The One 'Secret' Interior Designers Use to Instantly Elevate a Room – Why the Humble Decorative Tray is a Game-Changer

Decorative trays have become one of the most useful styling pieces you can own. They bring order to surfaces, give objects a sense of place, and help a room feel finished rather than cluttered. Whether used on a coffee table, console, or bedside, a tray instantly turns everyday items into a considered arrangement.

As interest in coffee table styling ideas grows, trays are increasingly seen as the foundation of a well-styled surface. They create structure, grouping books, candles, and decorative objects in a way that feels intentional and easy to update. Instead of constantly rearranging a room, a tray allows you to refresh a space quickly while keeping everything visually balanced.

More than just practical, a good tray plays a central role in how a room comes together. The right material, shape, or finish can add contrast, texture, or warmth, acting as an anchor for the rest of your decor. These are the decorative trays worth investing in now, as they are one of the simplest ways to elevate how a space looks and functions.

When it comes to coffee table decor ideas, the goal is to create an arrangement that feels personal and practical. Focus on items you genuinely use and enjoy, such as a stack of favorite books, a candle you light often, or a small bowl for everyday essentials. Grouping these objects on a decorative tray helps them feel intentional while still reflecting your personality. Mixing textures, shapes, and heights can turn everyday items into a visually interesting and eclectic display. This approach keeps your coffee table functional while giving it character and warmth.

Decorative trays aren’t just about organisation; they’re about composition. I use them to establish a visual pause within a space, especially on large or open surfaces' explains interior designer and owner of Davis Interiors, Jennifer Davis.

'The tray acts as negative space control, allowing the eye to rest while still feeling intentional. Scale is critical here: a tray should feel generous. When in doubt, go larger; it reads more architectural and less decorative. Material choice matters more than people realise. Trays with subtle weight - stone, wood, leather, woven, antiqued metal, keep it from feeling flimsy or trend-driven.'

'Trays introduce hierarchy,' she continues. 'They tell the eye what’s important and what belongs together, which is why they’re such a powerful tool in making a home feel designed rather than decorated. Instead of styling across the entire surface, you’re editing the moment down to one intentional vignette; this is what prevents over-styling.'

'Another insider trick: leave part of the tray empty. Negative space within the tray is just as important as what you place inside it. That breathing room signals confidence and restraint, which is what separates a professionally styled space from one that feels overly done,' she adds.'

Decorative Trays Are Transforming Coffee Tables

Beyond choosing the right tray, don’t be afraid to update your arrangement seasonally or for special occasions. Small touches like a sprig of greenery, a seasonal candle, or a carefully chosen ornament can instantly refresh a table and keep it feeling dynamic. Decorative trays aren’t just containers, they’re a way to experiment with textures, colors, and personal touches.