Styling Your Space: How to Style a Coffee Table and Open Bookcase with Ease

There’s a quiet art to a well-styled coffee table. It’s that little corner of your living room where calm meets creativity—a spot that pulls the room together without even trying.

And why stop there? Let’s take that same energy to an open bookcase and turn it into a canvas of your personality. These simple styling tricks aren’t just about looks—they’re about bringing peace to your home, one cozy detail at a time. No fuss, just a few ideas to inspire you to play around and make your space feel right.

Style a Coffee Table: Keep It Simple, Make It Yours

Your coffee table is more than a catch-all for keys and cups—it’s a chance to create a little moment of zen. The purpose? To ground your space with something easy on the eyes, something that whispers calm even on hectic days.

Kick things off with a tray! Brass, wood, woven, whatever fits your groove. We designed a unique brass tray centerpiece featuring four candle holders, which are handmade in Marrakech, Morocco. Think of it like a mini stage for your essentials. Add a stack of books or magazines, topped with something fun like a stone, coral, or a quirky trinket. Height keeps it interesting. Then, bring in a touch of nature—a sprig of greenery or a single flower in a bud vase. Less is more here; leave space for that morning coffee cup or evening glass of wine.

A crowded table feels frantic—a curated one invites you to breathe.

Read about the Ultimate Guide to Creating Stylish Centerpieces for Every Holiday

Open Bookcase Ideas: Tell Your Story

Now, let’s drift over to that open bookcase. It’s not just for storage—it’s a chance to show off what you love, layered with a little calm. Think of it as a visual playlist of your life, minus the clutter.

First, edit down. Clear the shelves and only bring back what sparks joy—books, sure, but also a cool vase, a photo, or that random find from a trip. Mix it up: stack some books upright, others flat, and leave gaps. A trailing plant or a small sculpture breaks up the heaviness of all those spines. Group a few treasures together—like vintage mugs or colorful rocks—but don’t cram every inch. A lone candle or an empty shelf can feel just as purposeful. It’s about balance, not perfection. Read about the 3 must-visit European flea markets for rare and unique finds!

Why It Works

Here’s the thing: styling your coffee table or bookcase isn’t about impressing guests—it’s about carving out a space that feels good to you. A few intentional touches can shift a room from chaotic to peaceful, like a deep breath you didn’t know you needed. It’s low-effort magic—rearrange a couple of things, light a candle, and suddenly your home feels more alive, but not loud.

Quick Tips to Keep It Fresh

• Coffee Table Swap: Switch it up with the seasons. Nothing like pinecones in December, or a bowl of citrus in July. But more like raw quartz or jagged, unpolished crystals, or a beat-up steel tin that brings a rough, industrial edge.

• Bookcase Twist: Flip some books backward for a soft, neutral look—those pages add a chill vibe.

• Mindset: If it feels right, it is. No overthinking required!

So, pour that coffee, nudge a few things around, and see what happens. A peaceful home doesn’t need a grand plan—just a little care. What’s on your coffee table today? Might be the perfect starting point!

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Cake is a lifestyle brand offering unique homewares and accessories that celebrate culture and individuality. Founder Laurine Brugman designs products that withstand trends and fads - creating timeless pieces that you’ll treasure forever.

We’re passionate about preserving traditional crafts and passing on a little bit of love with our hand-made items. All of our items are produced in limited runs to eliminate waste and ensure quality.