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A well-styled coffee table enhances your living room’s appeal. Professional home stagers know the dos and don’ts of styling coffee tables to make the whole space shine. Here, we’ll look at the 12 items they always avoid putting on coffee tables. Following these tips will help you create a space that feels polished, welcoming, and photo-ready.
1. Personal Photographs
While cherished, personal photos can distract potential buyers. Stagers suggest removing them to help others envision themselves in the space. Sticking to a more neutral approach allows potential buyers to imagine their own lives in the room.
2. Remote Controls
Remote controls are practical but can clutter the table. Leaving them out on the coffee table makes the space look messy and disrupts the overall aesthetic. Professional stagers suggest storing remotes in a drawer or a chic box to keep the coffee table looking sleek and organized.
3. Old Magazines and Newspapers
Stacks of old magazines or newspapers create a messy and disorganized feel. Aim for a clean, streamlined look, so avoid leaving outdated materials on display. Instead, one or two carefully selected books or a recent magazine are a better choice to maintain sophistication without clutter.
4. Large Candle Collections
A few candles can add warmth and charm, but too many can overwhelm a small surface like a coffee table. Excessive candles make the area feel cluttered and reduce the impact of the decor. Opt for just one or two statement candles to achieve a balanced, refined look.
A pair of colorful LED flame candles is as beautiful as it is safe –
5. Oversized Floral Arrangements
Floral arrangements add color and beauty, but oversized vases or large bouquets can make a coffee table look cramped. Use smaller, minimalist arrangements that add a pop of life without taking over the table. A simple, low-profile vase works wonders to keep the space feeling open and inviting.
6. Fragile or Valuable Items
Coffee tables are high-traffic surfaces that are frequently bumped or touched. Stagers know better than to put fragile items like delicate glass figurines or family heirlooms here. The goal is to create a beautiful, functional space without risking accidental damage to cherished pieces.
7. Children’s Toys and Pet Accessories
Toys and pet supplies, while important in day-to-day life, are not suitable for staging purposes. These items create a cluttered look that distracts from the overall design of the room. Professional stagers recommend storing these items out of sight to maintain a cohesive and sophisticated look.
8. Excessive Trinkets and Souvenirs
Small trinkets and souvenirs can easily make a coffee table look cluttered and chaotic. Go for a more curated approach, choosing just one or two decorative pieces that complement the room’s style. This way, the table looks sophisticated rather than overcrowded.
9. Food and Beverages
Leaving food or drinks on a coffee table during a home showing is a big no-no. Not only can food create a messy appearance, but it also risks creating unpleasant smells or attracting pests. Professional stagers stick to non-perishable decor elements to keep the space looking clean and fresh.
If you enjoy eating in front of the TV, invest in a pair of foldable TV dinner tray tables. They’re easy to store when not in use, and can keep your coffee table clutter-free.
10. Electronic Devices
Laptops, tablets, and other gadgets can make a coffee table look chaotic and uninviting. Keep in mind the goal is to create a space that feels open and easy to envision living in. Keeping electronics out of sight helps maintain a more neutral, universally appealing look.
11. Bills and Paperwork
Stacks of paperwork and bills are a sure way to make a coffee table look cluttered. Avoid leaving paperwork in sight because it takes away from the relaxing, welcoming atmosphere a coffee table should create. Instead, they opt for a clean table with only a few well-chosen decorative items.
12. Seasonal Decorations
Seasonal decor, such as holiday-themed figurines or decorations, can make a space feel dated or overly specific. Professional stagers recommend sticking to neutral decor that works year-round, allowing viewers to imagine the space in any season and avoiding any sense of clutter or mismatched themes.
Final Thoughts: Embrace Simplicity and Elegance
A thoughtfully styled coffee table enhances your living room’s charm. By avoiding the common coffee table mistakes we have discussed, you can create a living room that feels both inviting and elegantly put together. Remember, less is often more when it comes to decor—keeping it simple, uncluttered, and easy on the eyes is key.
