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
A little greenery goes a long way and the right garland goes even farther... I’m not decorating this year, but putting this together reminded me how much joy the little things bring.
If Christmas snuck up on you (same), this is your sign: you don’t need a full makeover to make your home feel festive. A strand of good garland, a ribbon moment, and a few twinkly lights.
Comment ‘HOLIDAY’ and I’ll send over our favorite garlands, plus the prettiest bows + ribbons to finish the look!
In my 40s, I was a stay-at-home mom, my husband had lost his job, and we were having to sell the home we’d poured our hearts into. 
Over the years, I’d designed and renovated our own spaces, even worked with an architect on our most ambitious project yet, and helped friends here and there. But never thought it could be my career.
Then our realtor asked, “Who designed this?” When I said it was me, she said: “Allison… why aren’t you doing this for a living?”
I didn’t have a degree or a portfolio… just grit, a dream I didn’t know I was holding, and three kids watching me start over. So I took the leap and launched Allison Clouser Interiors.
That leap became Clouz Houz—projects across the country, virtual clients, offering full-service work in Oregon and (now!) middle Tennessee. 
Somehow, along the way, our work started getting noticed. A gift I still don’t take for granted.
If you’re at the edge of something scary, know this: you’re never too old, too late, or too far behind.
You can start fresh.
You can build the life you’ve dreamed of.
You can surprise yourself.
All the tips and deets I shared on the blog yesterday… comment ‘BLOG’ and I’ll send you there.
I grew up with a mom that was Martha 2.0 and I inherited that same love for effortless, elevated hosting.
The truth? You don’t need to be perfect. A few simple ingredients, a little intention, and the people you love is all it takes to make memories that last a lifetime.
The Clouz Houz philosophy has always been simple: soul over perfection. We design homes that look lived-in, loved, and layered. Never sterile, never one-note.
Our process is rooted in mixing: mixing texture, mixing eras, mixing personal history with sculptural, collected pieces that bring depth and personality to a room.
When you work with us, you’re not getting a look….. you’re getting a story - one that grows with you.
If your home feels a little too “flat” we can help you create a space that feels uniquely yours!
Share with someone you think may need to hear this!
All heart. All soul. Ready to transform our new home🤍
(Inspo images via Pinterest)