Mastering the Art of Coffee Table and Bookshelf Styling
by Carlisle Homes
With a bit of guidance, some creative thinking, and an eye for detail, you can transform your coffee table and bookshelf into spaces that exude pride and joy.
When catching sight of a perfectly curated coffee table or bookshelf, it’s easy to feel that such perfection is beyond reach. The meticulous arrangement, balanced symmetry, and harmonious blend of colours may seem like an art form reserved for those with an innate flair for interior design. However, the truth is that achieving this level of aesthetic appeal is within your grasp.
You can create a perfectly curated coffee table or bookshelf by following these simple principles.
Balance brings beauty
The foundation of styling a coffee table or bookshelf lies in assessing balance and symmetry. Start by understanding the visual weight of your room, then introduce complementary elements as needed. For instance, a square or rectangular living room with angled lines can benefit from a round coffee table to soften the space. Meanwhile, taller decorative items can elevate low-lying built-in shelves or entertainment units. Considering space and shapes is vital before diving into the art of decorating.
Use contrasts that captivate
Layering by contrasting is a powerful technique for styling coffee tables and bookshelves. Using varying heights and contrasting materials adds a dimensional quality and textural interest. For example, a tall vase next to a small knick-knack or book draws the eye upwards, making the room feel more spacious. Pairing a vintage book with a modern sculpture creates a dynamic and engaging display. The key is allowing each piece to tell its story while contributing to a cohesive narrative.
Carlisle Homes offers a variety of home designs to suit specific needs, including the beloved Astoria Grand Master 54. This spacious design features four distinct living spaces, each providing unique opportunities to showcase your style with various coffee tables, whether it’s the living room, formal lounge, versatile activity room, or home theatre.
Placing objects and mementoes of varying heights and contrasting materials adds a dimensional quality and textural interest.
Add a conversation-starter
A statement piece can serve as the focal point of your coffee table or bookshelf. This item should catch the eye without overshadowing other elements, sparking conversation while blending seamlessly with the overall design. Non-traditional items, such as a statement vase or an elegant chess set, can be both functional and decorative, adding an element of surprise and delight to the space.
Unlock creativity with colour
Carlisle's Nordic Essence interior style sets a pared-back palette centred around natural materials. This soft, Scandi style promotes an easy-going lifestyle with white, soft grey, greige, and blush tones, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere ideal for those who appreciate understated elegance.
To complement this muted palette, your coffee table and bookshelves offer the perfect opportunity to introduce bold styling choices without making permanent changes. Consider displaying colourful books, vibrant vases, or striking decorative objects. You might even choose a coffee table in a daring hue. Maximising the flexibility of these surfaces allows you to infuse more creativity and individuality into your home.
Make it personal
Incorporating personal items with sentimental value adds a distinctive touch to your styling, differentiating a display house from a lived-in home. For example, a coffee table book from a memorable holiday or a decorative bowl filled with coral pieces collected on your travels infuses individuality into your space. These elements provide a glimpse into your personality and history, enriching the overall design.
Show off the personality of all family members with personal curiosities adorning the ground-floor professional study and the dedicated first-floor kids' study presented in Carlisle Homes’ Illawarra Grand Master 45 flowing floorplan.
A statement vase can serve as the focal point of your coffee table but remember that it should catch the eye without overshadowing other elements.
Seasonal style shift
Keep your coffee table, and bookshelf displays fresh by rotating decor items seasonally. This approach rejuvenates your space and showcases different pieces throughout the year. Summer might see light, airy elements like pastel candles and poppy-filled vases, while winter could bring cosy books, cedarwood candles, and deep-hued blooms. This evolving method ensures your space remains dynamic, reflecting both your personal style and the current season.
Pop along to one (or more) of Carlisle Homes' 80+ display homes across Melbourne to see the stunning homes up close. While you’re there, you can chat with the friendly team about building your dream home.