The Art of Tabletop Decor

A Comprehensive Guide to Styling Every Surface in Your Home

By Sarah Mitchell | Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

The magic is in the details - and those details live on your tables

"A beautifully styled table is like a curated gallery in miniature. It tells visitors who you are without saying a word." - Sarah Mitchell

Welcome from the Author

Hello, and welcome back to the Guérip Style Library!

I'm Sarah Mitchell, and today we're focusing on something that might seem small but makes an enormous impact: tabletop decor.

In my fifteen years of styling homes, I've noticed that tabletops are where people most often freeze. They can choose a sofa with confidence, select paint colors decisively, even hang art without hesitation. But put them in front of a bare coffee table or empty console, and suddenly they're paralyzed. What goes there? How much? In what arrangement?

I understand the uncertainty. Tabletop styling is different from other design decisions because it's so visible and so changeable. Your tables are the surfaces you interact with daily. They're at eye level when you're seated. They're the first things guests notice when they enter a room. And unlike a rug or a sofa, you can (and should) rearrange them regularly.

The good news is that tabletop styling follows principles that, once you understand them, make the process intuitive. You'll learn to see a bare surface not as a challenge but as an opportunity. You'll develop an eye for groupings that feel collected rather than cluttered. And you'll gain the confidence to edit, adjust, and evolve your tablescapes season by season.

Let's transform your surfaces from empty space into intentional design moments.

Warmly,

Sarah Mitchell Senior Home Styling Expert, Guérip

Introduction

Every home has surfaces waiting to be styled. Coffee tables, dining tables, console tables, side tables, nightstands, mantels, shelves - these horizontal planes are the stages where your personal style plays out in miniature.

Yet these surfaces often become dumping grounds for clutter or remain awkwardly bare. Neither extreme serves your home well. The goal is intentional curation: selecting objects that serve function or beauty (ideally both), arranging them thoughtfully, and maintaining them so they enhance rather than detract from your space.

This guide covers the principles and practices of tabletop styling throughout your home. You'll learn which objects work on which surfaces, how to create arrangements that feel balanced and interesting, and how to maintain tablescapes that evolve with the seasons while always looking intentional.

Think of tabletop decor as the jewelry of your home. Just as the right accessories complete an outfit, the right objects on your surfaces complete a room.

Part One: Understanding Tabletop Decor

What Qualifies as Tabletop Decor

Tabletop decor encompasses any objects placed on horizontal surfaces for decorative effect. This includes:

Purely Decorative Objects:

• Sculptures and figurines
• Decorative bowls (empty)
• Art objects
• Decorative spheres and orbs
• Crystal or glass pieces
• Collected items

Functional-Decorative Objects:

• Vases (with or without flowers)
• Candles and candleholders
• Books and magazines
• Trays
• Decorative boxes
• Clocks
• Table lamps
• Coasters
• Bowls holding items

Natural Elements:

• Fresh flowers
• Potted plants
• Branches and stems
• Stones and minerals
• Shells
• Dried botanicals

Personal Items:

• Framed photographs
• Collected souvenirs
• Meaningful objects
• Inherited pieces

The Role of Tabletop Decor

Well-styled surfaces serve multiple purposes:

Creating Visual Interest

Bare surfaces look unfinished. Thoughtfully arranged objects add layers of visual interest that make a room feel complete and considered.

Expressing Personality

Your tabletop choices reveal your taste, travels, interests, and values. They're an opportunity for personal expression in a way that furniture cannot match.

Adding Dimension

Objects on tables add vertical elements to what would otherwise be flat horizontal planes. This dimension is essential for visual depth.

Providing Function

Many tabletop items serve practical purposes: lamps provide light, trays corral remotes, boxes store small items, coasters protect surfaces.

Grounding Larger Pieces

A console table looks unfinished without objects on top. The tabletop decor completes the furniture piece and anchors it in the room.

Creating Conversation

Interesting objects spark conversation and give guests something to notice and discuss.

Types of Tables and Their Styling Needs

Different tables serve different functions and require different approaches:

Part Two: Essential Tabletop Elements

Trays

Trays are the foundation of tabletop styling. They corral objects into intentional groupings and add a layer of organization to any surface.

Benefits of trays:

• Unify disparate objects
• Create instant vignettes
• Make clearing surfaces easy
• Add another layer of texture and material
• Protect table surfaces
• Define zones on large surfaces

Types of trays:

Tray sizing:

• Should be proportional to the surface
• Not more than 2/3 the width of the table
• Leave space around the tray
• Multiple smaller trays can work on large surfaces

Books

Books are essential tabletop styling tools. They add height, color, and intellectual interest.

Coffee table books:

• Choose topics that reflect your interests
• Consider cover design and color
• Quality over quantity
• Mix large format with smaller
• Update seasonally or with new interests

Styling with books:

• Stack 2-4 books horizontally
• Vary orientation (horizontal stacks, vertical placement)
• Top stacks with small objects
• Coordinate cover colors with room palette when possible
• Mix sizes for interest

Book stack guidelines:

• Small table: 1 stack of 2-3 books
• Medium table: 1-2 stacks of 2-4 books
• Large table: 2-3 stacks throughout

Vases

Vases work beautifully both empty (as sculptural objects) and filled.

Empty vases:

• Choose interesting shapes
• Group in odd numbers
• Vary heights within groupings
• Consider colored glass for light play
• Treat as sculptural art

Filled vases:

• Fresh flowers (change weekly)
• Dried flowers and botanicals
• Branches (seasonal)
• Single stems (modern, simple)
• Faux florals (quality is key)

Vase guidelines by table:

Candles and Candleholders

Candles add warmth, ambiance, and often fragrance.

Types:

Candleholder materials:

• Glass (clear or colored)
• Metal (brass, silver, black)
• Ceramic
• Wood
• Stone

Candle grouping principles:

• Odd numbers (3, 5, 7)
• Vary heights
• Consistent color or intentionally varied
• Coordinate holder styles within grouping

Decorative Objects

These are the sculptural elements that add personality.

Categories:

Organic/Natural:

• Stones and crystals
• Shells and coral
• Wood pieces
• Mineral specimens
• Natural curiosities

Sculptural:

• Abstract sculptures
• Figurines
• Art objects
• Decorative spheres
• Geometric shapes

Functional-Decorative:

• Decorative boxes
• Bowls
• Small clocks
• Paperweights
• Bookends

Collected:

• Travel souvenirs
• Vintage finds
• Inherited pieces
• Personal collections

Greenery and Botanicals

Living elements bring vitality to tabletops.

Plants:

• Small potted plants
• Succulents
• Air plants
• Terrariums
• Orchids

Cut botanicals:

• Fresh flowers
• Branches
• Greenery
• Herbs (kitchen)

Dried and preserved:

• Dried flowers
• Preserved eucalyptus
• Dried grasses
• Seed pods
• Dried citrus

Faux options:

• High-quality faux flowers
• Faux succulents
• Faux greenery
• Best when very realistic

Picture Frames

Frames add personal touch and visual interest.

Frame styling tips:

• Layer frames at different depths
• Mix frame finishes thoughtfully
• Include various sizes
• Don't overcrowd
• Update photos periodically

Frame arrangement:

• Single standout frame
• Pair of matching frames
• Grouped at different heights
• Leaning against other objects

Part Three: Principles of Arrangement

The Rule of Three

Odd numbers create more dynamic arrangements. Three is particularly effective because it creates a triangle, which naturally draws the eye.

Basic three-element vignette:

1. One tall item (lamp, vase, candlestick)
2. One medium item (small plant, decorative box, frame)
3. One low item (small bowl, book stack, decorative object)

Arrange in a triangle formation, not a straight line.

Scale and Proportion

Objects should be proportional to the surface and to each other.

Surface proportion:

• Objects should not overwhelm the table
• Leave breathing room around arrangements
• Taller objects can exist on larger surfaces
• Small surfaces need small objects

Object-to-object proportion:

• Mix heights deliberately
• Vary scale within groupings
• Avoid all same-size objects
• Create visual hierarchy

Height Variation

Every successful tabletop arrangement includes height variation.

The principle:

• One tall element
• One medium element
• One low element

This creates visual movement and interest.

Creating height:

• Lamps
• Tall vases
• Candlesticks
• Stacked books (to elevate other objects)
• Plants
• Sculptural pieces

Visual Weight and Balance

Visual weight refers to how "heavy" an object appears, regardless of actual weight.

Factors affecting visual weight:

• Size (larger = heavier)
• Color (darker = heavier)
• Density (solid = heavier than transparent)
• Texture (rough = heavier than smooth)
• Pattern (patterned = heavier than plain)

Balancing visual weight:

• Distribute weight across the surface
• Don't cluster all heavy items on one side
• Balance a large item with several smaller items
• Use lighter items to offset darker ones

Negative Space

What you leave empty matters as much as what you fill.

Why negative space matters:

• Prevents cluttered appearance
• Lets objects breathe
• Creates visual rest
• Makes arrangement look intentional
• Highlights individual pieces

Guidelines:

• Leave at least 30-40% of surface visible
• Don't push objects to table edges
• Create clear zones between groupings
• Allow space between individual objects in groupings

Creating Depth

Flat arrangements look boring. Create depth by layering.

Depth techniques:

• Place objects at different distances from viewer
• Layer smaller items in front of larger
• Overlap elements slightly
• Use varied heights to create dimension
• Lean frames against other objects

Part Four: Table-by-Table Styling Guide

Coffee Table Styling

The coffee table is often the most challenging and most important surface to style.

Unique considerations:

• Viewed from all sides (usually)
• Must remain functional for drinks, snacks
• At seated eye level
• Centerpiece of living room seating

Coffee table styling approaches:

The Tray Method Place a tray at center or slightly off-center. Arrange objects within and around the tray.

Components:

• One tray
• 1-2 stacked books (in or beside tray)
• Small plant or flower
• Candle or decorative object
• Space for drinks

The Quadrant Method Divide the table mentally into four zones. Style 2-3 zones, leave 1-2 for function.

Example:

• Zone 1: Book stack with object on top
• Zone 2: Small plant or vase
• Zone 3: Empty (for drinks)
• Zone 4: Decorative bowl

The Centerline Method Create a line of objects down the center, leaving sides clear.

Components:

• Central arrangement (low flowers or objects)
• Flanking books or candles
• Clear space on either side

Coffee table by shape:

Coffee table height guidelines:

• Keep objects low enough for conversation across
• Maximum height approximately 12 inches
• Exception: single statement piece can be taller

Console Table Styling

Console tables offer more creative freedom because they're viewed from one side.

Common locations:

• Entryway
• Behind sofa
• Hallway
• Living room wall
• Dining room

Console styling formula:

The Classic Arrangement:

1. Lamp or tall statement piece (off-center)
2. Medium grouping on opposite side
3. Small accent piece for balance
4. Optional: artwork or mirror above

The Symmetrical Arrangement:

1. Matched lamps on each end
2. Central decorative piece
3. Smaller items flanking center
4. Mirror centered above

The Layered Arrangement:

1. Art leaning against wall
2. Objects at varying depths in front
3. Overlap creates collected feel

Console styling by location:

Height considerations:

• Can go taller than coffee table
• Lamps typically 26-34 inches
• Decorative pieces can vary widely
• Art or mirror above extends visual height

Dining Table Styling

The dining table must be easily cleared for meals.

Everyday styling:

• Low profile essential
• Centerpiece that's quickly movable
• Nothing that impedes conversation
• Consider traffic patterns around table

Centerpiece options:

Height rules for dining:

• Maximum 12 inches for everyday
• Lower is better (under 8 inches ideal)
• Guests should see each other clearly
• Special occasions can go slightly taller

Table runners and placemats:

• Runner defines center zone
• Placemats for individual settings
• Coordinate but don't match exactly
• Leave runner bare or add low centerpiece

Side Table and End Table Styling

These surfaces serve primarily functional purposes beside seating.

Essential elements:

• Lamp (usually essential)
• Coaster or small tray
• Current reading material
• One decorative element

Prioritization:

1. Lamp (if needed for reading)
2. Functional items (coaster, tissue box)
3. Decorative item (small plant, frame, object)
4. Space for drink or phone

Scale considerations:

• Objects should not overwhelm small tables
• Lamp should be proportional to table and seating
• Leave clear surface for drinks
• One grouping maximum

End table arrangements:

Nightstand Styling

Nightstands serve intimate, personal functions.

Essential elements:

• Lamp (essential for reading, ambiance)
• Clock or phone charging spot
• Water glass or carafe
• Current book

Optional decorative elements:

• Small plant
• Framed photo
• Small decorative object
• Jewelry dish or tray
• Candle

Nightstand guidelines:

• Keep minimal and calming
• Functionality is priority
• Nothing that creates visual stress
• Personal items are appropriate here
• Both nightstands should be coordinated but not identical

Nightstand lamp height:

• Shade bottom at eye level when sitting in bed
• Typically 24-27 inches total height
• Ensure easy reach from bed

Buffet and Sideboard Styling

These substantial pieces can handle more dramatic styling.

Typical locations:

• Dining room
• Living room
• Hallway
• Entry

Buffet styling approach:

The Traditional:

• Matching lamps on ends
• Central decorative piece or artwork
• Smaller items flanking center
• Mirror or art above

The Asymmetrical:

• Tall lamp on one end
• Graduated heights toward other end
• Visual weight balanced through scale
• Art offset above

The Layered:

• Art leaning against wall
• Objects at varying depths
• Collected, curated appearance
• Height variation throughout

Scale considerations:

• Buffets can handle larger, taller objects
• Create substantial visual impact
• Balance weight across the surface
• Height can exceed 18-24 inches

Kitchen Island Styling

Kitchen islands serve heavy functional duty but still deserve styling attention.

Everyday approach:

• Minimal items that can be quickly cleared
• Functional items styled beautifully
• Nothing that interferes with food prep

Appropriate items:

• Fruit bowl
• Small herb plant
• Salt and pepper grinders
• Beautiful olive oil bottle
• Cake stand (empty or with fruit)
• Small cutting board with decorative items
• Single low vase with flowers

What to avoid:

• Anything tall or unstable
• Items that can't get wet or dirty
• Excessive decoration
• Anything not easily moved for cooking

Desk Styling

Work surfaces require minimal, organized styling.

Essential elements:

• Task lamp
• Organized supplies
• Calendar or planner (if used)

Optional decorative elements:

• Small plant (real or quality faux)
• One framed photo
• One meaningful decorative object
• Attractive desk accessories

Principles:

• Functionality first
• Minimal decorative items
• Nothing that creates clutter
• Items should inspire, not distract
• Consider video call background

Bathroom Counter Styling

Bathroom surfaces require practical beauty.

Everyday essentials:

• Soap dispenser (attractive)
• Hand towel
• Tray for corralling items

Decorative additions:

• Small plant (humidity-tolerant)
• Candle
• Decorative container for cotton balls
• Small vase with single stem

Guidelines:

• Keep most items in drawers/cabinets
• Style only what you use daily
• Use attractive containers for necessities
• Minimal is better in small bathrooms
• Easy to clean around

Part Five: Styling by Design Style

Modern/Contemporary

Characteristics:

• Minimal objects
• Sculptural pieces
• Geometric shapes
• Monochromatic or bold color
• High-quality materials
• Plenty of negative space

Preferred objects:

• Abstract sculptures
• Geometric vases
• Single statement books
• Architectural objects
• Metal accents

Arrangement style:

• Sparse, intentional
• Gallery-like presentation
• Individual pieces as focal points
• Strong negative space

Traditional

Characteristics:

• More objects acceptable
• Classic materials (silver, crystal, porcelain)
• Symmetrical arrangements
• Collected over time appearance
• Rich colors and patterns

Preferred objects:

• Classic vases
• Silver or crystal pieces
• Traditional frames
• Decorative boxes
• Porcelain items
• Fresh flowers

Arrangement style:

• Balanced, often symmetrical
• Layered and collected
• Formal groupings
• Paired items common

Transitional

Characteristics:

• Blend of modern and traditional
• Quality materials
• Balanced arrangements
• Neutral palette with accents
• Clean but warm

Preferred objects:

• Simple vases
• Quality books
• Subtle metallic accents
• Natural elements
• Classic shapes in modern finishes

Arrangement style:

• Balanced but not strict symmetry
• Curated rather than collected
• Intentional negative space
• Mixed heights

Farmhouse/Rustic

Characteristics:

• Natural materials
• Vintage elements
• Casual, approachable
• Texture-rich
• Neutral palette

Preferred objects:

• Vintage finds
• Wooden bowls and trays
• Mason jars with flowers
• Galvanized metal
• Woven baskets
• Pottery

Arrangement style:

• Casual, unstudied appearance
• Grouped collections
• Practical items as decor
• Natural elements

Coastal

Characteristics:

• Light, airy feeling
• Natural textures
• Blue and white palette
• Organic shapes
• Beach-inspired elements

Preferred objects:

• Shells and coral (natural, not kitschy)
• Glass vases
• White ceramics
• Driftwood
• Woven textures
• Blue accents

Arrangement style:

• Light and uncluttered
• Natural groupings
• Organic arrangements
• Plenty of breathing room

Bohemian

Characteristics:

• Eclectic mix
• Global influences
• Rich colors and patterns
• Layered, collected
• Personal, meaningful

Preferred objects:

• Travel souvenirs
• Vintage finds
• Handcrafted items
• Colorful ceramics
• Woven and textile elements
• Plants

Arrangement style:

• Abundant, layered
• Mixed heights and textures
• Collected over time feel
• Personal and eclectic

Scandinavian

Characteristics:

• Minimal, functional
• Natural materials
• Light colors
• Hygge (cozy) elements
• Quality over quantity

Preferred objects:

• Simple ceramic vases
• Candles (essential)
• Natural wood
• Plants
• Simple books
• Quality textiles

Arrangement style:

• Minimal but warm
• Functional beauty
• Careful curation
• Strong negative space

Part Six: Seasonal Styling

The Benefits of Seasonal Changes

Rotating tabletop decor seasonally keeps your home feeling fresh without major investment or effort.

Why style seasonally:

• Prevents visual boredom
• Connects home to the outside world
• Allows for celebration of holidays
• Lets you use and enjoy more of your collection
• Creates anticipation and ritual

Spring Styling

Color palette:

• Soft greens
• Pale pinks
• Light yellows
• Lavender
• Fresh white

Key elements:

• Fresh flowers (tulips, daffodils, ranunculus)
• Flowering branches (cherry, forsythia)
• Bird motifs
• Light-colored ceramics
• Green plants

Textures:

• Light linens
• Fresh greenery
• Smooth ceramics
• Clear glass

Styling tips:

• Remove heavy winter elements
• Lighten color palette
• Add fresh botanical elements
• Open up arrangements (more space)
• Incorporate new growth themes

Summer Styling

Color palette:

• Ocean blues
• Sandy neutrals
• Coral and peach
• Bright white
• Vibrant greens

Key elements:

• Seashells (subtle, not themed)
• Beach glass
• Fresh fruit in bowls
• Succulents
• Fresh flowers (peonies, garden roses, hydrangea)

Textures:

• Rattan and woven materials
• Natural fibers
• Light cotton
• Glass
• Natural stone

Styling tips:

• Keep arrangements light and airy
• Incorporate natural, found elements
• Use fruit as decoration
• Fresh flowers are abundant
• Simplify overall

Fall Styling

Color palette:

• Warm terracotta
• Deep oranges
• Mustard yellow
• Burgundy
• Rich browns
• Olive green

Key elements:

• Dried flowers and grasses
• Branches with leaves
• Natural gourds and pumpkins (understated)
• Amber glass
• Brass and copper
• Warm woods

Textures:

• Velvet
• Wool
• Rough pottery
• Natural wood grain
• Woven materials

Styling tips:

• Layer in warmth
• Add candlelight
• Bring in harvest elements
• Deeper, richer colors
• More substantial arrangements

Winter Styling

Color palette:

• Deep greens
• Rich burgundy
• Metallics (gold, silver)
• Ivory and cream
• Midnight blue
• Classic red (sparingly)

Key elements:

• Evergreen branches
• Candles (grouped)
• Metallic accents
• Velvet textures
• Pinecones
• Winter botanicals

Textures:

• Velvet
• Faux fur
• Metallic finishes
• Glass
• Luxurious materials

Styling tips:

• Create warmth and coziness
• Increase candlelight
• Add metallic sparkle
• Layer textures
• Fresh evergreens add fragrance

Holiday Styling

General principles:

• Layer holiday elements into existing decor
• Don't completely replace everyday items
• Coordinate with existing palette when possible
• Edit rather than add excessively
• Easy to set up and take down

Subtle holiday additions:

• Swap flowers for seasonal blooms
• Add candles in seasonal colors
• Include natural seasonal elements
• One or two holiday-specific items
• Festive napkins or linens (dining)

Part Seven: Practical Considerations

Maintaining Styled Surfaces

Styled surfaces require maintenance to stay beautiful.

Daily habits:

• Return items to their places after use
• Remove clutter immediately
• Adjust objects that have shifted
• Refresh flowers as needed

Weekly maintenance:

• Dust all objects
• Clean surfaces beneath objects
• Remove anything that has accumulated
• Reassess arrangements

Monthly review:

• Evaluate if arrangement still works
• Rotate objects for fresh perspective
• Deep clean items that need it
• Consider seasonal updates

Dealing with Everyday Items

Real life means real objects on tables. Integrate them thoughtfully.

Television remotes:

• Place in decorative box
• Corral on small tray
• Store in nearby drawer or basket

Magazines and mail:

• Designate specific spots
• Use decorative trays or boxes
• Sort and recycle regularly
• Don't let piles accumulate

Keys and wallet:

• Entry table tray
• Decorative bowl
• Designated drawer
• Wall hooks nearby

Phone and chargers:

• Charging station with cord management
• Bedside drawer
• Decorative box that hides cables

Protecting Surfaces

Tabletop decor can damage surfaces if not placed carefully.

Prevention measures:

• Use felt pads under all objects
• Coasters for drinks (always)
• Trays under groupings
• Lift objects when moving (don't drag)
• Check for rough bottoms on new items

Material-specific concerns:

Childproofing and Pet-Proofing

Living with children and pets requires adapted approaches.

Child-safe strategies:

• Choose unbreakable materials
• Avoid sharp edges
• Place fragile items out of reach
• Use lightweight objects that won't injure
• Accept that styling will be minimal during certain years
• Create "untouchable" surfaces out of reach

Pet-safe strategies:

• Avoid toxic plants
• Secure tall items that could topple
• No small items that could be swallowed
• Consider pet tail height
• Cats require elevated styling or acceptance of knocked items

Part Eight: Building Your Collection

Essential Items to Acquire

Build a versatile collection over time.

Foundation pieces:

• 2-3 trays (varying sizes and shapes)
• Several quality coffee table books
• 3-5 vases (varying heights and styles)
• Candles and candleholders (various sizes)
• 2-3 decorative boxes
• 1-2 decorative bowls

Natural elements:

• Small plants or faux botanicals
• Seasonal flower budget
• Natural objects (stones, shells, wood)

Personal touches:

• Meaningful collected objects
• Travel souvenirs
• Inherited pieces
• Items that tell your story

Where to Find Tabletop Decor

Investment pieces:

• Design shops
• Antique stores
• Artisan markets
• Independent artists
• Estate sales

Everyday pieces:

• Home decor retailers
• Online marketplaces
• Thrift stores
• Garden centers (for plants)

Free/nearly free:

• Natural elements (branches, stones, shells)
• Books you already own
• Vintage finds from family
• Fruit and vegetables as decor

Budget Strategy

Where to invest:

• Statement pieces prominently displayed
• Items you'll keep for years
• Quality materials that age well
• Pieces with personal meaning

Where to save:

• Seasonal items
• Trend-driven pieces
• Candles (consumable)
• Background supporting pieces

Editing Your Collection

More is not always better. Regular editing keeps tablescapes fresh.

Signs you have too much:

• Surfaces look cluttered
• You can't see the table beneath
• Dusting is a major chore
• Nothing stands out as special
• Arrangements feel chaotic

Editing process:

1. Remove everything from surface
2. Clean the surface
3. Select only your favorites
4. Arrange with intentional space
5. Store or donate the rest
6. Resist immediately filling gaps

Part Nine: Troubleshooting Common Problems

"My coffee table looks cluttered"

Solutions:

• Remove 30% of what's there
• Use a tray to corral items
• Create clear negative space
• Limit to 3-5 items total
• Store some items and rotate

"My console table looks bare"

Solutions:

• Add height with lamp or tall object
• Layer items at different depths
• Include 5-7 items of varying sizes
• Add art or mirror above
• Create intentional groupings

"Everything looks matchy-matchy"

Solutions:

• Mix materials within arrangements
• Vary heights more dramatically
• Add one unexpected element
• Include natural items
• Incorporate something vintage or handmade

"I don't know where to start"

Solutions:

• Begin with one surface
• Start with a tray as foundation
• Add one tall, one medium, one low item
• Build gradually over time
• Copy arrangements you admire

"My arrangements look like a store display"

Solutions:

• Add personal, meaningful items
• Include imperfect or vintage pieces
• Vary the quality levels slightly
• Layer items at different depths
• Make it less "perfect"

"Tabletop items keep migrating"

Solutions:

• Define items' "homes" clearly
• Use trays to contain groupings
• Create designated spots for everyday items
• Tidy daily to reset
• Accept some lived-in appearance

"My dining table centerpiece blocks conversation"

Solutions:

• Lower the height (under 8 inches ideal)
• Use a runner with low objects
• Single low bowl or plant
• Remove centerpiece for dinner parties
• Consider candles only (low pillars)

"I can't find tabletop items I like"

Solutions:

• Look beyond "home decor" sections
• Consider items from garden, kitchen, art departments
• Explore antique stores for unique pieces
• Think of ordinary objects as decorative (fruit, books)
• Commission from local artisans

Conclusion: Surfaces as Storytelling

Your tabletops tell a story. They reveal what you love, where you've been, what you're reading, how you live. A coffee table with carefully chosen books and collected treasures says something different than one with only a remote control. A console table with a lamp, fresh flowers, and a meaningful photograph welcomes guests into your world.

The principles in this guide will help you style surfaces that look intentional and beautiful. But the real goal is creating arrangements that feel like you. Don't be afraid to break rules if breaking them serves your personal vision. Display the objects that bring you joy, even if they're unconventional. Mix the inherited piece from your grandmother with the contemporary sculpture you fell in love with. Let your surfaces evolve as you do.

Start where you are. Style one surface this week. Live with it. Adjust it. Add to it or edit it. Move to the next surface. Over time, you'll develop an instinct for what works in your home and for you.

Your tables are waiting. Let's give them something beautiful to hold.

This guide is part of the Guérip Home Styling Series by Sarah Mitchell.

More guides in the series:

• The Art of Soft Furnishings
• The Art of Decorative Objects
• The Art of Lighting
• The Art of Mirrors
• The Art of Rugs and Carpets
• Window Treatments: From Basics to Beautiful
• Color Theory for the Everyday Home
• Seasonal Refresh: A Room-by-Room Transition Guide

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

The Basic Formula

For any surface:

1. One tall element
2. One medium element
3. One low element
4. Breathing room

Object Count by Surface

Height Guidelines by Surface

Essential Elements Checklist

For a well-styled home, consider acquiring:

• [ ] 2-3 trays (varying sizes)
• [ ] 5-10 coffee table books
• [ ] 3-5 vases (varying heights)
• [ ] Candles and holders (various)
• [ ] 2-3 decorative boxes
• [ ] 1-2 decorative bowls
• [ ] Small plants or faux botanicals
• [ ] Meaningful personal objects
• [ ] Seasonal flower budget

Quick Style Guide

Seasonal Swap Quick Guide

About Guérip

Guérip is dedicated to helping you create spaces that reflect your unique style and support your everyday life. Through expert guidance, curated collections, and practical inspiration, we believe that beautiful living should be accessible to everyone.

Visit us at www.guerip.com to explore our full range of home styling resources.

About the Author

Sarah Mitchell is Guérip's Senior Home Styling Expert with over fifteen years of experience in interior design and home staging. She has been featured in leading home and lifestyle publications and is known for her approachable, practical advice that helps real people create beautiful spaces on real budgets. Sarah believes that every home has potential - it just needs the right touches to shine.

Guérip - Designing spaces. Creating homes.

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Happy styling!