Key Takeaways
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Anchor your coffee table with a tray to keep decor organized.
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Add seasonal accents like pumpkins, candles, lanterns, and faux florals.
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Balance beauty with function by leaving open space.
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Mix heights, textures and finishes for visual interest.
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Include personal touches to make the look feel authentic.
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Swap items as the season progresses to keep your display current.
The coffee table is often the centerpiece of the living room. This is the place where decor meets practicality. During fall, it takes on even more importance, anchoring cozy evenings with family, movie marathons or a warm mug of cider. Styling your coffee table for fall doesn’t just elevate the look of your living room; it sets the tone for the entire season. The good news? You don’t need a complete overhaul! With a few seasonal accents and thoughtful layering, your coffee table can be both functional and stylish for all your fall nights in. Here’s what the decorating pros here at Third & Main suggest.
Start with a Base
Every styled coffee table needs a base to anchor the design. A tray is the easiest way to add structure while keeping things organized. Choose a tray in a seasonal material like rustic wood, woven rattan, or metal with a matte finish. Not only does it corral smaller items, but it also provides a backdrop that makes your decor pop.
Add Seasonal Accents
Fall decor shines when you mix warm colors, cozy textures and natural elements. Some easy additions:
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Pumpkins. Faux or real, in a variety of sizes. White and neutral pumpkins feel modern, while orange brings traditional warmth.
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Candles. Opt for amber, vanilla or spiced scents to add cozy lighting and seasonal fragrance.
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Lanterns. A small lantern with a pillar candle can add height and interest.
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Faux florals. Eucalyptus stems, wheat or deep-toned hydrangeas in a vase bring softness and color (and True Bloom Floral, exclusively at Third & Main, has the best selection of realistic looking stems!).
Keep It Functional
A coffee table should look beautiful but still work for everyday living. Leave space for mugs, remotes or books. Trays are helpful for this, since they can be easily moved aside when you need more room. Balance decorative items with open space so the table feels inviting, not cluttered.
Play with Height and Texture
The most stylish coffee tables mix items of different heights and textures. Try pairing a tall vase of faux florals with a medium-sized pumpkin and a low candle. Combine smooth glass or ceramic accents with woven baskets or rough wood trays, and use a mix of matte and shiny finishes to keep the eye moving. The Rule of Three works beautifully here! Group three items (or five, or seven—just keep the number odd) of varying heights together for a polished look.
Make It Personal
Don’t forget the personal touch! This is what makes the whole thing memorable. Add a stack of your favorite books, a framed family photo or a decorative object that reflects your personality. Mixing personal items with seasonal decor keeps your table from looking too staged.
Swap with the Season
The beauty of coffee table decor is that it’s so easy to change. As fall progresses, you can swap bright pumpkins for richer tones, add a garland for Thanksgiving or introduce twinkling lights as winter approaches. Keeping your display flexible ensures your space always feels fresh.
Bringing It All Together with Third & Main
At Third & Main, we believe seasonal styling should feel effortless yet elevated. With the right mix of trays, faux florals, candles and personal accents, your coffee table becomes more than just a surface—it becomes a statement piece that reflects the beauty of fall and the warmth of your home. And when you lean on our curated decor collections, you’ll always have timeless pieces at your fingertips to refresh your space, season after season. So pour that cider, light a candle and settle in—your perfectly styled fall nights start right here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I put on my coffee table for fall?
Pumpkins, candles, lanterns, faux florals and cozy accents like small trays or books are all perfect fall coffee table pieces.
How do I keep my coffee table from looking cluttered?
Use a tray to group items and limit décor to three or four main accents. Always leave open space for function.
Do I have to use traditional orange tones?
Not at all! Neutrals, metallics or jewel tones can create a modern fall look while still feeling seasonal.
Can I decorate a small coffee table?
Definitely. Just stick to one or two seasonal accents, like a candle and a pumpkin, and keep scale in mind.