A well-curated coffee table (or bookshelf, chair, entry table, etc.) is the perfect canvas for carefully selected books. Its an opportunity to add color, layers, and self-expression. Coffee table books are not just about whats inside, but also how it elevates your space. Sharing some thoughts on how to add them to your home.
Coffee table books offer a peek into your interests and aesthetics. From history and fashion to travel and florals, there’s a coffee table book for nearly every interest, making it easy to find the perfect ones for you. Even our son, Arthur, gets in on the fun and has a selection of his own books on display … they are kid friendly and Mom approved (so aesthetically pleasing). We love this family friendly series of books!
Arranging your coffee table books can transform your living space. Some tips, as you curate your collection:
- Choose books that genuinely excite you. Your home should be a reflection of who you are, your personality and your interests.
- The obvious is to use your coffee table, but I love to utilize our built-in bookshelves, a stand alone chair, side tables and desks.
- Coffee table books are visual elements and a great conversation starter. You want others to flip through them! Think high-quality photographs and beautiful illustrations.
- Consider the size of your furniture or wherever you plan to place these books. A mix of sizes is really pleasing to the eye. Taller books can act as anchors, while smaller ones can be stacked or spread out. I like to incorporate small soft back books for a smaller space, like an entry table or nightstand.
- Mix and match themes to create a diverse collection and keep things interesting. I think this is a great way to incorporate family friendly books, like this one and this one, my husbands interests, like this one or this one, and treasured finds from antique or used book stores.
- Place a decorative tray, bowl or vase of flowers on or near your books. I love the uniformed, yet unintentional look of objects mixed in with the books.
Most importantly, open your coffee table books up! Sitting stacked and untouched is not the goal, rather open your favorite books and display a specific page. Arthur loves to flip through and find his favorite pictures. I have and love this acrylic book stand that we use to display our book of the moment.
So, go ahead and express your style, and let your coffee table tell a story that’s uniquely yours. Have fun!
