Central Table Decoration Ideas For Living Rooms

A creatively styled center table is the focal point of any living room. This essential piece sets the tone for your decor and brings visual interest to the space. With the right mix of decorative accents, you can transform your center table into a stylish display that complements your living room.

When designing your living room center table decor, focus on creating an inviting vignette that reflects your personal taste. The possibilities are endless, from vintage chic to modern minimalism. Read on for tips and inspiration to style your center table with flair.

Define the Purpose and Size of Your Center Table

Before decorating, consider the intended function of your center table. Is it strictly decorative or will it be used for drinking coffee and holding remotes? The size and placement should also suit your living room layout.

A general rule is to allow 18-24 inches of clearance around the edges of the center table. Coffee tables, usually 16-22 inches high, go in front of seating areas. Larger console tables can be placed behind a sofa or float in the center of the room.

Glass, wood, metal and stone surfaces like marble or slate all work beautifully. Just ensure it's proportional to your sofas and anchors the space without crowding. An oversized coffee table can make a smaller living room feel cramped.

Choosing the Right Table Height

The ideal coffee table height is based on the height of your sofa or chairs. When seated, you want around 10-12 inches of clearance between the tabletop and bottom of the seat cushion. This leaves enough space for comfortably resting your feet underneath.

For console tables behind a couch, the surface should be 1-2 inches above the sofa top. This allows decorative objects to be seen over the back of the couch.

Factor in Room Traffic Flow

A centered coffee table allows easy traffic flow around the perimeter of the living room. But a console table pushed against the back of a sofa creates dead space. Be sure to measure walkways to avoid tight squeezes.

In open concept spaces, floating a console table in the center of the room can help define sitting areas without blocking movement. Just be sure to allow ample clearance on all sides.

Choose a Style That Complements Your Decor

Match your center table decor to your living room's aesthetic for a pulled-together look. Here are some stylish options:

• Rustic: Natural elements like wood beads, antlers, and ceramic planters have an earthy feel.
• Modern: Focus on symmetry and simplicity. Display coffee table books and ceramic decor.
• Glam: Incorporate mirrored surfaces, metallic accents, and cut glass vases for sparkle.

Incorporate existing colors and patterns from throw pillows and rugs. Your center table decor does not have to match exactly but should feel cohesive.

Tips for Eclectic Decor Styles

If your living room features an eclectic mix of colors, patterns and eras, your center table decor can still tie everything together. Some tips:

• Repeat colors from the wall paint or furniture in your accessories.
• Choose a metallic finish like brass to contrast all the colors.
• Add sleek ceramics for an modern touch.

The key is to avoid clutter and only display your favorite cherished finds. Edit down to key accent pieces that speak to you.

Incorporate Greenery for Freshness

Plants instantly liven up a living room. Mini succulents, air plants, and flower arrangements add natural beauty to center tables. Consider these fresh options:

• Floral centerpiece: Gather blooms like peonies or roses for a pop of color.
• Wreaths: Hang eucalyptus, laurel or pine wreaths above your center table.
• Potted plants: Display succulents, herbs or orchids in planters or pots.

Add a living touch without cluttering the space. Change up greenery with the seasons for a refreshed look.

Choosing the Right Plants

When selecting plants, consider the light conditions of your living room. Low light plants like pothos, ZZ plants, and sansevieria tolerate low sun. Monitor soil moisture based on your plant's needs.

For flower arrangements, pick blooms that complement your decor palette. Opt for filler flowers like solidago and carnations to maximize volume.

Don't hesitate to use faux greenery if you don't have a green thumb. High quality silk plants add life without maintenance.

Use Candles and Lighting for Ambiance

Candles and lighting set the right mood for lounging. Create an inviting glow with these illuminating center table ideas:

• Clustered candles: Gather pillar and taper candles of varying heights for drama.
• Table lamp: Choose a sculptural lamp in an on-trend finish like brass.
• String lights: Drape delicate string lights overhead for a twinkling effect.

Don't forget to incorporate practical lighting like a table lamp to illuminate the living room. You can control the ambiance with dimmers and smart bulbs.

Candle Safety Tips

When decorating with candles, follow these precautions:

• Keep burning candles within sight and blow them out before leaving the room.
• Place candles on candlesticks or plates to catch dripping wax.
• Avoid placing candles near drafts or vents.
• Consider using flameless candles for added peace of mind.

By being cautious with wicks and flames, you can safely add candlelight ambiance to your living room.

Stack and Display Coffee Table Books

Coffee table books double as decor while adding height to your display. Consider these tips for styling:

• Stack horizontally or vertically in different sizes.
• Choose books that complement your decor style like interior design.
• Select one oversized book as the focal point.

Avoid clutter by keeping books neat and dust-jackets facing out. Rotate selections seasonally to keep your tabletop fresh.

Creative Ways to Display Books

Beyond traditional stacking and arranging, get creative with displaying books by:

• Placing a large book flat and using it as a tray for objects.
• Leaning books against each other like dominos to take up less surface area.
• Putting a few favorites into a woven basket.

Sometimes less is more - one or two artfully placed books can make more of an impact than a heaping stack.

Include Baskets and Trays for Storage

Trays and baskets keep remotes, coasters and other essentials corralled so surfaces stay tidy. Consider these storage solutions:

• Woven baskets for blankets or magazines.
• Metallic trays for display with decorative objects.
• Glass or wood trays to hold candles and accessories.

Neutral natural textures like jute, rattan and wood complement most aesthetics. Trays can also double as additional display surfaces.

Some other fun ways to neatly store items include:

• Repurposing a concrete planter as an umbrella stand.
• Using a vintage suitcase or crate for extra throw blankets.
• Placing essentials in a lidded woven basket or trunk.