Ideas for Occasional Table Decorations

Books

• People often think of books being used as decorations on a coffee table. However, get away from that standard decor idea, and decorate a smaller table, such as an end table, with books. Select a variety of hardback books that you enjoy. The books should be roughly the same size. Stack them with their bindings showing so that your guests can see the titles.

Vases

• Use empty vases to decorate an occasional table. Select vases that are painted the same color or are made of the same material but have varying sizes and shapes. Place the vases on the table top closely together. They should take up most of the space on the interior of the small table but should not appear to be crowding the table.

Lamp

• Lamps are often used as decorations for occasional tabletops. However, with a lamp that has an interesting look, you can make the occasional table appear contemporary. For example, choose a lamp with an architectural base or an oversize shade. The lamp should look just as good when it is off as it does when it is on.

Tray

• Display a large tray as the decoration for your coffee table. Choose a tray made of wood or rattan, and place it to the side of your coffee table or dead in the center. Place a vase of flowers on the tray, along with other things that people typically like to have in their living rooms, such as a set of coasters and a few magazines. Displaying these items on an attractive tray will make them look less like clutter and more like decor.