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Are you looking for easy ways to style an end table in your coastal living room? When it comes to end table decor, I think less is more. In this post, I am sharing how to style a coastal end table with a few simple decor ideas.
Whether you are decorating one or several end tables in your family room, these ideas and tips will help guide you so that your end tables look stylish and cohesive with the rest of the room.
What Should You Display on End Tables?
In general, I think less is more when it comes to end table decor, especially if you want it to be one of your functional pieces of furniture. Choosing end table decor also depends on the size and overall style of the end table. These are a few decorative items that will work on pretty much any end table, either by themselves or styled together.
Lamps
Lamps are always a practical choice since they are both functional and decorative. You can even use a lamp without an outlet nearby by cutting the cord and using a rechargeable lightbulb.
Because of the smaller size of this end table from Target, I chose to style it with only the lamp on top so I still have room for remote controls or a drink. I love that it has a shelf underneath which is the perfect place for additional storage or styling.
Coffee Table Books
Coffee table books are essential for styling end tables, console tables, and coffee tables. They add height and visual interest and can help style other decor as well. Coffee table books add a unique look and pop of color to a living space because you can choose ones that reflect your tastes and interests.
Some of my favorite coffee table books are by Mark D. Sikes and Gray Malin. Amazon is a great place to buy coffee table books because they are usually discounted or you can buy them used – like new. You can also find good deals on coffee table books at HomeGoods and thrift stores.
Picture Frames
Picture frames are another great way to add personal touches to your space. I like using acrylic ones like this on side tables that are not up against a wall so no matter where you look at it, you aren’t seeing the back of the frame.
A few ways to style a picture frame on an end table are on a stack of books, next to a lamp, or with other decor items like a ginger jar or vase.
Tips for Styling a Coastal End Table
My favorite way to style an end table is with odd numbers, either 1 or 3 smaller items. If you are using 1 item, I prefer something that makes a statement, like a table lamp or a tray. Trays also serve a functional purpose since they can protect the table top from spills and other wear and tear.
If you are using 3 items, I recommend following a visual triangle. A visual triangle means the tallest item is placed in the middle with items of varying heights and sizes — for example, a tall lamp in the middle with a picture frame and a small plant on either side. This is one of the general rules by interior designers to give your side table a cohesive look.
Favorite End Tables for a Coastal Home
Don’t have an end table or want to upgrade yours? I have included 5 of my favorite end table styles for all budgets!
1. Costa Mesa Round Rattan Wrapped Accent Table
This is the end table I have and love in my living room. It is inspired by a designer version that costs ten times more but is still amazing quality at a great price.
Rattan is the perfect material to use in a coastal living room. I love the natural feel and it doesn’t require much styling since the end table makes a statement by itself. It goes in and out of stock, so turn on your restock notifications or keep an eye on my Instagram page for updates.
2. Mordcha 2 Shelf Side Table
What caught my eye about this end table is the two shelves and white-washed finish with the raffia inserts. I love the idea of a stack of coffee table books on the bottom shelf with a decorative dish or bowl on the other. You could even leave the top empty and keep it functional for easy access. If you like this design style but are looking for an end table with a drawer, this one is from the same collection!
3. Cabo Woven Rattan End Table
This scalloped end table is definitely on my wishlist. My favorite decorative elements are scallops and rattan, so combining them is a dream. While it is more expensive, it is a budget friendly option for this style. I love that it also comes in both a blue and a white.
4. Apis Light Natural Raffia 2-Shelf Bookcase Accent Table
This square end table is one of the most budget-friendly options. You can find it at several online retailers, but Amazon typically has the best price and offers free shipping. The best thing about this end table is that it is by a highly rated brand and bonus points – it comes fully assembled.
5. Ogden Burled Wood Accent Table – Threshold™ designed with Studio McGee
I love to use light wood tones like this burled wood end table in a coastal living room. I own and love the console table from this collection, and it is one of my most asked-about pieces. Burled wood is a great choice if you are looking for modern end tables. My favorite place to find affordable burled wood furniture is Target.
The Ultimate Guide – Coastal End Table Styling Essentials
Sources:
Scalloped Side Table // Color Block Vase // 2 Shelf Side Table // Green & White Tray // Charm School Book // Rattan Side Table // Cordless Lamp // White Planter // Burlwood Tray // Scallop Frame // Martini Table // Green Candle // Blue Lamp
Conclusion
Styling an end table may seem overwhelming but you only need a few smaller decorative objects like a lamp, coffee table books, and picture frames to complete the look. Chances are you already have some of these home decor items that you may be able to use from other spaces in your home.
If you prefer a more minimalistic look, use a table with interesting details or natural elements like raffia and rattan so you don’t need as much decor. Most importantly, choose pieces you love that reflect you and your own personal style.
