Fixer Upper's Joanna Gaines Has An Eye-Catching Method For Styling A Coffee Table

A house fully turns into a home when it becomes an extension of the family living in it. HGTV star Joanna Gaines loves adding personal touches in homes that are reflective of the people who reside there. Decor that illustrates memories and family milestones are well suited in the living space and should serve as inspiration for styling a coffee table. On her Magnolia blog, Gaines recommended using the coffee table as a display for family photos, much like a typical wall shelf but grounded in the actual seating area.

"If you have something special, prized, or that you want to draw attention to, consider how those items may look displayed on your coffee table instead of up high on a shelf," Gaines said. This can include a decorative box full of family photos, personal keepsakes, or framed pictures of memorable events. Even a thin photo album can reside on the coffee table for easy access. It promotes conversation to reminisce about years gone by while also inviting the family to create new memories in the reflective space. 

Gaines added that the fixtures on the coffee table should vary in size so they are not competing with each other for space and don't appear cluttered. "Play around with how they may look when grouped together," and consider varying heights to use the space optimally. Coffee tables can typically accommodate frames up to 8"x10", but a 5"x7" size will save space if you are planning to display multiple framed photos.

The right coffee table decor can establish a new aesthetic within a room by including modern design elements that won't overpower the existing space. Gaines invited readers of her Magnolia blog to cover their coffee table with playful elements, literally. The addition of a board game or a crossword puzzle book allows the living space to double as a casual game room. This invites the family to bond while playing together and invites visitors to partake as well. A subtle example, Gaines said, could mean including a decorative bowl full of puzzle pieces for a hint of texture and nostalgia. Or perhaps display a chess game board and pieces, which pair nicely with academia like stacked books on a coffee table. Displaying a stack of books with add height and depth, but remember not to pile books that will be too heavy on the table's surface. Consider two or three books, then layer the largest book on the bottom with the smallest on top.

For a less formal look, Gaines encouraged stimulating the senses with organic and naturalistic design. Placing a plant on the coffee table will add color and breathability. A stylish vase will also add visual appeal as it houses greenery. (Plus you won't forget to water your plant when it is in the center of your living room!) Staging your coffee table with plants will establish a calming, refreshing feel in the space.