Revive Your Living Room Style With Brilliant Center Table Decorating Tips

The center table is often the focal point of a living room, shaping the overall style and aesthetic of the space. Whether your style leans more traditional or contemporary, there are endless ways to transform your center table into a stylish showpiece that complements your decor.

Follow these brilliant decorating tips to revive your living room style with an eye-catching, functional center table.

Choose the Right Table for Your Space

When selecting a center table, consider the size and layout of your living room. Look for a table that is proportional to your seating arrangement and doesn't obstruct movement around the room. The shape of the table can also impact the feel of the space--round and oval tables soften corners while square and rectangular tables anchor the room.

The material you choose also brings distinct style elements. Wood tables in finishes like oak, teak and mahogany add natural warmth. Metal and glass tables have a sleek, modern look. Incorporate handy storage space with a lift-top coffee table or a design with built-in drawers.

Incorporate Eye-Catching Centerpieces

Strategically chosen centerpieces are an easy way to add elegance and visual interest to your center table. A statement-making sculpture or vase full of fresh blooms instantly elevates the look. For modern spaces, an abstract art piece adds flair. Collections displayed on trays--like stacks of coffee table books or seashells in a glass bowl--bring an eclectic feel.

Candles Set a Mood

Candles are a classic center table decoration that can set a relaxing or romantic mood. Cluster pillar candles in complementary heights and sizes for drama. Nestle smaller votives in trays filled with river rocks or marbles to create soothing ambiance.

Flowers Brighten Up the Space

A colorful bouquet placed in a decorative vase acts as a cheerful focal point. Select flowers like peonies or roses that open fully to maximize visual impact. For variety, use a mix of blooms in complementary hues. A low bowl filled with rose petals makes a fragrant display.

Play with Texture and Color

Inject visual interest into your center table by playing with texture. Mix ceramic vases with wooden trays and leather-bound books. Incorporate metal and glass objects. Pair fur throws with rattan baskets. Contrast matte and shiny surfaces. Tie the color palette to your existing furniture using decorative objects like vases and pillows in coordinating hues.

Bold colors instantly enliven a neutral space. Try vibrant blue or green ceramic pieces. Deep red vases give a glamorous vibe. Earthy tones like chocolate brown and olive green add natural warmth. Add pops of color with fresh flowers and fruit displays.

Use Plants and Greenery

Incorporating plants is an organic way to decorate a center table. Potted succulents, orchids or herbs add natural texture without taking up too much space. Use wall mounts or floating planters to free up table surface area. Add life with floral greens like ferns or ivy draping out of hanging baskets.

Succulents Thrive with Little Care

Succulents make ideal low maintenance center table plants. Attractive varieties like echeveria and aloe vera add sculptural shapes. Plant in a shallow dish or bowl and top with sand, marbles or gravel for a desert chic aesthetic.

Orchids Add Elegant Appeal

The vibrant flowers and glossy foliage of orchids give them sophisticated style. Dendrobium and cymbidium orchids flourish in indoor environments. Place the pot inside a decorative ceramic or a woven basket on the table.

Stack Books and Decor Items

Stacking books and decor items adds height and visual weight to center table displays. Varying heights create dimension and interest. Use art books, travel guides and cookbooks to show personality. Trays in finishes like brass, silver and wood provide a base to corral items and keep tabletops tidy.

Try Unusual Book Arrangements

Think outside the box when stacking books. Try arranging vertically with pages fanned out or horizontally into zigzag patterns. Group books by color or subject matter. Add visual intrigue by stacking books at angles or leaning them against decorative objects.

Incorporate Meaningful Personal Touches

Inject personality into your center table with treasured keepsakes and sentimental objects. Display favorite travel mementos like maps, postcards or small sculptures brought back from your journeys. Arrange family photos in decorative frames or photo books. Collections related to hobbies and passions add authenticity. Your center table decoration tells a story.

Play with Lighting and Height

Lighting and height are important design elements that impact the overall look and function of your center table display. Hang a statement pendant light or chandelier above the table to create drama. Table lamps provide cozy, focused light for tasks like reading. Use decorative risers, stands and tiered serving trays to add visual interest at varying heights.

Experiment with Pendant Lights

An eye-catching pendant light over your center table can anchor the space while illuminating your decor. Opt for sculptural wooden or geometric metal pendants that make a design statement. Play with light and shadow by using translucent or colored glass lampshades.

Try Unexpected Materials

Venture beyond the expected with your center table decor materials. Natural woven textures like rattan, bamboo and jute add casual flair. Repurposed ladder, crates and wooden boxes work in vintage spaces. For glamour, add touches of marble, mirrored surfaces, metallic finishes and seashells. Driftwood, geodes and found objects from nature create organic interest.

Switch It Up Seasonally

Keep your center table looking fresh by switching up decor seasonally. Come fall and winter, add touches like pinecones, cinnamon-scented candles, cozy throws, and events. In spring and summer, use bright blooms, woven baskets, shells, and colorful glassware. Reflecting the seasons in your decor is an easy way to revive your living room style.

When decorating your center table, edit ruthlessly. Too many objects compete for attention and create clutter. Frequently rotate pieces in and out for variety. Pay attention to small details like coasters, trays, and decorative bowls that tie the whole look together. With these brilliant tips, your center table will become a stylish focal point that elegantly enhances your living room.