made of jute, sisal, or seagrass for a textured and earthy appeal,’ says Artem.

When not to put a rug under a coffee table

There are both practical and aesthetic advantages to putting a rug under a coffee table, but it’s not invariably the right choice to make. ‘In smaller living rooms, a large rug may overwhelm the space,’ says Cristiana Crin. ‘In such cases, consider a smaller rug or none at all.’

Equally, she points out, if it would be in a high traffic area prone to spills and stains, while you can choose a rug with good durability, going rug-free is also an option. 

FAQs

A rug below a coffee table can be a vital element in a living room color scheme and combine with living room lighting ideas to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It’s important the rug design complements living room furniture to avoid a style clash. Take time to style the coffee table itself, too, as a finishing touch to the interior design.

If we haven't made it clear, we are absolutely obsessed with Jenna Lyons' style. The Real Housewife of New York, former J. Crew creative director, LGBTQ+ icon, and general cool girl has a taste that's all her own. Jenna's style seamlessly mixes different eras, finishes, and materials to create interiors that look both glamorous and effortless. 

Recently, the fashion mogul turned reality star shared a photo of her beach house and it's oh-so stylish. Interior designers love the way Jenna has put her own spin on traditional coastal decor ideas.

The photo pictures Jenna seated on a white sofa with white throw pillows, perched atop a striped linen blanket. In front of her, a natural coral stone coffee table is covered with beachy artifacts. Visible items include shells, bits of coral, mermaids' purses, and matte candlesticks with tall black candles. The artfully decorated coffee table is the perfect coastal living room idea.

Designers love the tranquility of this design style. Interior designer Kate Marker says, 'Being near a coast or body of water is relaxing and soothing, informing a laid back aesthetic. The coastal look incorporates colors and fabrics and patterns that conjure up seaside vacations - blues and whites, fresh stripes, chunky textures, woven neutrals, crisp linens.' Jenna's coffee table styling idea certainly captures this laid-back energy.

Meggan Fadden Wynja, Interior Designer and Design Director of Color Cordstates: 'The coastal grandmother aesthetic is always on trend. It’s simple, comfortable, and effortless, but also fluid, so it can evolve with you and your tastes and personality over time while retaining its classic appeal.'

'The use of soft neutral colors like white, beige, and shades of blue and green creates a feeling of cleanliness and relaxation. Textured furniture, neutral or subdued earth-tone light fixtures, and bright lighting break up the blocks of solid color to please the eyes. The versatility of this beachy, relaxed style makes it easy to achieve and fun to customize.'

Kate Marker adds, 'The organic nature of the materials and the classic patterns make the style defy trends and have true staying power over generations.'

Considering this trend is slated to remain in style for the next 100 years, we might as well take Jenna Lyons up on her superb coffee table decor ideas.

If you love a good old fashioned fire to cozy up your space, then you'll need some log store ideas to keep your fuel in order. Luckily, there are plenty of designs available that aren't just practical but look fantastic too.

Perhaps our fire pit ideas have got you inspired for one of your own. Or, maybe you already had one, or a fireplace or chiminea. Either way, keeping your logs in top condition will ensure you get a good burn that doesn't plume with smoke. That means they need to be protected from the elements and neatly stacked, rather than piled up in a heap on the ground. Of course, the former looks much better too and won't take up as much space. Plus, it's way more convenient when you need to grab a couple more logs or a piece or two of kindling.

From multi-purpose designs and clever built-in looks to small space solutions, there are all kinds of sizes and styles of log stores to choose from. We've rounded up some of our favorite ideas to help get you inspired for your own garden.

9 stylish log store ideas for your backyard

Ready to give your firewood a stylish new home? There's bound to be a look you love from this mix.

1. Make organization easy

Wood-fuelled outdoor heating ideas generally need kindling as well as logs to get a good glow going. So, when it comes to choosing your log store, picking a design that has separate sections for the two is a wise move. This will make it a breeze to grab whatever you need quickly next time you go to light a fire, plus it will look super smart too.

2. Set an architectural tone

Pick a log store that offers timeless charm, such as metallic structures with eye-catching architectural features, like this one available at Wayfair, or this hexagonal rust design from Target.

Opting for a bold black or charcoal hue is a great way to make an on-trend statement for a modern garden. But, if it's not quite right for your style, you could choose a softer shade such as dusky rose or woodland green instead.

3. Keep your fuel close to your fireplace with a built-in design

An outdoor fireplace makes a stunning feature and is the ideal centerpoint for an entertaining zone. 

'If you have a built-in fireplace or outdoor kitchen, you can create cutouts or alcoves out of stone, concrete, metal or even wood that blend nicely with your existing decor,' says Leroy Hite, founder of Cutting Edge Firewood in Atlanta. 'The alcoves can create a beautiful focal point while providing storage. Another attractive option is to use on open-sided wrought iron rack. They come in multiple shapes and sizes – large rectangular racks or smaller round racks - depending on your firewood needs. Stack your wood neatly and then the racks can also provide a great focal point.'

There are lots of styles to choose from – from rustic to modern. But whatever look you go for, having built-in storage sections for logs will always be convenient as it means you won't need to leave the space when the fire needs a top-up.

Don't forget about the aesthetic value of neatly-stacked logs, too. They can make a beautifully textural contrast against sleeker materials, so there's every reason to show them off.

You can find lots more lovely outdoor fireplace ideas in our guide.

4. Create a statement wall

If you've got lots of logs to store, you could try using them for an eye-catching garden wall idea. 

A sturdy timber structure, divided into sections, will provide the perfect divider between zones once filled up with firewood. Plus, the textural display will offer plenty of visual interest. Alternatively, position it along an existing boundary to hide a lacklustre fence or wall.

5. Save on space by storing logs beneath a bench

Logs are bulky things, and if you only have a small space to play with, this can be problematic. The trick is to think creatively about how to incorporate them into existing features, so that they don't take up any extra room.

Consider storing them neatly underneath a small table or bench. For extra style points, add brightly-colored cushions, or go for textural neutrals for a pared-down yet elegant scene.

Need somewhere to store other outdoor bits and bobs, too? There are plenty more garden storage ideas in our feature.

6. Pick a narrow style for smaller gardens

If you're looking for alternative log store ideas that will work in a small garden, then thinking vertically is a practical approach.

A slimline design like this metal one from Wayfair won't take up much floor space, making it easy to slot into even the tiniest of courtyards. And the open sides aren't just for visual appeal – they will help keep the logs ventilated.

7. Look for fire pits with space for storage

There are lots of fabulous fire pit designs to choose from – in fact we've placed some of our top picks in our best fire pit buying guide. However, for smaller gardens, picking a design that incorporates log storage is a sensible choice.

Keeping the fire and the fuel together is super convenient. Plus, as you won't need to bring any other log store ideas into the mix, you can save on space elsewhere.

No matter the wood type, you want to keep it dry and clean, so make sure your storage is off the ground,' says Leroy Hite. 'If it is a premium wood that has been dried in a kiln or oven, you can keep it fully covered. If it is from your yard or a local provider, you want to keep it partially covered to allow air flow so it can continue to dry. Moist wood can grow mold, fungus and also rot through.'

8. Give your coffee table a second use

We've talked about seating that doubles up as log storage, but how about a coffee table? 

This idea keeps logs neatly tucked away whilst offering a striking focal point to a patio. Attaching wheels beneath will boost the versatility of the piece even more, as will allow it to be moved to one side easily if and when needed.

If you have a few DIY skills up your sleeve, you could have a go at making your own design with pallets.

9. Pair a log store with a shed

A shed is a classic garden storage solution for keeping all your tools, pots and bags of compost safe, dry, and tidy. Of course they're not just for storage though, sheds can be decked out and used however you wish – whether that's as a luxurious she shed, an outdoor bar, or a hobby room for painting or knitting.

Whatever you use it for, picking one that has a built-in log store to one side saves you shopping for a separate design. Plus, it will provide ample space for your fuel – ideal if you have a fireplace or wood burner indoors as well as out.

You can find lots more shed ideas in our feature.

FAQs

Of course, you'll want the appearance of your log store to complement your personal garden design. Hopefully, these log store ideas have proven there are plenty of stylish options to choose from.

One of my favorite things to do after a long day is curl up on my couch for a few quiet minutes with my Kindle and kombucha. 

Having a cluttered space is a quick way to ruin the moment, so I’ve discovered some rules that help keep a living room clutter-free and allow me to do a quick pick-up when needed.  

With these five golden rules for a clutter-free living room, you’ll be ready to relax in a snap!

Golden rules for a clutter-free living room

Perhaps you'd like to declutter your living room before fall for a seasonal refresh, or you're just looking for some general decluttering tips to inspire some action. Either way, I've got you covered.

1. Use closed storage as much as possible

This is a golden rule for keeping a clutter-free space in most rooms of the house, and it certainly applies in the living room. Think of all the items that tend to collect in your living room. It could be anything from TV remotes and pet toys to kids’ knickknacks and books, and if all of those things are on a surface, the space will look cluttered quickly.

Use furniture that provides you with some living room storage solutions: end tables with drawers, baskets with lids, at Anthropologie, and closed cabinets to store as much as possible.

2. Design your space based on how it is used

How do you use your living room? Do you have big, family movie nights when you need plenty of seating and surfaces for snacks? Do you need a cozy reading nook or a place to play games? Creating a living room based on how you use the space will naturally have much less clutter than a living space designed for someone else’s interests.

If you keep a few books and magazines going, you’ll want furniture (ideally near where you sit) to store those things. If your best couch is amazingly comfortable, don’t feel you have to load it down with pillows that will inevitably end up on the floor. (More on that soon!)

We love to play card and board games, so we have a cabinet in our living room for games. When they are convenient, we are more likely to play them and put them away when we are done.

Rather than fighting the natural flow of 'stuff,' create a home or designated drawer or cabinet shelf for the items that naturally accumulate in the living room.

3. Ensure decor doesn’t translate as visual clutter

If you have a habit of buying the latest decor at Target and Home Goods, then this rule is for you. Make sure there isn’t so much decor in your living room that it looks more like clutter than beautiful, stylish objects. There is a fine line between home decor being beautiful and home decor translating as clutter, so evaluate your space regularly to ensure your room stays beautiful.

A space looks cluttered when there are too many individual items for our eyes to process easily. That is why designers group like items and collections together, often on a decorative tray, available at Anthropologie. Those individual items become one unit for a more cohesive and less cluttered look.

Keep decor items sparse if you tend to have many things on surfaces, such as books and magazines you are reading, beverage glasses, multiple remote controls, etc.

4. Keep floors clear

This can be tough if you have kids and pets, but I promise it’s worth it. Items on the floor make even a tidy space look cluttered. We’ve outgrown kids’ toys on the floor in our house, but we used to keep a large basket in the living room so that we could do quick pick-up when the clutter became too much. We now have a small basket for pet toys…if only our dogs would put them away!

Throw pillows and blankets often end up on the floor, so consider having fewer of them or a place to put them when you don’t need them.

Finally, evaluate your furniture and what’s necessary. I’m not telling you to get rid of things you use, but it can be easy to accumulate trendy poufs, side chairs, and floor pillows without needing them.

5. Hide cables and electronic equipment

Visible cables and electronic equipment can clutter a living room in an instant. If your TV is on the wall, consider hiring an electrician to run the wires through the wall. It’s often not as complicated as it sounds. Many cable management products are available on Amazon for cables that aren’t easily hidden.

Electronic equipment can also be an eyesore and affect a clean, clutter-free space. With IR remotes and devices that work through doors and walls, you can put devices in a cabinet or closet and still use the remote from the couch.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with how you hide things! We had surround sound in a house with a large subwoofer on the floor in the living space. I bought a beautiful floor basket, drilled a hole in the side, and put the subwoofer in it! The basket was perfect in the space, and no one realized a subwoofer was inside.

I’m sure it affected the sound quality, but not enough that we could tell. If clutter prevents you from relaxing, as it does me, these five golden rules will get you closer to relaxing and recharging in your living room.

As the center of your living room, your coffee table often is used to store items that you might decide to come back to later, but this is a surefire way to create a living room space that appears cluttered and disorganized. 

Before you style your coffee table with your favorite coffee table decor, it's important to know which items to avoid keeping out on your coffee table in order to maintain an aesthetic display.

Ideally, coffee tables should be kept well organized, with a purposeful and well-balanced display. To achieve this, there are certain items that you should never allow to remain on your coffee table.

Items never to store on a coffee table

Melissa Gugni, owner of Melissa Gugni Organizing says, 'I say you should never "store" anything on a coffee table! I like to choose intentional items that have meaning on a coffee table.

'The more my coffee table pleases my eye, the more likely I am to not let stray cups, mail and other junk linger there.' This means you should make sure to avoid cluttering your coffee table with items that do not enhance the aesthetics and atmosphere of relaxation that your living room should exude. 

1. Too small/large decorative items

Curating a balanced coffee table is all about finding well-proportioned items that don't look underwhelming or overwhelming on your coffee table. Items displayed on your coffee table that are too small, such as petite tea lights on a larger table, can look out of place, whereas items that are too large will leave little room for any negative space.

If you are styling your coffee table for fall, it's likely that you're planning to display a vase with fall foliage, but be sure that both the decorative vase and plants you're using are in an appropriate ratio that suits the size of your coffee table and the other items you wish to fit on the display.

2. Mail

It's easy to absent-mindedly leave mail on your coffee table or to think that having it in such a visible spot will force you to get around to sorting through it, but this is almost as bad as leaving trash lying around on your coffee table.

Although your coffee table can be used to keep certain items, these should be decorative and contribute to the overall atmosphere of your living room, which your mail undoubtedly will not do.

Try to give yourself a rule where every time you get up from the couch you need to tidy away your mail or any stray items to avoid leaving it there to pile up. 

'If you are a person who is affected by visual clutter, I recommend a nightly "reset" of the coffee table (and countertops) as a good habit. It is a wonderful thing to wake up to a tidy surface,' advises Melissa Gugni. This is key to keeping this area that is meant for relaxation stress-free. If mail is often left out on the coffee table, consider finding ways to better organize mail so the bills and letters are less likely to pile up.

3. Remote controls

Although it may be tempting to keep your remote controls on your coffee table, since it is practically the most convenient place to keep them and prevents them from getting lost in the abyss that is your couch cushions, they are an unattractive item that will make your coffee table look disorganized, especially if you have more than one remote control.

If you have nowhere else to store your remote controls, opt for stylish options that will keep them organized and contained to one space, such as this Poeland remote control holder from Amazon, ensuring they don't ruin your coffee table display.

4. Random books and magazines

For many, living rooms are the perfect place to curl up with their favorite book or magazine, making coffee tables the default place to store books and magazines, but this should only be done with those that enhance your coffee table display.

Decorating with books and magazines can bring character to your coffee table and is one of the latest coffee table display trends that designers love, but you should be very selective about what makes the cut. This may mean the book or magazine you're actually reading is not the one that you use to adorn your coffee table. 

When decorating your coffee table with books, make sure to stack smaller books on top of larger ones and find those that have muted designs that match your color scheme.

Unsurprisingly, my favorite magazines to display on my coffee table are a few choice Homes & Gardens ones. 

If you want to display your books but their covers don't pass the aesthetics check, you can find book covers to decorate your books with, such as these PerKoop Book Covers from Amazon. Alternatively, often when you peel off the plastic cover of hardbacks you'll find something more textural.

5. Everyday items

Items that are used on a regular basis, such as office supplies, makeup, cleaning products, glasses, kids' toys, laptops, and earphones, should not be stored on your coffee table. 

'While toys are a part of homes with little ones, they can throw off the serene vibe you're trying to set. Seek out chic ways to stash them and keep toys organized,' recommends Artem Kropovinsky, founder of Arsight.

Your coffee table should only be used for a balance of decorative, functional items that stylish display. By keeping your coffee table clear of everyday items, you will prevent your living room from becoming a makeshift office, primping space, or playroom.

Adopt the 'a place for everything it is place' mindset to help you avoid adding clutter to your coffee table. 

'Briefly placing cleaning items on your table might give off an "always cleaning" vibe, which isn't ideal,' adds Artem Kropovinsky.

6. Valuable items

As the center of all living room traffic and a place that is sometimes used as a footrest, it's a safe idea to avoid putting your most valued and delicate items on your coffee table. This doesn't mean you shouldn't display your favorite candle holders and vases on your coffee table, but keep in mind the potential risks of keeping something you feel you could never risk losing on your coffee table. 

7. Coffee mugs

Despite what the name might suggest, a coffee table should not be used to keep coffee mugs, except when they are currently in use. 

Again, your coffee table shouldn't be an area of your home where you allow yourself to leave items such as glasses and mugs on until you do a big cleanup at the end of the week. You should only allow the dedicated decorations to remain on your coffee table for longer than a day.

FAQs

Remember, a coffee table with minimalist decor will be a more elegant display and will ensure that you don't let it become cluttered with random items that don't add to your living room, but rather create a clustered look.

Celebrity interior designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard has shared his design expertise regarding how to style a coffee table in the home. Known for his eclectic approach to interior design, it's no surprise that his coffee table styling ideas follow suit.

In the video, which Bullard shared via his Instagram, the acclaimed designer makes it clear that he believes styling a coffee table should be deeply personal; layered with items that have meaning to you.

We take a closer look and break down Bullard's five top tips for you to replicate the look in your own home, perfect for styling a coffee table for fall. 

1. Add personality with books

The first step in styling a coffee table, according to Bullard, is adding books. Tapping into this popular coffee table display trend, books don't only look stylish, but they're a great way to reflect your own interests, as Bullard explains: 

'Not only because I love books, but also because they add height to the table. They kind of give a little window into your personality, but they also give a lot of interest to the space.' 

2. Showcase meaningful objects

The second element to consider when styling a coffee table is adding personal and sentimental decorative objects. In the video, Bullard shows a plate he purchased on a trip, which he explains is a great way to create a layered look whilst also reflecting memories. 

3. Create ambiance with candles

Candles are an essential part of styling a coffee table, according to Bullard. His preference is a candelabra, which he praises for its ability to not only add extra height to the table but for the flattering glow it gives the room. 

In addition, he goes on to explain: 'Never forget a fragrance candle, again, to give your own flavor into the room.' 

4. Layer with boxes

'Boxes too are always wonderful. I collect boxes from everywhere,' he says. Not only do boxes act as a further decorative feature on the table, but they're also excellent for storing away smaller items that may otherwise clutter the space. 

5. Finish with flowers

Bullard's final step in styling a coffee table is adding flowers: 'So really and truly, it's all about personal objects. But the thing that crowns it, that gives it that sort of wonderful natural flavor, are flowers.'

Displayed in Bullard's home are pink garden roses that he explains bring a pop of color to the room as well as an element of freshness. Take reference from the designer and opt for flowers in a different color to the room's main palette to add further interest to the space. 

Style your coffee table with these items

Whether you're looking to start styling your coffee table from scratch, or rather looking to make some fall-inspired additions in anticipation of the changing seasons, we've rounded up some of our favorite coffee table accessories for you to shop below. 

Whatever design style you lean towards, make sure you follow Bullard's final piece of advice: '...when designing a coffee table, just go for it. Design with abandon.'

If you're looking for more inspiration, take a look at further coffee table decor ideas we've rounded up, or, if you're looking to try something new, we've got lots of ideas on coffee table alternatives for the home. 

Over the years, I have gathered many really clever techniques from interior designers for styling a sofa so that it’s the focal point of a living space. 

Some are simple and easy to switch up when you want to give your living room a fresh look quickly; others are more involved.

All are well worth the effort.

1. Complement your sofa with your colour scheme

It’s likely that you will choose your sofa to complement your existing colour scheme, but whether your sofa is in a safe, goes-with-everything neutral or a bold new shade, it’s worthwhile taking note of not just the overt colour of the fabric, but the undertones, too. 

Both can be highlighted in different ways and in different proportions around the room, whether in throw cushions on the sofa or in a vase on the mantelpiece opposite - and this will work to tie the sofa to the rest of your space for a cohesive look. 

You can see how this works in the beautiful Carmel sofa from sofa.com (above). There’s both the deep blue and the more powdery tones in the fabric, which can be picked out in your colour scheme.

2. Create impact with the wall colour

If you are looking to introduce a new colour to your living room, to create a more dramatic impact with your decorating, and to showcase your new sofa, the easiest way to do so is to redecorate the wall behind the sofa. 

There are so many ways to do this, but the most obvious is with contrast: a neutral sofa - perhaps one in dark grey like mine – can really sing against a bolder, warmer background. Or, you can look at complementary schemes: for example, hanging a wallpaper with an accent colour in the motif that’s exactly the same colour as the sofa fabric. For maximum impact, colour drenching is a great tool: simply paint the wall behind the sofa the exact same shade as its fabric. 

This is impactful with both colourful and neutral colours – you can see how rich it looks with the handsome Holly sofa in Cashew Baylee viscose linen, above. The effect is heightened by the adjustment of tone in both the Holly armchair in Oyster luxe boucle and Luna half moon footstool in Champagne luxe boucle shown alongside it.

3. Choose cushions and throws in accent shades

Most successful colour schemes rely on one main colour, then two to three accent colours, all in varying tones for subtle but effective layering. If you have yet to invest in cushions or throws, these present an opportunity to bring colour layering to your scheme. 

For best effect, give the room’s primary accent colour more presence than the secondary or tertiary ones in your cushion choices, and introduce the sofa fabric colour into at least one of them, if only in a pattern detail. An added tip? Three to five cushions are better than two to four or six – odd numbers always look better. 

Here, the Bluebell sofa in a lovely Taupe colourway has neutral and blue cushions in the same muted tones, while the orange cushion adds a contrasting boldness that still works perfectly with the upholstery.

4. Consider contrasting textures and patterns

Just as cushions and throws can introduce accent colours, they can also bring new patterns and textures into the space. A combination of patterns is always more successful if it’s cleverly varied: look to include, in a trio of cushions for example, a large scale print, a small scale print, and a plain, perhaps with a contrasting piping. 

You can further the effect with your throw, or look to introduce texture here, perhaps in the form of a chunky knit, a soft cashmere or a cosy velvet.

I have the three-seater version of this Iggy sofa from sofa.com one but in dark grey. However, I love love love the bravery of this deep orange/red upholstery fabric - plus the simple addition of a graphic cushion, which coordinates beautifully with the artwork.

5. Arrange cushions artfully

There are so many ways to arrange cushions, whether sat on their corners for a relaxed look to stacked and sat up on their flat edges for a formal feel. Choosing cushions of different sizes and shapes can also change how your sofa presents. 

For example, a large cushion with a smaller rectangular one in front, repeated at either end of a two seater, or as a trio on a three seater, will give a balanced look that’s incredibly smart.

6. Drape throws purposefully

Throws aren’t just for comfort – you can drape them decoratively to add more colour, pattern and texture to your space – and to draw attention to your sofa. 

I have a beautiful antique Turkish throw that drapes across the back of a sofa that sits across the width of an open-plan room. It can be admired from both sides of the room and has the same spice shades of the rug beneath the sofa, so there’s a lovely connection between the three elements. And on the arm of the same sofa, I have a beautiful, plain cashmere throw in the same colour as the velvet of the sofa. The pairing is subtle but feels luxurious.

Simpler still, a throw and cushions that are the perfect match for your sofa, as shown on this gorgeous deep toffee-coloured high-backed sofa, will give a boutique hotel look that’s pure luxury. 

7. Ensure your sofa-rug ratio is correct

For me, area rugs are a must-have in a living room and they should be chosen with the sofa at the forefront of your mind. Ideally, a sofa’s front feet - and those of any armchairs - will sit on the rug. This gives both a sense of connection and - from a practical point of view - means the rug doesn’t move about. It’s important the rug is wide enough - at least a half foot wider at either end than the sofa. 

This might not always work if you have a sectional, as shown with the Long Island Slim sofa above – however, simply ensuring the rug sits beneath the footstool will create the desired effect.

The rug’s colour scheme doesn’t need to be repeated in the sofa fabric, but if not, it should be introduced in the cushions or throw. 

8. Frame the sofa with artwork

Just as a rug frames a sofa at floor level, artwork should be used above it to frame and draw attention. Whether you choose a single large picture, a row of smaller prints, or a gallery wall of artwork, it should ideally be half a foot shorter than the sofa’s width, though this will depend, to a degree, on the size and shape of the wall space - a very tall ceiling might call for artwork that’s narrower but taller, for example.

Either way, the artwork needs to be hung so that its bottom edge is nearer to the sofa than the top edge is to the ceiling. This will ensure the connection is between the artwork and sofa, not between the artwork and ceiling, which just doesn’t work. If the picture you love to hang is much smaller than the sofa, you can still achieve this connection with clever picture framing, or wall panels that finish just above the back of the sofa.

9. Maximise your sofa’s presence with side tables

Just as a bed is always accompanied by bedside tables, a sofa should always be bookended by side tables. Not only are they a practical addition, they also allow for low level lighting that throws flattering hues over your sofa at night, inviting you to sit down - as if you needed the enticement. 

If the side tables will be used for placing drinks on to, the surfaces need to be around the same level as the height of your sofa’s arms. However, choose table lamps carefully – you do not want them at a height or with a shade design that means exposed bulb light will shine into your eyes when you’re sitting down.

When choosing side tables, consider one that’s a contrasting shape to your sofa’s silhouette. For example, if you have a curvaceous sofa, an angular pair of tables will add pleasing contrast – and vice versa.

10. Extend your sofa into the room’s centre with a footstool - or coffee table

Placing a footstool or coffee table in front of your sofa is another way to draw attention to it. Either can be used to introduce more texture, complementary colours and materials to the room. However, be careful not to choose materials that clash. 

For example, a footstool’s upholstery might contrast with your sofa’s for added interest but if this is the case, its show feet should complement those of the sofa. Similarly, the wood of a coffee table would ideally complement any wood elements of the sofa.  

The surfaces of both can be used to further highlight the colour of the sofa or the accent colours in the cushions – with a complementary throw draped over a footstool, for example, or a selection of pretty trinkets in just the right colours on a coffee table.

To find your dream sofa, go to sofa.com to see the full range of styles, sizes and colours available, as well as their extensive range of home accessories to complete your look. 

A coffee table is a bit like the kitchen island, it's seen as the center of the room, the piece in which all other furniture sits around. It's an essential right? But what if you don't have the space for one, or it simply doesn't work with the layout you want to create for your living room. Well fear not, there are plenty of alternatives that can replace the coffee table in your space.

I know all too well the struggle with not being able to make a coffee table work in your living room. While in the title of this piece, I have already mentioned that my living room is small, that's not the only issue holding me back from adding in a coffee table. Because the room also has to double as a dining room, and it's semi-open plan with the kitchen too, so it's not really the dimensions holding me back, but more the effect that adding a bulky piece of furniture to the center of my open plan space would do for flow, both physically and visually.

So what are my options? What coffee table alternatives can I try? An ottoman? A small pouffe? Perhaps a vintage piece can be repurposed? I have ordered many a coffee table in the hopes of making it work and they are always returned, so I am hoping, with the help of interior designers to find something for my living room that will work and hopefully, there will be an option that works for your space here too.

The best coffee table alternatives

From beautiful vintage trunks to sleek side tables and oversized ottomans, there are so many fun and creative options to consider for coffee table alternatives for the home, so let us guide you through our top picks.

1. Opt for a versatile ottoman

An ottoman can be an incredibly versatile piece of furniture, and it is often the most popular coffee table alternative to embrace in the home. Serving as a footrest, additional seating, and providing a perfect platform to rest down books, drinks and decorative accessories and ornaments, there are many ottoman ideas you can consider for a coffee table alternative.

'Ottomans are a beautiful and functional alternative to a coffee table, offering unmatched versatility,' says designer Marie Flanigan. 'They can be effortlessly moved around, doubling as extra seating when needed and creating a more dynamic space. Their ability to introduce new textures or accent colors adds depth and interest to a room’s design. Perfect for both large and small spaces, ottomans are available in a variety of sizes and can even be customized to fit your unique style.'

I am drawn to this alternative because ottomans often have a lower profile than coffee tables so it won't visually interrupt the space as much as a coffee table would. And there's something about this being a softer option too, the clean lines and hard material of a traditional coffee table contrast the couch and rug making in an even more dominant piece, whereas an ottoman blends far more seamlessly.

'In more casual rooms like dens, I actually prefer a sturdy ottoman to a coffee table so that people can both relax and put up their feet and put down a book or a drink on a small tray,' suggested designer Bethany Adams. 'Small children are bound to clamber on top of whatever piece of furniture is between them and the television, so I find a good, durable upholstery in a dark color (for the inevitable spills), as long as it is firm and not too soft really works well.'

2. Don't just go small with your coffee table alternative

And if like me you have a small space to make an ottoman work in, don't automatically think small. That was something I quickly realized when trying to add a coffee table to my living room. I kept ordering small designs I thought were right for my small living room but love the look of this oversized, square ottoman design in this living room, designed by Jessica Bennett of Alice Lane Interior Design. It fills the space nicely, rather than awkwardly floating in a sea of floor.

Jessica explains that in this living room, 'We blended warm and cool tones with cozy textures to create an inviting space for the family to entertain and hang out. It can easily seat a large group comfortably for all the parties they host.'

3. Use a vintage trunk

Using an unexpected piece of furniture as a coffee table is something I have experimented with – some alternatives were successful, some less so. But a vintage trunk sounds like a piece that's both aesthetically pleasing and practical too. I think I have made the mistake in the best of going for pieces that are form over function – something that's easy to do when decorating with vintage pieces.

There's plenty of trunk designs to choose from whether you pick one up at a thrift store or an online marketplace, so you can go with a size and style that best suits your space.

Designer Emily Henderson agrees a vintage trunk could make for a great coffee table alternative. She explains, 'I have always been a big fan of real vintage trunks for a coffee or even a side table. They're more unique and can act as storage too which is great when you're tight on space. Otherwise, a bench is a great alt to a traditional coffee table. They're slender, perfect for a tight living room, and they still provide a nice hard surface to place things on.'

Kathy Kuo agrees, "I love the idea of using a statement-making trunk as a coffee table. Trunks often make a really distinctive visual statement, and they have the added bonus of offering additional storage space within. Try an antiqued trunk for a rustic or farmhouse look, or a wicker one coastal beach motif."

4. Add more pattern and interest than a coffee table

While there are some beautiful coffee table designs out there, you don't get the opportunity to add a load of color and pattern as you do with an alternative like an ottoman. Going for an upholstered piece to be a focal point of your living room means you can get really creative with adding in prints and patterns – even if you love a neutral living room, a statement ottoman in a really stunning print is only going to elevate the space (for more so that a standard coffee table).

This living room designed by SPACES by Hollie Velten makes the perfect case for choosing an upholstered ottoman as a coffee table alternative. As the studio's founder, Hollie Velten, explains, 'Our firm favors custom oversized ottomans to replace coffee tables for their expressive opportunity to use print, pattern, and color and to offer a modular, flexible soft-landing for both people and things!'

5. Switch a coffee table for something more creative

A coffee table alternative needn't be all about furniture, stacks of books with a tray or even just a coaster to perch your coffee can be all your space needs – plus this approach will add so much character to a space. I have actually created a bedside table with stacks of books before and got plenty of compliments on it and the surface is surprisingly sturdy if you use hardbacks.

'Decor can be anything you want it to be, so you can take risks in unconventional items you choose to use throughout your home to make it your own work of art,' says designer Jennifer Walters. 'For things like side tables and coffee tables, you might opt for stacks of books or magazines as small tables in lieu of something larger.'

'Of course, poufs and upholstered ottomans of all sizes are great options to serve as both table and footstool,' Jennifer adds. 'They are also easily moved to other areas when space is needed. In my own home, I swapped a smaller glass table with one very large white oak two-level table that serves as an accessory centerpiece, a small meal table, and of course a place to rest one's feet if needed.'

6. Use a side table instead of a coffee table

This is a great coffee table alternative if you are tackling a small space and just after a small surface to pop down a drink and add a little decor. Switching a side table for a coffee table gives you the flexibility to move it around, and it feels less visually bulky and doesn't break up the space as much as a full-sized coffee table.

'In lieu of coffee tables, we love using side tables in front of sofas in more compact spaces like this office that also serves as a guest bedroom with the help of a sleeper sofa,' explains designer Melanie Love of Love and Interiors.

7. Incorporate a pouf (or two)

Very similar to an ottoman, a petite pouf is a good coffee table alternative if you are after flexibility. Unlike a larger ottoman, a pouf can easily be moved around the space where it's needed and tucked out of the way when it's not in use.

'Poufs and ottomans make for great alternatives to the traditional coffee table, and are often more functional, offering a few different uses,' says Patricia Gibbons from the design team at sofa.com. 'Providing a place to rest books and trinkets, and an extra spot to sit if need be, many come with multifunctional storage options, so they can also be used to tidy away clutter. They are easy to move around and are versatile without compromising on style.'

As shown in this living room, designed by Marie Flanigan, you could double up and go for two poufs for even more flexibility. Personally, I like this idea better than a single pouf if you are planning to have your coffee table alternative sit in the center of the room. There's something about a tiny pouf in the middle of a living room that looks awkward to me. If you do want just one, place it closer to the sofa so it feels more like part of the space.

8. Cluster together tables for flexibility

Instead of choosing one large coffee table for your space, a cluster of smaller tables can be a more flexible alternative – and they can look beautiful, too.

Whether you choose a matching nest of tables, or mix and match through different styles and shapes, a cluster of tables can be a highly adaptable and more unique coffee table alternative – and they still provide the perfect place to embrace coffee table styling ideas.

Sometimes a coffee table just isn't right for your space. Whether that be because of the size or shape of the room, or the aesthetic you are going for. There are plenty of coffee table alternatives to try that will work in your space, providing the perfect amount of surface space to perch your drinks and adding character, as well as practicality to a room.

Forget received wisdom that you shouldn't have a coffee table because it makes a living room look smaller – that's not always, nor necessarily, the case. And anyway, what if you really need one for the space to be functional or to feel balanced? 

A coffee table is central to your living room furniture ideas, but its impact on your space is important and real. Clearly, a coffee table won't necessarily to make a room look bigger since it takes up visible floor space. However, choose the right one and its presence can only be a positive.

Either way, we're working on the basis that most of you will want to make your room look bigger, though a lucky few may be reversing our advice to make it look smaller.

So, we asked design experts: does a coffee table make a room look bigger or smaller – and how can we get our choice spot on? The key, unsurprisingly, is to choose one that's the right size, shape and material.

The right-size coffee table is everything

It may not seem important, but the effect a coffee table has on the perceived size of the room will affect how you feel about the space, how you use it, and of course how the room looks. The relative size of the coffee table in your scheme is crucial when deciding how to design your living room. 

New Jersey-based Interior designer Jennifer Muirhead agrees, 'It's all about the scale of the room and the furniture already in place. A coffee table should be large enough that everyone seated around it can reach it comfortably, without having to stand up and walk over to it. That is what makes a room look "wrong." Conversely, no one should be bumping knees against it either. A too-large coffee table will make a space feel cluttered and small.'

Take the time to consider your options carefully and you'll be more than halfway to creating a harmonious and relaxing living room for all to enjoy. And if you need a little help working out how best to match a coffee table to your living room layout ideas, here are some starting points to keep you on track. More on that next.

The 'magic' coffee table formula

We're often asked the question: 'how wide should a coffee table be?' But it's not the width of the coffee table that's important. If you're looking to create a comfortable, relaxing living room, the key measurement to bear in mind is the distance from your sofa or chair to the coffee table. 

Designer Stephanie Brown says; 'Our rule of thumb is minimum 18 inches from seating to the table edge.'

And 18 is the magic number for Heather Hilliard, too, who develops the formula, saying, 'A maximum of 18 inches is the correct distance to set a coffee table from the edge of the furniture that it serves, for both its long and short ends.  Working backward from where your large furniture pieces need to be situated in your space will give you the perfect size for your coffee table and space. Less than 18 inch spacing narrows circulation and greater than 18 inches makes it a stretch to set down a drink or rest one’s feet – and makes the space feel smaller and more cramped.'

A large coffee table can make a room look bigger

It sounds counter-intuitive, but the best coffee table to make a small living room look bigger might actually be the largest one you can comfortably fit in the space. In choosing a large coffee table, you're making a confident statement about the generous proportions of your room and thus adding to the illusion of more space. 

Interior designer Eleanor Cummings, whose company designed and furnished the room pictured above, says, 'On certain floor plans, a large coffee table can make a room look bigger. Any large coffee table, whether concrete, wood, glass or Lucite; can make a room appear larger. Clear materials allow for more translucency, making the room feel more spacious.'

Be warned though: going large with your coffee table to make the room look bigger doesn't always work if you make some classic small living room layout mistakes, says Vancouver-based interior designer Stephanie Brown, 'A large square table can help a room look expansive, but if it’s too close to the chairs and sofa it can do the opposite and look oversized for the space.' 

Having sufficient circulation space in your living room is crucial. If opting for a large coffee table means there won't be enough space to cross the room then it's time to think again. It's all about getting the balance right. 

San Francisco interior designer, Caitlin Flemming agrees: 'You always want to be sure you have plenty of room between the coffee table and the sofa and chairs in the room. Otherwise, it will not only make the room look small, but will also make it feel small.' 

Want your room to feel smaller? Cut down on circulation space – though we'd never advise this.

A glass coffee table makes a room look larger

Coffee tables make a room look bigger if you opt for designs in certain materials. For instance, a glass coffee table fades into the background allowing other pieces, such as a rug beneath, or the sofas either side, to take the limelight. 

Stephanie Brown believes that coffee tables in other materials can share the same spacious quality of glass: 'Glass, light wood, and light textiles are all helpful in creating an airy space that feels more open and spacious. The eye moves past them and continues around the room. Dark wood or dark textile tables do the opposite and stop the eye. Which can be great if seeking a pop of color or trying to make a central focal point.' 

Heather Hilliard, the San Francisco-based principal of Heather Hilliard Design, agrees, but adds a note of caution: 'A glass coffee table will add lightness and airiness to the space, but it isn’t suitable for bearing a lot of weight, resting feet, or being bumped into by little ones.'

Want your room to feel smaller? Darker, denser materials will do this efficiently.

A round coffee table makes a room look bigger

What about a coffee table's shape? Does a round table take up more space? 

No, on the contrary, round tables take up less space, says Stephanie Brown, who came up with the space-saving idea of layering two round coffee tables, one pale wood, one a dark, textured ottoman, for the room above. 

'Round coffee tables can help give the illusion of more space, as can glass coffee tables,' says Brown. 'A group of smaller tables will provide some breathing space where otherwise the space would have been filled with a solid larger table. Imagine a square table with its corners clipped off… a round table is a great way to gain more space in a room.'

On the question of coffee table shape, Caitlin Flemming disagrees: 'A rectangular coffee table works best. Round tables can take up too much space, although in some cases, with a curved sofa, they work well.'

Whatever the shape, if you're wondering if coffee tables should be lower than a sofa, the answer is 'yes, if you want it to the room to feel larger. Taller coffee tables will make the space feel smaller, and will be awkward looking, too.

FAQs

A New Year allows for a new outlook – and that often includes a rethink of our homes. As the Christmas decorations come down, it is the perfect time to consider a refresh of your home for the year ahead. 

Whether you are looking to incorporate new interior design trends, or want to shift to a more timeless scheme, there are plenty of easy refreshes you can do that don't require a whole renovation.

Here, designers have shared the 10 ways they revamp their homes in the New Year to make a space feel like new. 

How to refresh your home for the New Year 

‘A New Year is often a great time to refresh on our interiors,’ begins the founder of AMC Design, Ann Marie Cousins. ‘After a busy year and festive season, taking time in January to look at and evaluate our spaces can be done in a number of ways – from decluttering and home organization to adding color and life into décor and home furnishings.’

1. Restyle a coffee table to inject fresh color 

Refreshing a living room for the New Year doesn’t have to mean completely changing the layout of a space. Simply switching up coffee table decor can be enough to refresh the room, and reflect the new interests you want to focus on in the New Year.

‘Restyling a coffee table is a great way to freshen up a space. These are typically in the center of the room so are often a focal point and immediately draw the eye,’ advises Jo Maudsley, director at Charlton Brown. ‘Make sure you have items of different heights – perhaps a collection of books, a candle, and some fresh flowers. A good way to keep coffee table styling neat and avoid clutter is to use a tray or a book to compile objects onto,’ he suggests.

‘New coffee table books are cheaper than art and can add a lot to a space,’ adds Samuel Pye, creative manager at Echlin. Our favorites are below.

2. Bring in seasonal flowers to shift towards spring

Floral trends come and go, but spring flowers never go out of style and can make a post-Christmas space feel fresher instantly. 

‘We would suggest using seasonal flowers so that there is a continuous change in the room, whether they are from your garden, walks, or your local florist; this really transforms the spaces and keeps it feeling fresh,’ says Jo Maudsley, of Charlton Brown.

3. Change your home fragrances

Intentionally curating home fragrances adds another dimension to your home decorating, and picking out new scents for the New Year can really help freshen your interiors. 

‘Either changing the scent in your reed diffusers or getting one in the first place can dramatically change the feel of a room,’ says Samuel Pye, of design studio Echlin. ‘It works particularly well to change these with the seasons, going for woodier and darker scents in the winter and lighter and fresher in the summer.’

This is our favorite.

4. Introduce a new light fitting or lamp

Lighting can be easily overlooked once in place, however, your lamps do more than just illuminate your home. Beautiful lighting can help to elevate a space, so adding a new sculptural or statement lamp in place of your old one can do wonders for reinvigorating a room. 

‘A new light, particularly floor lamps and pendant lamps, is like a new pair of shoes and it can lift everything else up around it,’ Samuel Pye of Echlin muses. ‘This works particularly well if you’ve not been one to invest too much time or money in lighting before. You won’t regret the change it makes.’

Just be cautious when leaning into lighting trends – always invest in a statement piece that will stand the test of time. 

5. Give rooms a bold update with paint

Trying out new paint ideas is an obvious choice when trying to make a home feel different, but it is a go-to option for a reason. Between incorporating new color trends for an up-to-date space and simply adding a new coat to freshen up existing schemes, paint is a truly transformative tool.

‘If you want to dramatically change the look and feel of a room – paint it,’ says Ed O'Donnell, co-founder of Angel O'Donnell. ‘Be brave. If your walls are pale, go for a deep ruddy red, inky inchyra blue, or rich moss green, any color that’s different from the one you have. Similarly, if your walls are dark, go in the opposite direction. This is all about doing something new, bold, and transformative.’ 

You don’t have to repaint a whole room just to make a space feel new, however. Painting smaller sections such as trims and alcoves, or even trying out bold ceiling paint can help to breathe new life into your home. 

‘In an old home, painting your woodwork such as baseboard and any cornice the same color as your walls is a great way to freshen a space,’ continues Samuel Pye, creative manager at Echlin. ‘To me, it feels more architectural, and it elongates your walls making ceilings feel higher. ‘If it’s not too long since you decorated, it should not cause an issue blending with your wall color, as there is a natural break line and most DIY stores can match your wall color to a water-based woodwork paint that dries in a couple of hours.’

6. Upcycle old furniture to keep treasures in the family 

‘Upcycling is ethical, affordable, and rewarding,’ says Ed O'Donnell, of Angel O'Donnell. ‘Select a well-loved piece of furniture in your home and give it a new lease of life. If a chair needs reupholstering, try dual fabrics of contrasting colors or materials. Or pick out an arm, seat or side panel in a pattern. This is your opportunity to make a new design statement with an existing piece.’

Commissioning upholstery and soft furnishings is the best way to get a professional finish since upholsterers can advise on the best fabrics to use on specific pieces of furniture; you can invest your energies in choosing the best designs.

7. Swap soft furnishings in – and out – of rooms

The clever deployment of pillows, throws, window treatments, and rugs is the simplest way of revising a home – especially if you are decorating a home on a budget. 

‘Clever use of color can be an effective way to freshen up a home. Bold colors are best used on accessories and soft furnishings which can be more easily replaced, swapped, and switched around, giving the home a boost of energy every now and again,’ says Jo Maudsley, director at Charlton Brown. 

‘It’s harder to do this with staple items like sofas, headboards, and expensive pieces, so it’s best to keep these more subdued, as they will likely remain in place for some time.

‘Alternatively, rather than investing in new items, think about borrowing accessories from other rooms in the home, swapping around pillows, throws, rugs, and mirrors to give each space a new lease of life.’

8. Rethink artwork

Understanding how to choose art for your home is important, especially if you are looking for pieces you connect with and have a personal value. Despite this, you may find yourself falling out of love with pieces you originally craved.  

‘If you’re lucky enough to have a lot of art lying around, dust it off and arrange it on a wall,’ suggests Ed O'Donnell, co-founder of Angel O'Donnell. ‘Otherwise, select a few cherished family photos, visit fairs in search of second-hand prints and colorful postcards, and if you have children, frame some of their favorite school paintings. The point is, you don’t need an expensive art collection to create a gallery wall and transform the feel of a room.’

9. Decluttering and restyle shelves

‘A shelf groaning under the weight of life’s detritus – old manuals, loose bits of paper, broken widgets – can drain a room of energy. So, put aside half a day to shred the paperwork you no longer need, place files into cupboards, and fix anything broken,’ advises Ed O'Donnell of Angel O'Donnell. 

‘If you find something useful you no longer want, donate it to charity. Decluttering soothes the soul and frees up space for flowers, mementos, pictures, and books. It’s life-changing.’

Once cleared, styling shelves beautifully can help stop clutter from re-accumulating and undoing your hard work. 

10. Reinvent walls with wallpaper borders

Wallpaper is often overlooked in favor of easier-to-use paint, but a fresh wall pattern can be more than enough to rejuvenate a room. Wallpaper borders saw a new lease of life in the past year, making them ideal for revamping existing wall decor without the effort of stripping and replacing wallpaper panels. 

‘Although people may not already own them, wallpaper borders are a quick and cost-effective way to give a room a lift without having to wallpaper the whole space,’ says Susie Atkinson, designer and founder of Studio Atkinson. 

‘Borders are a cost-effective way of refreshing a room without having to go to the lengths of rehanging a whole room with wallpaper. You can really get creative with them. For example, if you want to lift a room you can use borders to create panel frames or even use them on furniture or under the tread of a staircase. There really are no rules!’

How can I freshen my house for the New Year?

If your home is in need of a refresh at the beginning of the year, then embarking on whole-home decluttering is a great start. Decluttering your space helps to get rid of unused items, makes space for new belongings (especially important straight after Christmas), and removes pieces you have fallen out of love with. Decluttering in this way will help you start the New Year on the right foot with a positive mental attitude toward your home.

How can I make my home happy and positive?

Getting rid of belongings and objects that bring bad memories, or that you have negative associations with is a great place to start when trying to make a home feel happy and positive. Beside this, happy room ideas include introducing fresh, light colors, such as yellow and pale green; texture in natural materials; and techniques such as hanging mirrors to boost light levels.

There's a reason not a single episode of Fixer Upper doesn't involve Joanna Gaines rolling out a rug to finish off a space. Be it jute, Persian or Berber, an area rug always earns its place, ticking so many interior design boxes. 

As well as offering pattern, texture, zones, and the rest, it makes any room feel more intentional, and therefore cozy and inviting. Choosing a rug and working out the right area rug sizes for a living room can be daunting, and given that it's probably not the only thing we're buying for our homes, we're easily swayed by price. 

But choosing a too-small rug is a real pet peeve in the world of interiors. We turned to experts at a vintage rug company, an interior designer, and the professionals at Ruggable to help you select the right size for you so you can head to checkout with confidence.

Area rug sizes for living room

1. Leave a 12 to 18-inch border

First, we asked Claire Fitzpatrick, Chief of Staff at Ruggable, the washable rug company what she would recommend. She shared a few practical points to use as a guide when deciding on the best area rug sizes for a living room. 'The golden rule for living room rugs is to leave a 12 to 18-inch border between the rug and the walls,' she begins. 

'8' x 10' rugs are best sellers for living rooms because they fit perfectly in your average-sized living room (typically around 11in x 13in).'

2. Follow the 70% rule

Lindsey Graziano is the owner of New England Loom, a curated vintage rugs company. She says the average size area rug for a living room is 9ft x 12ft, and the ideal area rug sizes for a living room totally depend on the size of the room. 

'But the rug should cover at least 70% of your floor space, ideally leaving 1 to 2 feet on either side between the rug and the wall. Rug layering is a great option for when you want to use a smaller rug but also fill the floor space,' she adds. So a rug mistake can easily be rectified.

3. Measure the area under your coffee table in a small living room

For smaller spaces, it's okay to have the rug under the coffee table and nothing else, Claire says. For larger spaces, however, you'll want either two or four legs of your sofa and chairs on the rug. 'Keep it consistent across pieces!' she says.

4. Consider how you want the living room to feel

Nick Spain is the founder of Arthur's, a design studio working across interiors and gardens in NYC, Hudson Valley, and The Berkshires. He views area rug sizes as a powerful tool in creating a certain mood in a space, from friendly to formal. 'A large, oversized rug that goes almost wall-to-wall often gives the feeling of wanting to spread out and lounge,' Nick says, 'sort of like living inside a wide-armed hug.

'Whereas a smaller area rug that shows more of the floor lends itself to more clearly defined spaces and can give a room a much more formal feeling and a sense of purpose.'

Nick says that at Arthur's they do a lot of 8ft x 10ft rugs and 9ft x 12ft rugs, and sometimes layer smaller rugs on top to create more defined, programmatic space if a client wants it. 'But ultimately, the size of the rug is determined by the size of the room and the way you want to feel in the space,' he says.

5. Size down in small living rooms

If you have a small living room, you'll want to size down on a rug, says Claire from Ruggable. Because, without that border between the rug and walls, the rug can make the room feel smaller than it actually is. 'In contrast, large living rooms or open floor plans look great with a larger rug (9ft x 12ft or bigger), as it helps define the living space from other spaces in the room,' she explains. 

How far should a rug go under a couch?

'It totally depends on the placement of the couch in the living room,' says Lindsey Graziano. 'Ideally, it would go under at least the two front legs.'

Does a large rug make a room look bigger or smaller?

'One of the worst design mistakes you can make is to use too small of a rug, which will make the room look smaller!' says Lindsey. But buying the right-sized rug can make a small living room look bigger.

Is an 8ft x10ft rug big enough for a living room?

Lindsey says that most living room rugs she sells at New England Loom are between 8ft x 10ft to 10ft x 14ft, so 8ft x 10ft is on the smaller end of the scale. This might suit an average-sized living room. Check to see how much of a border would be left around the edge of your space and see if it's worth sizing up or look at Ruggable's rug size guide.

Make these small living room mistakes and your space will look smaller and darker, feel cramped and cluttered, and be dysfunctional.

After all, more compact living spaces have a ton of work to do, whether they are single spaces or part of an open-plan arrangement. It's likely you'll spend time there relaxing, entertaining, working and maybe even eating. 

So, before you even think wall colors and couch materials, let's help you get those small living room layouts perfected. Experts tell us what to avoid, and how to get it right.

Small living room layouts experts want you to avoid

From the wrong furniture sizes and styles to poor positioning and placement, these missteps can be easily swerved to help you make your small living room look bigger.

1. Cramming in too much single seating

Despite what you might think, sectional living room ideas do have a place in small living rooms. In fact, if you get the size of them just right (so that they don't take up all the floor space, so that they don't block thoroughfares), they are better than a jumble of single seating which, in the end, can't accommodate as many people.

‘Don't compromise on the scale of your furniture. A small room doesn't mean it needs small furniture. Try not to scale it down, instead, embrace a small living room with a large sectional and it becomes so much more inviting,' says Camilla Clarke, creative director at Albion Nord. 

Note the lack of arms on this sectional? That design choice isn't favored by all, but it does cut down on the visual bulk of the piece which can help make the room feel bigger.

2. Ignoring the space-enhancing effects of symmetry

'Symmetry in interior design is often used by professionals to create a balance that is really space enhancing. A symmetrical layout is easy on the eye, and can be very practical, too. It doesn't all have to match – the accessorises can be different, as long as the main pieces of furniture do and they are placed in perfect alignment – that's the key,' says Jennifer Ebert, digital editor, Homes & Gardens.

3. Putting bulky furniture in front of windows

The taller your furniture, the more visual bulk it has, which isn't ideal in a small space. So, looking for low-slung pieces makes sense. However, show legs that elevate it are a good thing, since they allow the eye to travel further into the room, making it seem larger still.

'If you are short for space in the living room, adding legs to your couch choice would be most effective for bringing in the illusion of space. There is something about being able to see more floor which creates the feel of spaciousness especially when you aren’t spoiled for it,' says Patricia Gibbons, design team at Sofa.com.  

If you are stuck with bulky furniture, however, try to avoid putting it across a window, and if you have to, pull it inwards a little. The ideal is to allow as much light into the room as possible, so keeping living room windows as uncluttered by furniture (and drapes, for that matter) is what you're aiming for.

4. Sticking to a furniture-against-the-wall model

If your living room's layout or style demands a couch combination, think about furniture placement carefully. And this can mean having them opposite each other more centrally in the room, rather than pushed back against walls.

'It's important to consider the option of multiple couches, maybe a three-seater and two-seater combination that may suit the space better and designs with slimmer arms to provide enough seating space,' says Emma Deterding, Founder and Creative Director, Kelling Designs. 'Not only will these help to create a better layout and flow, they'll also provide enough seats where necessary and help make the room feel more spacious.'

5. Not using furniture to create open-plan zones

'I can’t say this enough: please, please don’t put your furniture on the exterior walls of the room! Floating your furniture in the middle not only makes the space appear larger, it’s easier circulation to get in and out of the seating area. I promise it will make your space look and feel larger. Add an area to rug to ground the space and you’re set!' says Kristin Bartone, creative director and principal of Bartone Interiors. 

It is also, the perfect way to zone an open plan space, with a long sofa providing a barrier between seating and eating, for example.

6. Leaving no room for negative space

'We mention a small living room's thoroughfares above but I can't stress their importance enough,' says Lucy Searle, global editor in chief, Homes & Gardens. 'You may hear about negative space in interior design. This is simply about allowing a space to breathe by not over-filling it which, inevitably, makes it look and feel smaller.

'Every step you make to pare back furniture, to buy versatile pieces with hidden storage, or to swap out separate seats for sectionals reveals more negative space in the room, which in turn helps it feel larger.'

7. Building the layout around the TV

Of course we recognize that you want to watch TV (as do we) but it's a glaring small living room layout mistake to build the entire space around the TV. Instead, ensure the seating is positioned so that the space is easy for socializing, which means no seat more than 3 to 4ft apart, and as a group, facing each other. Do all this while keeping the TV's position in mind. 

'It's good to have a mix of seating as it makes for a more sociable experience for both family and friends. As much as we love a couch, you tend to sit in a line which makes talking to someone harder, so having a couple of comfy chairs and even a stool or two will create more of a social hub. You can use a coffee table or footstool as the anchor and place everything around it,' says Jo Bailey, deputy editor, Homes & Gardens.

8. Not rethinking the classic coffee table layout

'The traditional square or rectangular coffee table, in some settings, is not a positive,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens. 'This clunky shape is often hard-edged and space-inefficient.

'Instead, I'd urge anyone with a small living room to avoid this layout mistake and swap theirs out for a low circular or oval table (which, without corners allows for more negative space), or for a footstool, which is softer-looking, great for putting your feet up on and, if you have a large tray, just as good as a coffee table.

'Or you could follow Breegan Jane's coffee table rule for small living rooms and opt for a moveable nest of smaller tables that can be used as a central surface or useful side tables.'

9. Not planning the lighting and side tables from the get-go

Small living room layout mistakes aren't confined to furniture: small living room lighting is an essential layout tool, too, because you really want to ensure that the furniture placement allows you to create flattering lighting effects, too.

So, as well as planning your central pendant at the outset, consider where floor-standing or table lamps will go to create softer, more atmospheric pools of light, and whether there's room for them on or around furniture.

10. Not designating a focal point

Every room is more successful if it has a focal point. Usually this is architectural: a window or fireplace, perhaps. However, you can make an outstanding piece of furniture, sat on a beautiful rug with an eye-catching table atop it the focal feature of your room. Knowing which wall to accent in a living room can help where there is no architectural detailing – perhaps in a modern apartment.

What is the most common error in living room furniture placement?

The most common error in living room furniture layout is not providing clear thoroughfares. You might hear it referred to as 'flow' or 'negative space', but essentially, it's the means of getting in, out and through. If the flow is poor, the room will look cluttered and badly planned, and it will be frustrating to live with. Ideally, ensure there are 3ft wide pathways at least to navigate around the room.

Interior designer Breegan Jane has shared her simple rule for small living rooms, and it throws away the rule book in favor of something much more practical. When we're trying to make a small living room work, it can sometimes feel like a game of Tetris, trying to fit everything in while maintaining a sense of flow and a focal point.

But what Breegan Jane suggests is to remove your coffee table entirely, and replace it with multiple small side tables. The easy trick frees up a whole load of space in a small living room as well as giving you a flexible furniture layout that you can adapt depending on how you're using the space.

The coffee table is an interior design staple, traditionally used as a focal point, but in living areas with a small footprint, Breegan recommends finding alternative solutions. As we all know, rearranging the furniture can breathe new life into a room, and this approach to designing a living room stops it from feeling static.

Breegan Jane's coffee table rule for small living rooms

‘I’m all about ditching your traditional coffee table right now and doing small occasional tables,' says Breegan Jane, who has appeared on HGTV's Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. 'I can’t get enough of tiny tables, and I’m talking four in your living room area so you can constantly create different modular scenes.' 

As well as giving you more freedom with your living room layout – changing it from 'daytime mode' where kids might be playing to a more adult atmosphere in the evening, for example – it also means you can continually create new little vignettes with decorative pieces. 

Breegan Jane says that a few smaller side tables have proven to be more functional than one large coffee table when she's at home with her two young boys. 'We’re constantly using the computer or making popcorn or serving wine,' she shares, 'and small little tables are always useful.'

Breegan Jane says you can never have too many small tables. 'I notice even in my house, I have tiny tables everywhere and they’re always moving throughout my house in different places based on different needs,' she comments.

Breegan recommends purchasing more small side tables than you think you need because you'll find they'll serve a purpose in any room of the home. Side tables of varying heights that stack or fold down are particularly effective small living room storage solutions, as you can easily hide them away when they're not in use.

'When I was at High Point Market this fall, I saw lots of different new interpretations of the classic coffee table. There were footstools designed with an integral tray and modular coffee table nests that can easily be dissembled as side tables,' says Lucy Searle, Global Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens. 'You can also find circular side tables that have one quarter cut out of them, that slot neatly into the arm of a sofa.

'Personally, I prefer having a long footstool in the living room because it's softer and more multi-functional,' Lucy continues. 'Mine is usually layered up with blankets and trays and it's the perfect spot to put your feet up with a cup of tea. Admittedly, a large footstool might not work in small living rooms, which require us to think outside the box a bit more, but even a small one with a lift-up lid for hidden storage can be a better alternative to a traditional coffee table, especially as the rounder edges feel more space-efficient and look softer and more inviting. Ultimately, it's got to work for you, but we're definitely seeing more creative solutions that work just as well if not better than the standard coffee table.'

Coffee tables are a classic for a reason: they're a great way to anchor a larger space, and they go a long way in making a convivial setup, as demonstrated in the cozy living room above. But unlike side tables, they aren't especially versatile, so they just aren't the best solution for a small living room that might well be doubling up as your home office or playroom. 

They're the perfect place to arrange your favorite coffee table books and best candles, but if you find coffee table styling hard and the room isn't working for you, it's time to change things up.

Another option is to find an ottoman that has storage inside it and then use a tray on top for displaying homeware pieces. This provides you with more storage that's hidden out of sight. Thinking carefully about how you use the space is always better than buying a coffee table just because you think you have to.

Choosing the best furniture is one of the biggest challenges in the home, especially when it comes to finding the right coffee table or the best sofa in a living or family room. What you choose needs to be contemporary and contribute to the personality and harmony of the space.

This is where the size and shape of your coffee table will truly shine – usually the central piece of furniture in this social space, the humble coffee table has a vital part to play. When it comes to living room furniture ideas, it's not just the look and style of furniture that's important – it's the height, too. 

Often the last piece of furniture to be bought – after the sofa and storage – coffee tables are often, even unintentionally, the focal point of a living room, so finding the perfect coffee table décor ideas is a must, as well as knowing if a coffee table should be lower than a sofa.  

Should a coffee table be lower than a sofa?

It may seem insignificant at first thought, but the height of a coffee table is actually of great importance. The relative height of the coffee table, and other furniture, is key when deciding how to design a living room. Get it right and you'll have a cohesive scheme that's the envy of your friends and family. 

The answer to this vital question may decide the final look, feel, and function of your home. Get it wrong and you risk creating a scheme that confuses the mind. 

Catherine Staples, the principal designer at Toronto-based Aspen & Ivy, agrees. ‘It depends on the style,' she says. 'So a modern home tends to have furniture that is the same height. Whereas traditional or transitional styles play with sight lines for interest.'

Take these points into consideration in your living room layout ideas and you won't go wrong.

1. Choose a coffee table that is lower than your sofa

There are many possibilities at play when deciding whether your coffee table should be lower than a sofa. Firstly, think about the focal point. Not taking the focal point into consideration is a furniture arranging mistake to avoid. A focal point in a room is important, not only does having one help to anchor a room, but it also serves as an area to decorate around. 

Here, rather unusually, the standout feature is the impressive window and vista beyond. In this earthy space, designed by Cortney Bishop, the coffee table is lower than the sofa, which works beautifully to enhance the view and chime beautifully with all the wood, raw and neutral elements elsewhere. Elegant, and effortlessly chic, a combination of raw wood, woven materials, and natural textures is a timeless choice that will you will love for years and years.

2. Keep a coffee table at the same height for practical purposes 

Finding a coffee table that is the same height as your sofa has many advantages, but as well as height, you should also consider the material used. A coffee table doesn't always need to have a hard surface, in fact, investing in a padded or upholstered design, also known as an ottoman, will add softness, and texture to your family room. Plus, you can also use your coffee table as a footrest if it is the same height as a sofa. 

One of the most common mistakes made when specifying an ottoman is to do with size, says interior decorator and fabric designer Susan Deliss. ‘If you are not sure about the size of the ottoman, fold an old sheet to the size you think might work and lay it on the floor in front of your furniture,’ recommends Susan. ‘Ask yourself, can you walk comfortably between it and your sofa or chair? Can your legs reach it if you sit on your sofa and want to put your feet on it?’

3. Go for a coffee table that is taller than a sofa

If you want your coffee table to stand out and not just be a sideshow to surrounding furniture, invest in a design that is taller and unusual. The contrasts between the varying height of furniture will make a space feel interesting and unexpected – and will also highlight the differences between individual pieces so the eye appreciates them more. 

Find the line between eclectic and chaotic. Don’t cram too many pieces into your living room – and balance out the furniture with neutral walls. 

Best places to buy furniture 

• Anthropologie
• Bloomingdale's
• Wayfair
• Target
• Nordstrom
• The White Company

Decorating and styling a console table, whether in your entryway, living room, even bedroom, can make or break a room. A console table is, after all, a prominent piece of furniture. 

Leave it to gather dust and clutter and it will become an eyesore, but curate it elegantly and it will instantly lift a room. Leaving its surface empty is a missed opportunity, too, to create a wonderful vignette.

Here, we’ve put together console table styling solutions for your entryway table decor and to add to your collection of living room ideas for a space that’s elegant, appealing, and individual in its design. 

How to style a console table

Much like coffee table styling ideas, color, line, texture, and scale of items such as table lamps, objets, artwork, and books are all important considerations when considering how to style a console table, whether it is located in a contemporary or more traditional space.

We asked some of the world's best interior designers for their top five rules on decorating a console table for impact – ideal for your arsenal of entryway ideas.

1. Make space for a console in a small space

'There's no denying that even small entryways benefit from a beautifully styled console table, though you may need to be clever with the design to keep the space feeling streamlined,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief, Homes & Gardens.

'I love the way this console table has been cleverly conjured up with a wall hung shelf; the fixings are hidden behind a smart profile above the radiator (which will also help keep the heat from rising), and the small lamps are battery-run, keeping the finish neat. Topped with a perfectly proportioned mirror and wall light, the space feels luxuriously elegant, without feeling compromised.'

2. Put a console table to good use

Not every dining room needs a buffet or sideboard for storage, and if space is tight, it is actually better swap out solid pieces of furniture for less bulky pieces. This is where console tables can come into their own. You can style your console with a tray of drinks (it's the perfect small home bar), keep your candles there when they're not in use and place a lamp on the top to create an inviting pool of light. As always, placing a picture just above the console will ensure the vignette feels complete.

3. Decorate a console with a curated display

Every great console display needs a picture or mirror sat just behind it – and not so high up that it feel disconnected from it. 

'We love the idea of a console styled up with a curated collection,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor. 'This could be items brought back from your travels, or simply some exotic finds picked up at Currey & Co.

4. Create a cohesive look

Consider working with a theme for the objects on a console table for a cohesive look. Here, an antiqued glass mirror takes center stage, with a range of objets in a range of natural tones displayed casually, but deliberately.

Pieces that don’t take the same cue prevent the whole from looking over the top, and create a frame for the display.

5. Opt for a pair of table lamps

How to style a console table and give it classic credentials? Selecting a pair of table lamps is a traditional approach to creating symmetry in interior design that’s perfect for many rooms, and a classic amongst entryway lighting ideas. 

‘When styling a console, I typically aim for symmetry, whether that's accomplished with lamps, vases, or decorative objects,’ says Ashley DeLapp, founder and principal designer of Ashley DeLapp Interior Design. 

Follow this approach when decorating a console table and little else may be needed for a beautiful display. ‘I like to keep things streamlined and clean, using books to add height while showcasing special trinkets or collections of flowers,’ Ashley says.

6. Make it minimal

In a contemporary room scheme, paring back what’s on the console table can be the best tactic. What’s crucial if that’s the case is selecting decorative pieces of sufficient scale to appear considered. On this table a simple bowl of flowers draws the eye while the focus is on the artwork above, framed by the console below.

7. Match materials or echo shapes

One possible strategy when thinking about how to style a console table is to take a lead from the table itself. This design’s legs are echoed by the quirky lamp, vases and even the artwork. The picture frame above repeats the color of the table's material for a pulled-together result.

8. Display art on a console table

Decorating with art is important in mastering console table styling, and there is a choice of ways to show artworks on a console table – here, designer Adam Bray showcases sculptures and textiles in a simple but stunning arrangement.

Another route to foregrounding art is to place it on an easel. 

‘I love to incorporate a piece of art on an easel when styling a console table,’ says Grace Brackman, associate designer, Maggie Griffin Design. ‘Whether an antique or abstract piece, art is a great way to integrate color and pattern to your tabletop.’

9. Keep it natural

Considering how to style a console table when the goal is a soothing scheme? Opting for a color palette in gentle natural tones is a great approach, especially in an entryway. In this space, organic color and texture are prominent on the plant pot and console table itself and complemented by the softest of hues on the lamp base. 

Follow this example by hanging a mirror low enough to reflect the objects on display to boost their impact.

10. Adopt a contemporary approach

A symmetrical arrangement of well-proportioned lamps or urns on a console table is a sure-fire choice, but opting for asymmetry is an interesting and modern alternative.

‘Try grouping a piece of sculpture, a statement lamp and a vase of flowers for a look that is balanced but has a more contemporary feel,’ says designer Birdie Fortescue. ‘Use a generous rug in coordinating tones and a congruous painting or mirror to complete the scheme.’

11. Change the lines

Entryways tend to be thoroughfares we give little thought to – and often interesting architecture is lacking. To up the style quotient, choose a console table with curvaceous lines, and echo its shapes and materials in the vases and sculptural finds displayed on top.

12. Choose antiques

Decorating with antiques makes a beautiful focal point, but how to style a console table like this?

‘An antique console does more than provide a place to set things down,’ says Henriette von Stockhausen, co-founder and creative director of VSP Interiors. ‘By adding a pair of lamps with antique silk shades for a welcoming glow, along with art, tapestries and decorative items, one can create a layered comfortable look.’ 

13. Play with pastels

Make a pleasing vignette on a larger console table with a pastel palette to draw a variety of pretty pieces and a floral arrangement together. The addition of white keeps the effect fresh and sophisticated. Smaller decorative pieces are best grouped, while taller designs will introduce the height that’s necessary on a larger piece of furniture. 

If you’re including artwork, hang it close to the table so it reads as part of the whole, and link it with color, too.

14. Frame an entry table display with wallpaper

Entryways can be tricky spaces to deal with as the proportions are often slim, and they suffer from little natural light and architectural interest. However, you can use some hallway wallpaper ideas to help create interest, as Irene Gunter, founder of interior design studio Gunter & Co explains:

‘I really wanted to introduce some wallpaper to inject color and texture but it wouldn't have worked in large amounts. This discreet frame detail that our joiner made from liquid metal panelling beads has created such a big impact, it provides a beautiful space for the wallpaper whilst framing the entry table perfectly.’

The position of the over-sized centrally-hung mirror is key, too – it is close enough to the console below to become part of the display of accessories, giving the entryway incredible impact and focus.

15. Display prized antiques in an entryway

Beautifully crafted antique console tables can look fabulous and add instant character to entryways – and if you’re lucky enough to have the space then a narrow piece can fit perfectly, like in this hallway by interior designer Penny Morrison. 

Add a pair of patterned table lamps to create balance at either end of the table, a gallery wall of smartly framed paintings and an impactful vase of blooms for a softening decorative touch. Antique fairs have a wealth of fabulous finds that you can display too – from small trinket boxes to stunning ceramics. 

16. Decorate a console table to make a small entryway feel larger

‘First impressions are essential when welcoming both you and your guests into your home. In order to achieve a statement hallway, I always incorporate a console or entry table into the space, which is both functional and elegant,’ says London based bespoke interior designer Louise Bradley. 

‘When dressing the entry table, it is important to consider both purpose and scale, drawing the eye into and around the room. Avoid clutter by adding a small decorative box, where you can store your essentials upon arrival or alternatively choose a console with drawers. 

'Adding greenery and a scent diffuser will also create an uplifting ambiance. Add further impact by dressing the walls with a large mirror, this will assist in reflecting natural light throughout and will open up the space.’

Note the slimline proportions of the table – including its legs – and the tall, narrow mirror – both cleverly work to exaggerate the entryway's height, making the narrow space feel more generous.

17. Pick a decorating theme for your entryway console

If your entryway console table has a distinct decorative theme – whether California Casual or country – picking accessories to decorate it with that echo that theme makes perfect sense. Here, Oka's Katsura console table has been accessorized with pieces that hint at the Oriental style of the table itself – to great success.

18. Decorate a console table with paint

Looking for cottage hallway ideas? Here, an ordinary console table has been given an extraordinary makeover with paint by British artist and paint expert Annie Sloan. She has echoed the design in the wall panelling behind it and, of course, picked accessories with a hand-painted finish. 

What looks good on a console table?

What looks good on a console table really does depend on where it sits. If you are asking what looks good in an entryway, then the console's surface will be a top consideration, and the answer will be a pair of lamps and a focal decorative piece, such as a beautiful, flower filled vase or piece of sculpture. In a living room, the answer may well differ, though at least one lamp always looks good on a console and creates an extra pool of diffused light that's very welcome. Other items you may want to include in a family space rather than an entryway include treasured photographs, a curated pile of favorite books you want to reach for regularly, and perhaps even a smart storage box in which clutter that might otherwise gather than can be neatly stashed.

How do you make a console table look expensive?

To make a console table look expensive, it's important to ensure the surface is kept clear of clutter and free of dust. Then, it's all down to the styling. The most effective ways to approach this are to put lamps at either end of the console, and a piece of sculpture or vase of flowers centrally. Then, hanging a mirror or picture just three to four inches above the surface of the table will finish the look perfectly.

How do you decorate a console?

Table lamps, artwork and framed photographs, and decorative accessories like vases, sculptures, and ceramics can all be used to decorate a console.

‘When styling a console table, consider scale and proportion,’ says Louise Wicksteed, design director at Sims Hilditch interior designers. ‘For example, table lamps framing the console add height and symmetry. Potted plans in a round bowl lead the eye, while stacked books and decorative objects add a personal touch.’

What do you use a console table for?

Console tables provide a space for table lamps and displays of decorative pieces and artwork and, because they are slim, they can fit into narrow areas like halls and entryways as well as into dining rooms and living rooms. As an alternative to positioning it against the wall, you might locate one at the back of a couch in the latter space.

They’re a versatile choice that could stand in for a desk in a compact space, or a bar when entertaining.

There are certain fundamentals when it comes to living room ideas. For a start, how you plan to use the space – for example, will it be a cozy snug, a seating area within an open-concept layout, or room for entertaining family and friends?

Whatever the answer, your seating is key. The living room is where we lounge in front of the fireplace, curl up with a book, and chat with our loved ones and guests. If your living room is on the small side, chances are you will have already factored in furniture that makes the best use of the limited space. 

That's fine for everyday living, but what about the occasions when you need to seat more people? This is when you need to get even more creative with your small living room ideas to blend your furniture choices with functionality and style.

How can you add extra seats to a small living room?

Nobody wants their small living room to seem like an obstacle course, with the flow interrupted by furniture blocking the space. But rest assured, there are many ways to add extra seats to a small living room without compromising on style. 

'You can layer ottomans and benches under cocktail tables or console tables to add seating in a small space,' suggests Karen Wolf of Karen B Wolf Interiors in New Jersey. 'Build in window seats if possible. And also consider dividing the room into separate areas to create a more functional use of space. Swivel chairs are a great choice to toggle between seating vignettes, and upholstered cocktail ottomans also add seats.'

Take a look at our ideas for adding extra seats to a small living room, provided by some of our favorite interior designers.

1. Add in multifunctional furniture

We asked the experts how to design a living room when you want additional seats in a compact space.

'We love incorporating multifunctional furniture in a small space for extra seating,' says Catherine Staples, Principal Designer at Aspen & Ivy full service interior design firm in Toronto. 'For example, in one of our projects, a cozy log chalet, our client wanted to max out seating in their small living room. Our solution was to place two swivel stools in front of the fireplace for extra seating. When they weren't in use as seating, these stools could be used as footrests for nearby sofas and chairs.'

In the room above, created by Design Lines Signature for the Beacon Street development in North Carolina, an upholstered footstool can offer service as an impromptu perch in front of the fireplace – a simple but effective living room layout idea.

2. Build in a bench seat

The space beneath a window, or in the recessed bay of a window, is prime real estate in a small living room.

'Bench seating beneath a window can work really well here,' agrees Louise Wicksteed, Design Director at Sims Hilditch. 'It adds a cosy additional space to sit in a smaller sitting room without taking up valuable floor space.'

Designed well, a bench will provide space beneath the seat for baskets or boxes to enhance your living room storage ideas. Alternatively, a window seat can have storage built-in, hidden beneath the hinged seat, making it the ultimate in multipurpose furniture.

3. Choose an upholstered coffee table

Don't forget the comfort factor when it comes to providing extra seats in a small living room – even if they are to be used for only a short time, you want people to feel welcome and at ease.

'In place of a hard surface where a coffee table would sit, one idea is to incorporate an upholstered bench or low stool, which again can duo as additional seating in the room when needed,' explains Catherine Staples from Aspen & Ivy. 'A tray can easily be placed on the bench to allow guest to set their drinks on a hard surface.'

You can go even further by including an ottoman, as this will provide a place to stash magazines and remote controls when not in use.

'Including an upholstered ottoman instead of a coffee table can provide a great place for guests to perch, and has the capacity for extra storage space beneath it,' agrees Louise Wicksteed from Sims Hilditch.

When the coffee table isn't in use, you can use it to create a focal point in a cozy space with some clever coffee table styling ideas.

4. Put a club fender around the fireplace

One living room trend that's having a resurgence is the club fender and it makes a great addition to your living room fireplace ideas. An upholstered fender can be somewhere to warm your toes when it's chilly, or a cute perch at a cocktail party when you're hosting friends.

Combined with an upholstered footstool and an occasional chair that can be pulled into the space when extra seats are needed, it's a clever way to incorporate additional seating without it dominating a small space and to maximize your cozy living room ideas.

5. Make the most of an alcove

The main seating area of this living room, designed by Sims Hilditch, is around the fireplace, but it's not the only place to relax in the space. The bay window has been used as a nook to house an additional sofa. This is a great option for a family living room, as it introduces flexibility to the space. You could have some members of the family reading on the couch, while others gather around the fire.

You could take a similar approach to an alcove next to the fireplace, or to your living room corner ideas, to find space for additional seating that doesn't intrude into the main part of the room.

Should furniture be the same height in a small living room?

Not all furniture has to be the same height, even in a small living room where creating a clean and cohesive scheme is key in order not to overwhelm the space.

Karen Wolf of Karen B Wolf Interiors is often asked should living room furniture be the same height. 'You might have the furniture in the middle section of the room at one height, while the perimeter pieces are higher to help frame the central area of the room,' she explains.

'There are no rules to heights of furniture, except that you really do not want a coffee table that is higher than the seat height or a side table extensively higher than the arms of a chair for ease of use. 

Most of the time we are using judgment as to the best scale in a room. Typically, we would use higher chairs to anchor a room (closer to the fireplace) but this is not a given.'

These home decor ideas are perfect if you are updating your home from top to bottom, or just want to add pretty seasonal touches or swap out your color schemes with a new accent shade. 

To ensure your home decor has longevity, we have garnered expert tips, ideas, inspiration and advice from interior designers and the Homes & Gardens team.

Between us, we have covered every space indoors and out... and we will keep adding more home decor inspiration so that you can continue to perfect your interior design skills.

Home decor ideas

If you are looking for clever decorating ideas, useful home decor tips or simple home ideas to make your house feel homey and look beautiful, these rooms, and accompanying expert advice, are for you.

1. Decorate your home for coziness

'There are so many good reasons to look for cozy living room ideas,' says Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (Digital) Jen Ebert. 'Whether it's because fall has come around and you feel the need to be in a warm, comforting space indoors, or because you want your home to be a haven from a busy work life, there are many ways to make a house look cozy.

'The most effective are through room color ideas; introducing a color combinations for rooms of earthy or spice shades, and combining these with natural or touchable textures. In the room above, this includes the wood framing on the wall which complements the coffee table, through the textured wall ideas and ceiling ideas.'

2. Give your home a seasonal update

If you like to decorate your home for the season, one way to switch things up is to change the color of your entryway regularly. This needn't mean decorating the entire space – simply repainting a wall or two in a shade that reflects the mood of the season can make all the difference.

'An entryway is a great space for a seasonal update, perhaps fall decor ideas in September and spring decor ideas in March,' says Sarah Spiteri, Editorial Director, Homes & Gardens. 'For one, it's the room that everyone sees, from family to guests; and secondly, it's an area of your home that gets a fair amount of wear and tear, so it's likely that it will need a new coat of paint a couple of times a year anyway.' 

3. Decorate your home for wellbeing 

More and more of us are searching for 'happy room ideas' in order to create homes that don't just look good but feel good too. 

'Happy room ideas are difficult to pin down,' says Sarah Spiteri, 'because what makes one person happy is different to what makes another person happy. However, color experts and wellbeing experts tend to agree that uncluttered spaces that have plenty of natural textures and a touch of yellow are most likely to appeal to the senses of most of us.'

4. Bring light into your rooms

'Ensuring a room has as much light in it as is possible is key to any home decor being successful,' says Jo Bailey, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (Print) and stylist. 'This will of course mean daylight, which will make a room feel warmer, larger and more welcoming. You can boost this by rethinking bulky curtain ideas, decluttering and decorating with light colors.

'But equal attention should be given to artificial light, too: which means ensuring each room has a balanced mix of ambient, accent and task lighting in every single space. Never, if you can help it, rely on a single overhead bulb.'

5. Prioritize storage and organization

Your home decor ideas can't shine if you haven't maximized your storage ideas and home organizing ideas, especially if you have the task of organizing small spaces.

'In my experience of renovating and remodelling city homes, it is vital to include built-in storage that can make use of every inch of space,' says Sarah Spiteri. 'If you can make that storage dual-purpose or multi-functional, even better. The room above is a really good example of this, with a window seat hiding spacious storage beneath.'

7. Focus on the heart of the home

As we've said before, home decor shouldn't just be about what a house looks like but how it makes you feel, and that's based around how you use it. So, which room does your family love to spend the most time in? The kitchen-diner? The family room? Is it the best it can be? Or could you improve the home decor ideas within it to make it more welcoming, more sociable? 

Whichever, the room's seating and layout are vital: sectional living room ideas that gather atop a rug and around a coffee table are just as likely to ensure an inviting, welcoming space as kitchen island seating that allows the cook to be a part of the conversation. The other home decor element to focus on? The room's color: as we have said before, warmer shades are more welcoming and invite you to linger.

8. Lift a neutral scheme with subtle detailing

The simple addition of gold paint on the structure of the shelving is a fantastic idea for anyone considering enlivening details for their neutral room ideas. The key is subtlety. 

'A neutral needs to be paired with other materials to sing: timber and marble work well,' says interior designer and founder of Elicyon design agency Charu Gandhi. 'I also love teaming them with suede and woollen rugs. Ceramic, clay and colored glass are great for decorative elements.'

9. Paint window frames a bold accent shade

Adding accent colors needn't be done through accessories alone. You can use paint. 

'Painting window frames, reveals and shutters in a strong color not only makes a striking design feature, but accentuates the view and changes the feel of the light entering the room,' says Melanie Griffiths, Editor of Period Living magazine and regular Homes & Gardens' contributor. 

'Opt for on-trend terracotta to imbue the space with warmth, as in this scheme by Dado Atelier, or sunny yellow to brighten the space on even the gloomiest of days.'

10. Add faux panelling to max architectural interest

Paneling ideas for walls come in all forms, from original period features to lookalike modern imitations to more imaginative treatments. This living room, by interior designer Irene Gunter of Gunter & Co, is a fine example of the latter, with faux paneling created with simple, framed wallpaper panels. Note how the sofa sits centrally under a panel, which is the perfect fit for it. This creates a neat, pleasing symmetry in interior design, only heightened by the painting in the central panel.

11. Add trim to curtains and cushions for interest

This Charlotte Gaisford-designed space not only showcases how to mix patterns in interior design perfectly, but also the importance of attention to detail – here, with trim.

'Introduce cushions and throws to your seating – and why not add a tassel trim or fringe detail to create a more bespoke finish?' says interior designer Martin Brudnizki. 'You can source beautiful tassels and trims from Samuel & Sons, but if your budget is tighter I recommend VV Rouleaux.'

12. Decorate door panels to add pattern to a plain scheme

This is a beautiful way to add pattern to an otherwise plain scheme, and the beauty of it is that it can be swapped out with the seasons far more easily – and inexpensively – than the wallpaper across a whole wall can. We would advise using peel and stick wallpaper to avoid damage to the doors and to ensure that any regular swaps are easy to achieve.

13. Hang a tapestry for a layered look

This space, designed by Henriette von Stockhausen, interior designer, founder of VSP Interiors and contributor to Homes & Gardens, graced the cover of H&G magazine and we picked it because it's a perfect example of how to use tapestries to great effect.

‘Tapestries often help to bring the outside world in, with landscape scenes of dense foliage and earthy colors. We often like to hang tapestries near or opposite windows to create an extension of the outdoor within a room,’ Creative Director of Albion Nord Camilla Clarke explains.

14. Color coordinate a flower arrangement

'One of my favorite home decor ideas is accessorizing a room with flowers. Bringing a sense of the outdoors inside can make a space feel more calming and tranquil. From a small vase of flowers on a bedside table, to a large botanical display in a hallway or for a tablescape idea, using fresh flowers can create an inviting space that enhances feelings of happiness and positivity,' says Homes & Gardens' Content Editor Zara Stacey. 

'Coordinating the floral arrangement with your decor can beautifully elevate your interior design, whether that’s matching with a floral wallpaper, or using lots of foliage to complement an earthy, grounding paint shade, these natural finishing touches can often bring a design scheme together to feel balanced and complete.'

15. Embrace the revival of Chinoiserie

'I'm loving the current revival of Chinoiserie, with wallpapers inspired by the landscapes of East Asia, and popular in the West in the mid 18th to early 19th century. With their whimsical yet intricate representations of flowers and birds, I feel the designs transport you to a fantastical, exotic paradise while heightening the sense of being connected to nature. 

Diane Hill's stunning new collaboration with Harlequin is perfect for a feature wall or window dressing. 'We wanted to inspire people to decorate boldly, unapologetically and to their own room,' she says. 'The collection was based on traditional 18th-century designs, but we gave it a modern refresh.'

16. Add a surprising splash of color to trim

Just the merest splash of paint can completely transform a space and, in an open-plan area, can tie the different zones together.

The architrave in interior designer Suzy Hoodless'' home was painted yellow to create a division between the two rooms but also for some sunshine in the space and to lift the room, she says.

So, why not pick out the accent color you love most and giving it a bigger role?

17. Brave a bold color in an evening-only room

'Interior designer Jessica Buckley is known for her punchy use of color and pattern and this scheme is one of my favorites for its use of bold color and mix of patterns in this sitting room,' says Vivienne Ayers, Houses Editor of Homes & Gardens.

‘It’s used mostly after dark so I opted for a deeper more dramatic saturated color that would be cozier in the evening,’ says Jessica. 'The cabinetry was painted in the same color as the walls.'

18. Wallpaper an alcove

There are so many alcove ideas you can use to make spaces feel more interesting, from clever shelving units to decor tricks. We love the simplicity of the treatment here, where a shallow alcove with few opportunities for effective storage is instead given a starring role with wallpaper.

19. Hang plates for an intriguing gallery wall

Discover how to hang plates on a wall and you will quickly become hooked on creating colorful, 3D displays that artwork rarely manages to match. 

This space is by Henriette von Stockhausen of VSP Interiors, but her contemporary, Emma Sims Hilditch of Sims Hilditch interior design agency says, 'The selection of art is an intensely personal and often costly process. For those looking for a more economical and slightly different way to fill a blank space in a room, then a plate wall is a great solution and is easier to do than you might think.'  

20. Style a coffee table like a design expert

Coffee table styling is one of the easiest home decor ideas you can embrace. The key? Not to put too much on a surface. However, even the most formal of living rooms, like this beautiful space by Kit Kemp, needs to be functional. This means making any coffee table styling impactful, but leaving plenty of space on the table top for you to put everything on it that you need.

21. Fill your home with house plants

'Indoor plants have never been so accessible, you can pick up a whole jungle of greenery that will instantly bring life to a drab corner,' advises designer Martin Brudnizki. 'Pot up all manner of vessels with bulbs or, if this isn't for you, simply treat yourself to seasonal fresh flowers in a pretty vase or jug.'

22. Style up a console like designers do

Discover how to style a console table and you'll find all your surfaces become magnets for decorative displays.

‘When styling a console, I typically aim for symmetry, whether that's accomplished with lamps, vases, or decorative objects,’ says Ashley DeLapp, founder and principal designer of Ashley DeLapp Interior Design. 

23. Always, always choose interesting lamps

Interior designer Penny Morrison's lamp design here is a great example of how you can use lighting to create pretty little vignettes.

'Get creative and upgrade your lampshades with something a bit more adventurous. I suppose that millinery would be an apt comparison, as shades are like hats for lamps,' says interior designer Martin Brudnizki. 'Whether you choose a pagoda, bell, scallop or empire-shaped shade, never forget the inside is almost as important as the outside as we often look up into lamps, and the cord should always be fabric-lined. Those small details can really make the difference.'

24. Work curves into a kitchen

Kitchens tend to be about sharp angles, so whenever you can, take the opportunity to add a softening curve. In this space by interior designer Irene Gunter, curves are part of the room's architecture; in including them at the top of the room, they also serve to draw the eye upwards, enhancing the feeling of space.

25. Maximize the 'fifth wall'

Ceiling ideas are often overlooked in home decor but we have seen designers embracing their power more and more in the past few months. 

By using mostly white for the walls and cabinets, this kitchen by Beata Heuman allows the details to come to the fore. In particular the glass ceiling shines here, literally elevating the room and adding interest through reflections, plus a real sense of more space.

'We approach the ceilings in key rooms such as hallways, living rooms, studies, dining rooms and cloakrooms, the same way as we approach the other surfaces,' says interior designer Elnaz Namaki. 'Start by thinking about the color, texture, reflection and finish already in the space.'

26. Build in a breakfast nook

Even small kitchens have space for breakfast nooks. The best are built-in to maximize a compact space, while designs that gather guests around a circular table are not just space-efficient but encourage socializing, too.

27. Frame a dining table with a feature wallpaper

Living room feature wall ideas are a regular home decor feature, but the breakfast-diner has yet to pick up on this design technique. However, it is a great way to add interest and layering to a space and to frame a dining table visually.

'Pick a motif and run with it – here, free-flowing lines are the main star of the show,' says Emma Thomas, Homes & Gardens' decorating editor.

28. Work soft furnishings into kitchens

Remember what we said about adding curves to kitchens above? Another way to soften these spaces is to add softer elements, too. Again, Irene Gunter has succeeded in creating a space that's both practical but also comfortable and visually inviting, too. And, yes, she's worked in curves, too.

29. Layer kitchen floors with rugs

Of course, rugs in living rooms are de rigueur, but what about as kitchen styling ideas? South Carolina-based interior designer and contributor to Homes & Gardens is a fan of layering kitchen rug ideas over hard surfaces to soften the hard surfaces, improve acoustics and add color and pattern.

30. Bring the outdoors in with botanical murals

Wall mural ideas are back with a bang, and the designs that are seeing the most traction are those that depict natural scenes. 

'Falling foliage is the look of the moment and a table decorated with a ruffled cloth enhances the wonderful, whimsical feel,' says Homes & Gardens' decorating editor Emma Thomas.

Aula wallcovering in Hummingbird, Romo.

31. Fall back in love with pink

Pink room ideas really are having a rebirth. No longer limited to bedrooms only, as in this beautiful space by Irene Gunter, they are finding their way into kitchens and living spaces, too.

'Pink is a wonderful pairing with taupe. Often dismissed as too feminine or childish, it can make a sophisticated statement,' says Natalia Miyar, director Natalia Miyar Atelier. 'There is something very comforting about it and the warm tones feel cozy on a chilly day.'

32. Highlight a bedroom alcove

Bedroom alcove ideas are a badly-kept home decor secret. Often overlooked they can be useful for storage or for deep bedside tables, but we love when interior designers have fun with them, such as in this bedroom by interior designer Martin Brudnizki.

33. Create grandeur with a super-sized headboard

If space is limited, too limited for space-hogging home decor ideas, there is a way to create impact in a bedroom, and that is with statement headboard ideas. Trick one is to go sculptural, creating an eye-catching shape that will soften the harder angles of doorways and built-in storage. Trick two is to go for height: doing so will make the ceiling feel taller by drawing the eye upwards. Trick three: pick a stand-out fabric. 

34. Add eye-catching detail to doors

Flat-fronted doors can lack character, especially in modern homes with little architectural intricacy. However, a simple decorative application with paint can make them instantly more interesting. The key to success will be consistency across an entire story, and keeping the door's design as pared-back as possible.

35. Design bespoke cornicing for a unique look

'We recently designed a bespoke bobbin cornice for our childrens' bedrooms and it just adds a beautiful layer of detailing to the decor, like a trim on a curtain or a sassy belt on an outfit,' says Sarah Spiteri, Homes & Gardens' Editorial Director.

Room by Studio Spiteri.

36. Paint doors a bold, contrasting color

This room by interior design agency Gunter & Co is all soft pinks and blues, which is why the imposition of a black paint on the French doors is so effective. 

'I love the clever use of contrast in this space,' says Jennifer Ebert, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (digital). 'It makes what might be traditionally considered a predominantly feminine space feel much more gender neutral. This aside, the restraint shown in only introducing black in a limited area is very elegant.'

37. Use a 'putty' color band to create a grounded feel

'I love the mix of texture, such as bamboo and rattan, pattern and color in this room and the way the antique palette on the wall pulls the tones together and injects an eclectic touch,' says H&G's Houses Editor Vivienne Ayers.  

‘The house was built in 1850, around the time of London’s Great Exhibition, with its emphasis on cultural and decorative richness,’ says Caitlin Nicol of Kitesgrove. ‘We took our cue from that, sourcing furniture and fabrics that introduce a global flavour, along with a sense of comfort and warmth.’

38. Use wallpaper borders to create an element of surprise

'An affordable and quick interior update is adding a colorful wallpaper border around a window, doorway or furniture to help bring new life into a space,' says Jo Bailey, Homes & Gardens' Deputy Editor (Print), who is a fan of this space by Susie Atkinson. 

'Borders have been used for many years to elevate the simplest of rooms, adding detail and delight in an easy affordable way. They are less of a commitment than wallpapering the whole room but still bring color and interest to walls adding an accent to contrast or compliment a room. The possibilities with them are endless,' says Susie. 

'I tend to use them around skirting boards and doorways for a more classical feel or to create panels for walls, under the tread of a staircase and even applied to furniture for something more contemporary or dimensional.' 

39. Install wood panelling for a sophisticated feel

'Stephanie Dunning of Dunning & Everard wasn't afraid to create a contemporary feel in a period house with this modern study, and the practical yet sleek and smart storage unit works particularly well here,' says House Editor Vivienne Ayers. 

'The contemporary-style bespoke storage was specifically designed with shelves and drawers large enough to store work equipment, and was chosen because it was completely different to the fabric of the building. Bespoke joinery is a complete game changer when really well done,' says Stephanie.

40. Learn how to style bookshelves

'My favorite home decor idea is color-coordinating books on my bookshelf and open shelving,' says Homes & Gardens' News Editor Megan Slack. 'I love bookshelf ideas that play with the colors of book spines, allowing you to design a home library that makes a statement in any style of room – whether you’re working with a large office unit, a bespoke built-in, or a simple open-shelf in your bedroom. These colors are subtle enough to add just the right amount of color to a minimalist space. However, at the same time, they are vibrant enough to demand attention if you’re experimenting with a more maximalist aesthetic.

'They bring a sense of individuality and personal style to spaces of all sizes – and every type of scheme – and it’s my favorite way to make a room feel like home instantly.'

41. Take exuberant design into bathrooms

'Bring a sense of grandeur to your bathroom with a scenic statement wall,' says Emma Thomas, Homes & Gardens' decorating editor. 'This wallpaper panel by Pierre Frey echoes the traditional Portuguese azulejo tilework found in the palaces of Sintra, Lisbon and Porto.'

42. Never neglect a powder room

Beautiful powder room wall decor is the easiest way to make these small spaces feel loved and curated. Ensure light fittings and artwork are chosen to complement the intricacy of the wallcovering, and choose them with the same eye for detail as in a living room. 

43. Make staircases more than just thoroughfares

'My favorite home decor idea is a staircase gallery wall,' says H&G Content Editor Rachel Crow. 'Staircases are so often overlooked, neglected and left bare – often they are large expanses of wall begging to be accessorized. Gallery wall ideas can elevate your staircase to an area where people want to pause and admire. 

'You can break the rules when displaying art and images on a staircase gallery, too. Use the natural incline to your advantage to play with scale and hang pictures of differing shapes and sizes successfully. 

'Try theming your staircase gallery wall, such as featuring black and white photography in sleek black frames. Or choose a variety of artworks and imagery.'

'Create an eclectic display by mixing and matching different frames,' advises Henriette Von Stockhausen, founder of VSP Interiors.

44. Create a display of artefacts against a dramatic backdrop

If you have a collection of favorite pieces, gathering them together can make for an impactful home decor ideas. You only have to look at Gwyneth Paltrow's china display to see how effective it can be. 

Key to creating a display is finding the right backdrop, and the more dramatic the color, the more successful the effect. We love the use of the bold yellow above.

'Sometimes you need a deeper golden color with more clout as some yellows can be too grey, too flat or just too primary,' says Edward Bulmer, interior designer and founder, Edward Bulmer Natural Paint. 'Earthy tobacco shades will work in any room you want to feel warm and intriguing; it is a serious color, elegant and sophisticated, which creates a fabulous backdrop to artwork and antiques, and works in a variety of spaces.'

45. Decorate a front door with a wreath

There is a wreath for every season, but hanging one on your door does more than just signal a change in the weather, it shows just how loved and curated your home is, and is a promise of what's beyond the front door. Plus, of course, it's one of the easiest home decor ideas you can indulge in.

46. Set the perfect scene with outdoor lighting

Bringing interior design tricks into your backyard is a home decor must, with gorgeous outdoor lighting ideas a great way to decorate a garden, and to extend its use into the evening. 

'This entire setup by The Fox Group is a dream, but I especially love the way the bistro lights are strung over the pool, so the water reflects them at night,' says Homes & Gardens' Executive Editor Kaitlin Madden.

47. Decorate an outdoor space like one indoors

Outdoor living room ideas and outdoor dining ideas should be no exception to home decor rules, and while you might not introduce every aspect of interior design to your exterior, there are a number of elements that can work really successfully. 

One is the color of your boundaries, whether walls or fences: paint these a dark color and they will visually recede, while providing a beautiful backdrop for planting. And, of course, there's no reason not to adorn walls with beautifully styled shelves, too.

What are the easiest home decor ideas?

The easiest home decor ideas are all about paint. Using adventurous, subtle or bold paint ideas to pick out accent colors, to tie open-plan spaces together and even to create a color thread from one room to another is a simple technique for boosting your home decor.

How can I decorate my home on a low budget?

Decorating a home on a budget is best done with paint. Paint tricks are, comparably, in expensive but can be seriously transformative. They needn't just be used to paint walls; you can revamp furniture and even flooring with paint. For anyone looking for budget living room makeover ideas, it's worth knowing that even a small detail, such as a painted door frame, can boost your space, with very little spend.

Love RH living room ideas but not sure how to get there? Too often living rooms become one of two things – either a dumping ground for misfit furnishings or half-baked design ideas that never quite hit the form and function mark. But these central gathering places are vital to family life and need to be as versatile as they are aesthetically pleasing. Sounds like a job for the pros. 

Through the discerning design lens of RH – a brand well known for its one-stop-shop approach to a beautiful, well-designed living room ideas – we asked top designers to dish their dos for a successful living room space. Let the gathering begin!

RH living room ideas

RH living rooms have a distinct look but above all they are designed to suit smart and elegant but relaxed spaces. They suit every purpose, from formal living rooms to family rooms, and can be adapted to suit your home's style. Here, we speak to designers who love to use RH for their living room styling. 

1. Invest in comfort and quality

'To me, Restoration Hardware living room pieces instantly communicate comfort and quality,' shares Toronto-based interior designer Anne Hepfer. 'I love their Belgian linens and general rustic-modern feel, especially for houses set in nature.' 

Citing the brand’s quality and convenience, Hepfer confirms that 'RH has it all – we source lighting, hardware, furnishings and accessories at one location and know that we’re delivering timeless, well-made pieces.' 

Setting a tone of togetherness, RH makes the goal of cohesion easy to corral. Hepfer adds, 'I love designing living rooms because they’re one of the most used spaces in a home, not to mention where the family congregates and makes memories.'

2. Create an experiential space

Senior designer of Ontario-based design firm Aspen & Ivy, Ria DaCosta explains that she loves the inherent creative freedom that follows designing a living room.

'Unlike dining rooms or bedrooms which both require specific types of furnishings like tables and beds,' she says, 'living rooms, on the other hand, can look vastly different from one project to the next – from furniture styles to layout configuration and everything in between.' 

Echoing those bold sentiments, Hepfer weighs in, explaining, 'My goal is to make a space experiential through a concept and feeling.' Who doesn’t love an experiential space that the whole family can enjoy? 

3. Follow the floorplan

When it comes to devising a thoughtful living room layout, allow function to lead the way and form will follow suit. 

'A living room is a space in the house that requires equal parts comfort and beauty,' explains Houston-based designer Katie Davis. 'I like being able to play with upholstery and patterns and create unique pieces that are comfortable first, but also pretty.' 

New York-based interior designer Cara Woodhouse calls for spatial considerations when she’s plotting out a space. 'Make sure you have several areas to move around even if it's just one room,' she states. 'Your guests and family need multiple paths to flow comfortably in and out of the space.'

4. Sofa or sectional?

When it comes to living room sofa ideas, what do you choose? 'For me this decision comes down to two factors: What are the functional requirements of the space, and what is the client’s preference?' questions DaCosta, answering that 'sofas tend to lend themselves toward being more conversational and often more formal versus sectionals which, while they also invite conversation, tend to lend more to lounging and relaxing and thus can be used as more informal pieces.' 

Hepfer firmly states, 'For a comfortable, casual room, sectional living room ideas are the answer – think movie nights with the kids and pets, or morning coffee with a crossword. And, for a more polished and elegant vibe, sofas are the solution.' 

Davis adds, 'I prefer the living room to have a mix of sofas and chairs to help spur conversation.'

5. Design with wellness in mind

Going beyond aesthetics, New York-based designer Laurence Carr takes a holistic approach to the living room, especially when considering living room curtain ideas.

'Designing with wellness top of mind helps inform every choice I make,' she shares. 'Whenever possible, I include plenty of natural light, and draw attention to the windows, which not only let sunlight in, but give a biophilic quality to a living space by blurring the lines between the indoors and out.'

6. Ensure your living room is versatile

Laetitia Laurent, principal designer of South Florida-based firm Laure Nell Interiors, breaks down the importance of versatility that neutral living room ideas can provide.

'A living room needs to be versatile and engaging – always leading its guests on a beautiful design journey,' she muses. 

Laurent often turns to RH living room ideas for inspiration, stating, 'I love how grounded the pieces feel. They are neutral without feeling boring, so they provide the perfect base palette to so many design styles.' 

An aesthetic that’s particularly appealing to this Parisian native, 'depending on what other elements you pair the room with, you can take it from a modern Californian relaxed vibe all the way to a Parisian gilded glam vibe.'

The key is to leave a space open for growth and reinvention.  

7. Create a focal point

'I would say the main consideration when selecting the right rug is the size,' states DaCosta. 'People often select rugs that are too small, so the trick is to ensure that all of the furniture pieces in the space are entirely or at least halfway on the rug – this helps to ground the room and keeps everything well proportioned.' 

But when it comes to layering living room rug ideas she’s not a proponent, 'I rarely layer rugs and prefer to keep it simple with just one, but do make sure however that you have a good thick rug pad both for comfort and to preserve the longevity of your rug.' 

Davis shares DaCosta’s keep-it-simple mantra, but adds, 'Layering in interior design is nice if you have a large space that needs a base, or if you’ve sourced an antique rug that’s on the smaller side. 

Hepfer continues, 'Using a variety of different rug materials and sizes will help the room feel blended and warm.'

8. Make a feature of the coffee table

Coffee table decor ideas will boost your Restoration Hardware living room styling. 

'Good coffee table books are a must,' states Laurent. 'They give the space personality and you learn a lot about who lives there – I love coordinating them with the color palette of the room, blending content and form.' 

Houston-based designer Nina Magon seconds this coffee table styling notion, expounding upon their wide range of options and versatility make them a prime decor element for any space. 'They can be simple yet inherently stylish,' she explains, 'and great conversation starters to showcase the homeowner's personal interests.' 

9. Ensure your living room is fit for purpose

When it comes to the durability of a living room, Laurent gets into character. 'I imagine hosting a party which informs performance fabrics to withstand spills and a beautiful side table to sit your drink down,' she says. 'Following that idea of a motion picture, I’ll imagine the homeowners’ lounging as a family so the fabric needs to feel soft and inviting.'

10. Mix materials for interest

'Material mixing is so important,' states Woodhouse. 'It's all about layering and one way to do that is by mixing different materials and textures in a space – for example, you can do a cotton twill sofa with velvet pillows and it creates a mix of contrasting textures that I love.' 

Davis notes, 'We like integrating upholstered items with woven pieces, with antiques – mixing textures and materials adds soul to a space.'

What kind of style is a RH living room?

A RH living room, just like an RH bedroom is usually comfortable and lived-in looking, while retaining an elegant air. Laetitia Laurent, principal designer of South Florida-based firm Laure Nell Interiors explains that 'the pandemic and the need to rest has brought a desire for a variety of tactile experiences. In your living room, you’re going to crave a crisp linen for its clean effect but it’s also nice to pair it with a nubby boucle or a soft chenille for that loungy, cozy vibe.' 

What is the best RH living room furniture?

Senior designer of Ontario-based design firm Aspen & Ivy, Ria DaCosta shares her love of a RH living room classic: the French Contemporary Coffee Table. 'Its simple design lends itself well to many different design styles, and I love the range of finishes it comes in giving it a unique look every time. I’m also a sucker for a functional coffee table so the fact that it has a bottom shelf is a huge win!'

While most of us have a living room coffee table, how many of us can really say that we have spent time curating it? Yet this most often overlooked focal point in arguably the most important room in the house can leave a lasting impression on the space in general, and on our guests. 

So imagine our delight last week, while researching new coffee table decor ideas, when we came across the latest trend to have crept into celebrity homes (and, of course, their Instagram accounts): coffee table book stacking. 

Thanks largely to interior decorators' long-standing love affair with it, book stacking isn't a new coffee table styling idea. Neither is displaying our prized books, which predates the arrival of coffee in Europe; back in the late 1500s, ‘books to lay in the parlor window’ made them a popular accessory to interior design. 

So why is stacking books on tables catching on again?

'Stacking gorgeous coffee table books looks beautiful, and it will of course encourage you and your family to pick them up for a casual a browse in a way that stashing them away them on a shelf or in another room just doesn't,' says Lucy Searle, Editor in Chief of Homes & Gardens. 'A stack of books can also provide inspiration for a talking point, whether with your kids or guests. But, for me, they are also the post-pandemic equivalent of the curated video call background: decorating with books on a coffee table provides a highly edited projection of your personal interests.' 

‘Coffee books allow you to subtly showcase your interests or perhaps not so subtle way,’ says designer Martin Kemp, founder of Martin Kemp Design. ‘Similarly, you can show off your great taste and style with the right book selection. Signed books and limited editions are collector's items, linking art to book collections.’

With celebrities such as Cindy Crawford (fashion photography), Miranda Kerr (Vanity Fair Portaits),and Tish Cyrus (The Best of Punk Magazine, among others) adorning their coffee tables with stacks of book, it is clear that this timeless interior design trend is one that transcends design styles and oozes casual sophistication.

‘Beautiful coffee table books are interior design elements just like vases, blankets or sofa cushions while telling about the decorator's interests,’ Finnish designer and home styler, Johanna Lehmuskallio explains, ‘they bring color and individual style to the interior.’ 

Here, designers discuss why they love stacks of coffee table books, and how implement this timeless trend in your living room ideas.  

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

To stack books on a coffee table, do as you would when styling a bookcase, stacking smaller books on top of larger books to create a rough triangular shape. 

For a square or rectangle coffee table, stack books in one or all of the four corners. When using books across the table, avoid any other decor pieces to keep the trend looking clean. 

‘Well-considered book selections can add a layer of dressing that enhances the interiors by tying colors and themes throughout the room,’ adds Martin Kemp. ‘Resting an open book in a book stand on a key double-page spread creates a mini artwork in itself.’

How many coffee table books should you stack?

'I would start with three and work up to five or seven. Always work with odd numbers of books,' says Lucy Searle, 'which is more visually pleasing than even numbers.'

Should coffee table books be the same size?

Using books that are different sizes allows you to see what is underneath and offers depth and dimension to the stack. Consider incorporating the occasional magazine in line with the color palette for a thinner addition that can also be regularly changed out. 

'Coffee table book stacks are much more interesting when they are different sizes so they can be stacked so that all the titles are visible. If they are the same size, have the spines pointing out towards the couch so you can easily see which book is which,' says Lucy Searle. 'And though large books create visual impact, I would suggest stacking up books simply because you love them.' 

How do you arrange books on a round table?

If you have a circular coffee table, consider the space to be a triangle, leaving you with three ‘corners’ to style. Add coffee table books to one or all three of these ‘corners’ for an extravagant display.

Including items such as trays, small sculptural pieces, or candles and personal touches will allow you to flatter the shape of the table more, and make the display more characterful.

‘A few large coffee table books with a pretty accessory on top and fresh flowers is an easy and inexpensive way to dress up a coffee table,’ suggests Seyie Putsure of Seyie Design. ‘When putting these final touches together, I make sure that the colors of everything work well together and accent colors are introduced through more than one item.’

Why is it important to have a coffee table book? 

It is important to have coffee table books to help express your personality through your design. By displaying books related to topics or hobbies you are interested in you can subtly share your passions with guests. What’s more, coffee table books can act as great conversational pieces, allowing you to demonstrate your knowledge, subtly show off a collector's piece, or introduce a friend or family member to a new interest. 

They also act as functional decor items and so fit into almost all design styles from maximalist havens to sleek minimalist sanctuaries.