.01 Which shape coffee table do you have?

.02 Start by placing down your books

.03 Add some visual interest

.05 Practicality matters

.04 Choose Tonal and Subdued Palate

First things first, let's take a look at the shape of your coffee table. For rectangular tables, divide the space into three-four equal quadrants. For circular, think in threes. 

Once you visualize the quadrants, try placing down your coffee table books. Smaller on top of larger books. create a bit of visual interest by having the book (or book stacks) facing different ways, this look is more casual and achieves the asymmetrical look we want.

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Now that you have the anchors in place, try adding some objects for visual interest. For example, adding a vase will create some height and dimension. Add seasonal flowers or greenery to bring some life into the space. Next, consider arranging other shorter items on top of the stacked book or alone (i.e. a ceramic bowl or a candle).

Make sure to not add anything too high as it may obstruct you or your guests view.

Of course, we would like our living spaces to be equally curated and be livable at all times... but that is not always practical, as we know. Aid life's happenings by placing a catch all tray for miscellaneous items. Having a space for them will alleviate the potential of a scattered mess.  

Make sure to add items that fall within the same color palate to ease up on the eyes and create effortless cohesion. Once achieved, you will have an effortless and elevated look - or as we call it, the sweet spot. 

Calming: choose earthy tones
Contrast: play around with darker pieces
Liven it Up: calls for brighter colors

We're after a tabletop that offers a seamless integration of functionality and aesthetic appeal, allowing life to unfold naturally while maintaining an elegant design.

If you found these tips useful, be sure to post your coffee table design on your social media and tag us @coastalinteriors_seattle

We would love to see what you came up with.




Images found on pinterest.