Coffee Tables And Other Decorative Homewares

Typically a coffee table is a small, low table that is placed near a sofa. The idea is that it is a fine resting place for a cup of coffee or tea. It is usually accompanied by other items in a living room set such as the chairs, side tables, and of course the couch.  Most people include a coffee table into their idea of a fully furnished den or living area. The problem then is how to style the coffee table in our own lives. Smaller items such as ceramics, candle holders, and decorative glassware are useful for decorating coffee tables. Other options for coffee table decorating are basketware and other boxes.

Basketware

Storage is an essential function of the coffee table that can be made easier with baskets and trays. Smaller items like magazines, books, and the remote control can be placed in the basket for later use. Larger baskets could be tucked beneath or inside the coffee table itself. Woven trays are ideal for resting upon the table top to hold things. Basketware is also an elegant solution to holding floral centrepieces or houseplants. Those who particularly enjoy interlaced fibres can add touches such as basketware ornaments and sticks to complete the look of a coffee table organized with baskets.

Boxes

Decorative boxes are another solution for tasteful coffee table storage. The level surface of a box creates alternate patterns in height, especially when accompanied by a stack of books. Boxes are great because there is a lot of space to put things inside of them. They also look good enough to set on the table as an oddball object. Trunks and suitcases actually double as coffee tables or side tables in many situations. Metal jewellery boxes are good for hard to find objects of a miniscule size like watch batteries. Even a porcelain trinket box would do well on a coffee table.

Candle Holders

Something tall such as a hurricane lamp or tiered candle holder sets off the surrounding storage or plant material on the coffee table. Candles provide an illuminating glow that is just right for many sitting area moments. For example guests at a dinner party would enjoy the flickering candlelight on the table while they conversed in the parlour. Other coffee tables may be more suited for a single votive, or perhaps a few votive candles lined up in a row. Five plate candle holders line up candles in a row and resemble the curves of a vine. There are even candle holders made out of wicker and basketware lined with glass.

Ceramics

Decorative ceramics are a classic approach to interior design. Many decorators enjoy this old fashioned staple when they design. A ceramic vase or jug is a wonderful place to place decorative flora or other objects. Gussy up a boring table with a fancy platter, or a pumpkin pot, or even a flute jug. If ceramic containers are not an appealing option then consider sprucing up the area with a ceramic owl, Buddha bust, or rosebud heart. Ceramic figurines of animals, mythical creatures, and legendary figures are appealing to the young and old. Just a single ceramic piece could start an entire conversation.

Decorative Glassware

Decorative glassware is an excellent way to incorporate a tall element to the surface of a coffee table. Items such as hurricane lamps, glass lanterns, and vases hold votive candles and protect them from getting extinguished. Compotes, bowels, and glass trinket boxes can be used as candy jars or as a way to organize odds and ends. It is a good idea to use glass trays to serve snacks, drinks or appetizers in the living area. Some people like how a glass canister, bottle or jar looks standing alone on a coffee table, or on a little tray. In a pinch a glass vase could even hold a bouquet of flowers at the centre of the table.