How to Style a Tray on a Coffee Table: A Guide to Effortless Elegance

In a luxury living room, every detail matters — and your coffee table is no exception. Often the centerpiece of your seating area, a well-styled coffee table adds character, warmth, and intentionality to your space.

One of the simplest yet most impactful styling tools? A decorative tray. It brings order to your display, creates visual interest, and allows you to express your style in subtle, thoughtful ways.

At Exohom, we believe in curated living. Every piece, no matter how small, should reflect your taste and elevate your environment. If you're looking to bring balance and beauty to your living room, here's how to style a tray on a coffee table like a design pro.

Step 1: Choose the Right Tray

The tray sets the tone for your styling, so select one that complements both your coffee table and your overall living room aesthetic.

• Materials: Choose from luxe options like marble or metal for a refined look, wood for warmth, or glass for a more modern vibe.
  

• Shapes: Round trays work beautifully on square or round tables, while rectangular trays suit longer tables.
  

• Proportion is key: Your tray should occupy roughly one-third to one-half of the tabletop — large enough to make a statement but still leave room for functionality.
  

At Exohom, we offer decorative trays for tables in styles that pair perfectly with both minimalist and maximalist interiors.

Step 2: Create a Balanced Layout

Styling is all about balance — visually and spatially. Start with the rule of odds: group items in sets of 3 or 5 for a layout that feels natural yet polished.

• Vary heights: Combine tall candles, medium-sized books, and low-profile accessories like a bowl or trinket box.
  

• Layer thoughtfully: Stack a few books or magazines at the base, then place objects like a diffuser or decorative sculpture on top.
  

• Leave breathing room: Negative space is just as important as the objects themselves — avoid overcrowding to maintain a sense of ease.
  

By playing with scale, texture, and shape, your tray becomes a curated focal point rather than just a collection of items.

Step 3: Mix Functional with Decorative

A beautifully styled tray should feel intentional and livable. Balance decorative charm with day-to-day usability:

• Add a scented candle, succulent, or decorative bowl for a luxe yet organic touch.
  

• Include coasters or a stylish box for storing remotes or matches — practical yet elevated.
  

• For personality, consider a framed photo, cultural artifact, or an art object that reflects your taste.
  

Importantly, the tray should be easy to lift and move, so the surface can be cleared effortlessly when you’re entertaining.

Step 4: Reflect Seasonal or Cultural Themes

Your coffee table tray is a dynamic styling opportunity — update it with the seasons or celebrations:

• For Ramadan or Eid, incorporate a crescent-shaped decor piece, an oud diffuser, or calligraphy art.
  

• In winter, use warm tones, candles, and textures like velvet or faux fur.
  

• For summer, opt for breezy elements like light linen napkins, sea glass decor, or dried flowers.
  

This rotating approach keeps your living room feeling fresh and aligned with your lifestyle.

Coffee Table Styling Inspiration from Exohom

At Exohom, we design coffee tables that are functional works of art, ready to serve as the canvas for your unique styling vision.

Top-selling models include:

• Zafran Marble Coffee Table – Pairs beautifully with metallic trays and monochrome accessories for a modern glam mood.
  

• Lina Wooden Coffee Table – A warm, minimalistic base perfect for layered neutrals and earthy accents.
  

• Kaza Black Glass Table – Sleek and contemporary; pairs well with bold contrast elements like gold or white trays.
  

Styling Mood Boards:

• Modern Glam: Gold tray, stacked art books, crystal candleholder
  

• Minimalist Chic: White ceramic tray, green plant clipping in glass vase, single candle
  

• Cultural Luxe: Marble tray, oud diffuser, mother-of-pearl bowl, Arabic calligraphy cube
  

Final Thoughts

Styling a tray on a coffee table might seem like a small detail — but in the world of luxury living room décor, it’s the subtle touches that speak volumes. Whether you're refreshing your space or completing a full interior vision, let Exohom help you curate every corner beautifully.

Ready to elevate your table styling?
Explore Exohom’s coffee tables and home accessories to bring thoughtful elegance to your space.