The biggest mistake I see people make when styling a coffee table is choosing accessories that are simply too small.

When every piece is petite, it can feel as though the accessories are floating on the surface rather than forming one beautifully considered display. The secret is to create a strong foundation, introduce different heights and leave enough breathing space for each piece to be appreciated.

As the founder of The Suffolk Nest, I have styled planty of different coffee tables for our photography, videos and my own home. These are the simple principles I return to every time.

Begin with a generously sized styling tray

I nearly always begin with a decorative tray. It gives the entire arrangement a defined foundation and brings separate objects together so they feel like one intentional display.

Do not be afraid to choose a larger tray. An oversized design creates a stronger sense of proportion, particularly on a generous coffee table, footstool or ottoman. Going too small can make everything placed on top feel disconnected.

Our new styling trays were designed with this in mind. They provide a beautiful base for layering books, foliage, candles and personal objects, while adding texture and interest in their own right.

Before choosing your tray, look at the overall size and shape of your table. The tray should feel generous without overwhelming the surface. You still want to see some of the table around it, as this creates a sense of balance.

Add coffee table books for height

Next, I like to layer in one or two coffee table books. Books are one of the easiest ways to introduce height and create different levels within your display.

Stack them neatly and use them as a platform for a smaller accessory, such as a decorative object, candle or little collected piece. This prevents smaller items from getting lost and gives them greater presence.

Choose books that reflect your interests or complement the colours in your room. Interiors, gardens, travel and fashion books all work beautifully and help your coffee table feel personal rather than overly styled.

Introduce something organic

Every coffee table arrangement benefits from something organic. I love adding a small pot filled with faux foliage or a simple seasonal arrangement to soften the harder surfaces of the tray, books and table.

The important thing is to consider the sightline across the room. Avoid anything so tall or full that it obstructs conversation or blocks your view. A compact arrangement, low bowl or gently spreading foliage will bring life and movement to the display without becoming impractical.

Faux foliage is particularly useful here because it maintains its shape and colour with very little effort. You can also update it throughout the year to reflect the season.

Vary the height of your accessories

One of the simplest interior styling principles is to include something tall, something medium and something low.

Varying the height draws your eye around the arrangement and stops everything from appearing flat. I might use a pair of slim candlesticks for height, a pot of foliage at the middle level and a decorative box or bowl lower down.

Try not to make every object the same size or weight. The contrast between taller, slimmer pieces and lower, wider shapes creates depth and makes the finished arrangement much more interesting.

Combine beautiful objects with practical pieces

A coffee table still needs to work for everyday life, so I always include something functional as well as decorative.

A beautiful box can discreetly store remote controls, matches or other small items that often create visual clutter. A bowl can hold coasters, while a tray keeps everything contained and makes it easier to clear the table when needed.

I also love including something personal or collected. It could be an object found on your travels, a favourite candle or a piece with a story behind it. These details are what give a room character and make it feel like your home.

Leave room for the arrangement to breathe

Finally, resist the temptation to fill every available gap.

Leaving a little space around your objects allows each one to stand out. It also helps the overall arrangement feel calm and considered rather than cluttered.

Once you have finished styling, take a step back and look at the table as a whole. Check that the scale feels right, that the heights vary and that the display looks balanced from different angles. If something feels busy, remove one piece and look again. Often, that small edit is all it needs.

The best coffee table styling should feel polished but still relaxed. Begin with a generously sized styling tray, build height with books, add something organic and finish with a thoughtful mixture of personal and practical pieces.

Most importantly, choose objects that you genuinely love. That is what will make your home feel beautifully styled and entirely your own.

Shop our new styling trays and discover a simple foundation for creating a coffee table display that feels balanced, elegant and considered.