The Art of Tabletop Decor: Tips for decorating a Coffee Table with Balance, Style, and Function

Effortless Coffee Table Decor to Enhance Your Space—Without the Chaos

How Much Is Too Much?

From maximalist to minimalist, there’s a fine line between styling a space tastefully and going overboard—where it looks cluttered, like everything but the kitchen sink was thrown in. A mix of random items that serve no purpose can make a space feel chaotic, while having nothing at all can make it feel cold and utilitarian—more like an office than a home.

So what’s the right balance? Since we all have different styles and perspectives, the key is finding a middle ground that looks curated, not crowded.

Just like with everything else, I took a deep dive to find the simplest rules with the biggest impact. A few flexible (which I love!) guidelines kept popping up when it comes to tabletop decor tips and styling ideas. And of course, I’m going to share!

Ease of Cleaning – If your décor makes dusting a chore because you have to move a lot of things around just to wipe the surface, it’s a sign that you may have too much. Table decor should be stylish but practical. If it starts getting too tedious to clean, it’s time to get rid of a few things.

Balance Is Everything – Balance is key to just about anything visual, and it’s no different in this case. Think of it as creating a lovely conversation between the pieces rather than letting them compete for attention.

• Spread things out – Don’t pile everything on one side. Mix up heights and shapes so the space feels even.

• Create a smooth transition – If you have a tall vase, pair it with something lower, like a tray or a couple of books, to connect the pieces naturally.

• Use odd numbers – Groups of 3 or 5 just look better. Try a vase, a candle, and a small decorative object to keep things interesting without overloading the space.

• Take a step back – If one side feels heavier, shift things around until it looks right.

Think of your décor as having a conversation—not a shouting match. Everything should work together without fighting for attention.

The “Can You Put Down a Coffee Cup?" Rule – A good rule of thumb: if you struggle to place a cup of coffee or a book on the table without shifting things around, it’s too crowded and it’s time to edit. Aim for 3-5 key pieces—like a tray, a candle, a small plant, and a decorative object. Enough to add interest, but not so much that it takes over the surface. Less, but intentional, always wins - Instead of filling every inch, leave breathing room so each piece stands out. Make your favorite piece the star of the show—with a well-chosen supporting cast.

But after all that, at the end of the day, don’t forget to be you and do what makes you happy. No rule about your home should be set in stone—they’re just here to give a little boost to what you love. That’s all.

Hope this helps! What’s your biggest struggle with surface décor? Let me know in the comments.