How to Decorate a Coffee Table: Think in Thirds for Effortless Style

When it comes to home decor, some of the trickiest spaces to style are often the simplest — like your coffee table.
It might seem like just a surface to toss a magazine or remote onto, but with the right approach, your coffee table can become the beautiful centerpiece of your living room.

I just love my coffee table — it’s about six feet long, and honestly, I'm about the same size! That's why when I decorate it, I think of the surface in thirds.
It’s an easy, foolproof method for making any table, no matter the size, look styled, polished, and thoughtfully designed.

At Rooms by Roma, we’re all about approachable decorating that feels effortless yet elevated. Here’s how you can use the "rule of thirds" to style your coffee table like a pro.

1. Understand the Size and Scale of Your Table

Before you start piling on trays, candles, and books, step back and look at your table.
Is it small and round? Long and rectangular like mine?

For a six-foot coffee table (or any elongated surface), it’s helpful to think about the space as three sections.
This method keeps the table balanced, organized, and visually interesting without looking overcrowded.

Design Tip:
Always consider proportions. Your decor pieces should complement the size of the table — not overwhelm it or feel too tiny.

2. Break It Down: The Rule of Thirds

Here’s the trick:
Imagine your coffee table divided into three equal parts — left, center, and right. Each section gets its own little moment to shine.

• Section 1: Place something low and wide, like a stylish stack of coffee table books or a rectangular tray.

• Section 2: Add height with a vase, sculpture, or candle arrangement in the middle.

• Section 3: Keep it dynamic with a bowl, decorative box, or small plant.

By thinking in thirds, you create rhythm and movement across the table, which draws the eye naturally from one side to the other.

3. Mix Heights, Textures, and Shapes

A flat table full of similar-sized items can look... well, flat.
To make your coffee table pop, mix it up:

• Layer a ceramic bowl next to a sleek glass vase.

• Stack smooth books under a rough woven tray.

• Pair a rounded candle holder with a tall, skinny sculpture.

Texture + Shape + Height = Instant Visual Interest.
At Rooms by Roma, we love combining organic textures like wood and linen with polished accents like marble and brass for a truly curated look.

4. Don’t Overcrowd — Negative Space Is Your Friend

One of the biggest mistakes people make when decorating a coffee table is overloading it.
Every inch doesn’t need to be covered!
Leave breathing room around your objects to create a more open, inviting feel.

Negative space actually enhances the beauty of the items you carefully chose.

Pro Styling Tip:
After decorating, step back. If something feels crowded or chaotic, remove one item from each section and see how it feels. Less is often more.

5. Switch It Up Seasonally

The best part about coffee table styling?
It’s easy to refresh with the seasons!

• In spring, add fresh flowers and light, airy decor.

• In fall, bring in textured throws and warm-toned candles.

• During the holidays, a small festive centerpiece can work beautifully in the center third.

Decorating your coffee table in thirds gives you a flexible foundation that can evolve with your style and the seasons without a complete overhaul.

Final Thoughts: Think in Thirds and Style with Confidence

Decorating your coffee table doesn’t have to be complicated.
If you remember just one thing, let it be this:
Think of the surface in thirds.

This simple, powerful styling rule will make your table — and your whole living room — feel balanced, beautiful, and intentionally curated.
At Rooms by Roma, we believe that your home should reflect your personal style while staying functional, livable, and undeniably stylish.

✨ Want more effortless styling tips and decor inspiration? Book and Appointment