How to Style Shelves and Coffee Tables Like a Designer

A beautifully styled shelf or coffee table has the power to make a room feel complete, curated, and lived-in. It’s that finishing layer that adds soul and personality to a space. But styling can also feel intimidating—how do you strike the right balance between effortless and intentional?

Here are some of my favorite designer tips to help you get it right.

1. Start with a Blank Slate

Clear everything off. Whether it’s a bookshelf, open built-in, or coffee table, starting fresh allows you to see the architecture of the piece and work with its natural rhythm.

2. Think in Layers

Begin with foundational items: books, trays, and boxes. These pieces help ground the arrangement and create structure. Then layer in sculptural elements, ceramics, or framed art to add depth and height.

3. Vary Heights and Textures

Contrast is key. Mix tall and short, smooth and rough, shiny and matte. A stack of books with a small vase or object on top gives just enough polish without feeling overdone.

4. Use Books as Your Base

Books are the unsung hero of styling. Choose ones that speak to your interests and aesthetic. Stack them horizontally or lean them vertically to create moments of visual pause and rhythm.

5. Add Something Personal

This is where the space becomes yours. A framed family photo, a piece of coral from a beach trip, or an heirloom object brings meaning and authenticity.

6. Edit as You Go

Step back and assess. Does anything feel too crowded? Is your color palette cohesive? Styling is as much about restraint as it is about creativity.

7. Style Coffee Tables with Purpose

Divide the surface into zones: a stack of books with a small dish, a floral arrangement or candle, and a tray to corral smaller objects. This keeps the surface visually balanced but functional.

8. Let it Breathe

Negative space is your friend. Resist the urge to fill every inch. Well-styled spaces have room to breathe.

Final Thought:

Styling should feel like a reflection of your personality, not a set of rules to follow.

When in doubt, edit, then add something you love. That’s where the magic happens.

Need help pulling it all together? Let's make your space feel layered, intentional, and uniquely you.