CLOUZ HOUZ DESIGN GUIDES - What’s your style?
TAKE THE QUIZ
Design

How to Style Your Coffee Table with Ease

A question I hear a lot is, “What should I put on my coffee table?” Well, here’s the deal: it’s all about what you like and how you use your space. Are you more into decorations, or do you prefer practical stuff you use every day? Maybe you’re all about games, books, or candles. Your coffee table is where the action happens – where people gather, chat, and relax. It’s your chance to let your style shine and maybe even start some cool conversations. There’s no right or wrong way to do it, but I’ll give you the lowdown Clouz Houz style – simple, chill, and totally inviting! So, let’s get into it and spruce up that coffee table, shall we?

Design: Clouz Houz | Photography: Zee Wendell

 

Source: Studio McGee

 

Source: Heidi Caillier

How to Style a Round Coffee Table

Alright, let’s break down how to style a round coffee table in a super simple way.

STEP 01:

Display items in a triangle, with three key areas to style.

STEP 02:

Pick something tall for one corner, like a vase with branches or flowers. It adds height and interest.

STEP 03:

In another corner, go for something lower, like a stack of books or a decorative box. It balances out the tall item.

STEP 04: 

In third corner, add a personal touch. Maybe a small sculpture or decorative objects that reflects your personality. Get creative!

Now, about those round tables – they’re cozy, right? With no sharp edges, they create a more intimate atmosphere in your living space. But because of those curves, you’ve got to be smart about how you style your table to ensure it looks balanced and cohesive.  By following this triangle approach, you’ll create a stylish and balanced look for your round coffee table. Easy, right? Now, let’s move on to styling a square one.


Source: Heidi Caillier
Design: Clouz Houz | Photography: Zee Wendell

How to Style a Square Coffee Table

Square tables are fantastic because they offer a more structured and defined look to your living space. Plus, they provide ample surface area for styling and functionality.

Pro tip: Here’s a trick I learned while styling a large scale square table in our old house — treat it like a grid. Imagine dividing your table into quadrants, creating designated spaces for each item you want to showcase.

STEP 01:

In one quadrant, you might place a stack of your favorite design books. They not only add visual interest, but also serve as a conversation starter for guests.

STEP 02:

Leave some empty space. This allows for flexibility and prevents overcrowding, giving your table a clean and balanced look. You can reserve this spot for a standout piece, whether it’s an architectural sculpture, a crystal accent, or a vase filled with fresh flowers from your garden.

The beauty of styling a square coffee table lies in its versatility. You have the freedom to play around with different arrangements and create a look that suits your personal style and aesthetic preferences.


Design: Clouz Houz | Photography: Zee Wendell

And hey, speaking of books, why not consider adding a new roundup of some of our favorites to your collection? They’re not only great for styling your table, but also offer endless inspiration and ideas for your home décor projects.

  1. The Garden Book
  2. Morning Noon Night: A Way of Living by Soho House
  3. John Derian Picture Book
  4. Architectural Digest at 100: A Century of Style
  5. This is Home: The Art of Simple Living

We hope you found these tips on how to style your coffee table both helpful and inspirational. Of course, if you have questions or need some ideas, we’re always here to help. And remember — have fun with it!

1

Taper Holders

Nordic Marble Taper Candle Holder in Wave Shape
2

Coffee Books

The Garden Book
3

Marble Bowls

Ruffled Marble Bowl
4

Pots & Vases

Artissance Large Vintage Oil Pot with Black Glaze
5

Large Scale Candles

Night Lily & Amber Oud
6

Woven Textures

Antonia Woven Vase
7

Decorative Objects

Calligraphy Brush
8

Sandstone Candles

Hand-Dipped Sandstone Taper Candle (Set of 12)
9

Trinket Boxes

Small Scallop Keepsake Box
10

Brass Accents

Anna Antique Brass Taper Holder
11

Elevated Classics

Green and White Marble Checkers Set
12

Organic Materials

Sandstone Dominos
13

Vintage Finds

Vintage Inspired Candle Snuffer
Join the Conversation

get inspired
#clouzhouz
follow along
@clouz_houz
In case you missed it — here are some of this month’s featured finds. Comment ‘SHOP’ and I’ll send you the link to access all of the items in one place. 
If you’re dreaming of a Nantucket-themed summer, this roundup has a little something special just for you: coastal charm, everyday ease, and timeless touches for home, wardrobe, and slow weekends ahead.
Share with a friend who’s already mentally checked into vacation mode!
The butterfly effect is wild, isn’t it?
Sometimes I think about how one hard moment—Derrick losing his job—led us here. To Bend in 2018. To starting Clouz Houz. To doing work that feels aligned with who we are and how we want to live.
If you’re new here, hi! I thought I’d share a few things about us 🐝
1. We moved to Bend from Portland in 2018—looking for space, peace, and a fresh start.
2. We’ve been flipping homes for over 20 years, but we didn’t turn it into a full-time business until just 3 years ago.
3. I’ve been designing homes for 15+ years—starting with friends, family, and our own renos. Now, we work with clients nationwide and it still feels surreal.
4. We’re country folk at heart. We believe in slow mornings, full plates, and building homes you can linger in.
5. We named Clouz Houz after a play on our last name—Clouser—growing up Derrick was “Clouz” by his friends.
6. I’m forever inspired by old houses, antique shops, and the idea that every room should tell a story.
7. And yes—Lucy, our golden retriever, is very much the real boss around here.
It’s been a winding path, but every step mattered. Comment below or just say hi if you’re new. I’d love to connect. 🤍
“Sorry can’t talk I’m renovating” - if you’re in the thick of it to (or about to be), our Design Guides were made for you.
Comment ‘PLAN’ to get our expert tips, designer recommendations, and thorough plan for designing a curated and cohesive home like a pro.
We made these digital guides for those of you who are needing some extra tools and tips in their back pocket as they start a project. We like to think of them as a blueprint to success! 
So if you are wanting a designer approved and curated space- we hope you check them out. xx
Save for later or take it now—comment QUIZ and we will send you the link to get designing?
We created a free 3-minute quiz to help you name your style and feel more confident in designing your home. It’s just 10 quick questions (some visual, some text), and you’ll get instant results that make everything more clear on what you even are attracted to.
Once you’ve got your style, we’ll show you how to bring it to life—down to the exact pieces and mood you’re going for.
Still dreaming up your space? This quiz is the 
perfect place to start.
Save this if you got ‘California Casual Cottage’ on our style quiz—or if you’re not quite sure what your interior vibe even is.
So these are the things that made it into my cart this May from our Edit… and I can honestly say, each of these items have become some of my new faves! Comment ‘MAY’ and I’ll send you the link to all these goodies so you can shop before they sell out again!
Yellow Sweater- I love the cut of this and perfect for throwing over your shoulders on the way out the door for that extra layer.
Mesh Ballet Flats- these could pretty much walk by themselves at this point. I wear them with jeans, skirts, dresses and relaxed trousers. I love them!
This balm has saved me in the afternoons when my skin needs a pick me up. I apply right over my make-up.
The apron that may actually make me want to start cooking again. Watch out Derrick, there’s a new chef in town. 🙂
A wall mounted soap dish that turned our shower into a little spa oasis. I love the delicate touch it adds in the most beautiful brass finish. Hang Eucalyptus from your shower head and voila- instant relaxation.
A chic champs cooler— or really any beverage of choice to keep cold alllll summer long. Perfect for travel too. 
Cutest new dish towels in a mossy green buffalo check that goes perfect in our little kitchen.
This error message is only visible to WordPress admins
There has been a problem with your Instagram Feed.