Nesting tables are a versatile and stylish furniture choice that can enhance the aesthetic of any room. They consist of a set of tables, typically three, that can be easily stacked or used individually, making them a practical solution for both maximizing space and adding a design flair. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist modern look or a more eclectic decor style, nesting tables can be styled to suit your needs. This guide will walk you through how to style nesting tables, ensuring they complement your existing furnishings while adding functional elegance.

Importance of Styling Nesting Tables
Styling nesting tables is vital for elevating the overall look and functionality of your living space. These tables offer more than just practicality; they present an opportunity to create a cohesive design narrative in a room. Properly styled nesting tables can act as focal points or subtly blend with other elements, depending on your preference.
By strategically placing decorative items, you can draw attention to specific areas of a room, adding depth and dimension to your decor. Furthermore, well-styled nesting tables can enhance the utility of a space, providing additional surfaces for displaying art pieces, books, or even serving as improvised workspaces. Thoughtful styling ensures that these tables not only meet your functional needs but also contribute significantly to the ambiance and esthetic of your home.
Benefits of Nesting Tables in Home Decor
Nesting tables offer a myriad of benefits in home decor, making them an ideal choice for any living space. One of their most significant advantages is their space-saving design. These tables can be easily stacked when not in use, freeing up floor space and making them perfect for small rooms or apartments. This flexibility allows them to be rearranged effortlessly, adapting to different needs whether for entertaining guests or everyday use.
Additionally, nesting tables add layers to your decor, introducing varying heights and textures that can enhance the visual interest of a room. They are also highly functional, providing extra surfaces for lamps, plants, or beverages. Their versatility means you can easily transform the look of a space by swapping out the table arrangement or changing the items they display.

Choosing the Right Style for Nesting Tables
Selecting the perfect style for your nesting tables is a crucial step in ensuring they harmonize with your existing interior design. Start by considering the theme and color palette of your room. If your space has a contemporary vibe, opt for nesting tables with sleek, clean lines and minimalist finishes such as glass or metal.
For a more rustic or traditional setting, wooden nesting tables with intricate craftsmanship or distressed finishes may fit seamlessly. It’s also essential to think about the materials and shapes that best complement your space. Round tables can soften a room’s edges, while square or rectangular tables may provide a more structured look. Additionally, consider the scale of the tables relative to your room size; larger tables might overwhelm a small area, while smaller ones may get lost in a spacious room.
10 Methods How to Style Nesting Tables
1. Layer with Decorative Objects for a Tiered Effect
Nesting tables are naturally designed to provide layers, making them perfect for tiered arrangements of decorative objects. Start by placing the tallest items, such as a vase with fresh flowers or a sculptural piece, on the highest table. Add medium-sized items like candles, books, or a decorative bowl to the middle table, and use the lowest table for small accents like coasters or trinkets. This layering technique highlights the nested structure of the tables while maintaining visual harmony and balance.
2. Separate and Use Across the Room

While nesting tables are often displayed together, they can be separated and styled individually to serve different purposes in a room. For example, place the largest table beside the sofa as a side table, use the medium-sized one as a plant stand in a corner, and keep the smallest table near a reading chair for holding a cup of coffee. By dispersing the tables, you create functional yet coordinated points of interest throughout the space.
3. Create a Cohesive Color Scheme
When styling nesting tables, use decorative items that align with a cohesive color palette. Choose complementary or analogous colors to tie the tables together visually. For instance, place a blue ceramic vase on one table, pair it with a stack of books in similar shades on another, and add a small sculpture in a contrasting neutral tone. This method unifies the arrangement while letting the tables remain distinct.
4. Use as a Display for Collectibles
Nesting tables provide an excellent platform for showcasing collections. Arrange a series of similar items, such as vintage cameras, glass figurines, or ceramic bowls, across the three tables. Vary the heights of the collectibles to create visual interest, and ensure the arrangement is uncluttered to highlight each piece. This approach turns the tables into a mini-gallery, adding a personal and artistic touch to your decor.
5. Add Greenery for Natural Appeal
Incorporating plants into your nesting table styling brings freshness and vibrancy to the space. Use the tallest table for a large potted plant, such as a fiddle-leaf fig or monstera, and place smaller plants, like succulents or ferns, on the lower tables. For variety, mix textures by combining leafy plants with spiky or trailing ones. Greenery softens the hard edges of the tables and adds an organic element that complements most interior styles.
6. Incorporate Lighting for Functionality
Lighting can transform nesting tables into functional and aesthetic focal points. Place a sleek table lamp or a stylish lantern on the largest table to provide illumination and draw attention to the arrangement. Use smaller candles or string lights on the other tables for a cozy, ambient glow. Layered lighting not only enhances the utility of the tables but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere in the room.
7. Stack Books for a Chic Look

Books are a timeless styling choice for nesting tables, adding a sophisticated and cozy vibe to your decor. Stack hardcover books on each table, varying their sizes to create dimension. Top the stacks with small decorative items like a candle, a mini plant, or a figurine for added interest. This method works particularly well in living rooms or home offices, where books serve as both decor and conversation starters.
8. Embrace Minimalism for a Clean Look
For a sleek and minimalist aesthetic, limit the number of items displayed on your nesting tables. Opt for one or two statement pieces, such as a bold sculpture or an elegant tray. Leave ample space around the objects to let the clean lines of the tables shine. This approach is ideal for modern or Scandinavian interiors, where simplicity and functionality are key.
9. Use Trays for Organization and Style
Decorative trays are a practical and stylish way to organize items on nesting tables. Choose a tray that fits the size of the table and complements its material or color. Use the tray to group smaller items like candles, coasters, or decorative bowls, keeping the arrangement tidy and visually appealing. Trays can also add a layer of texture or color, enhancing the overall styling of the tables.
10. Combine Textures for Visual Interest

Mixing textures is a great way to add depth and intrigue to your nesting table styling. Pair the smooth surface of the tables with contrasting elements like woven baskets, ceramic vases, or metallic objects. For example, place a glass bowl on one table, a wooden sculpture on another, and a soft fabric runner on the third. The interplay of textures draws the eye and elevates the tables from simple furniture to design statements.
Things to Consider When Choosing Nesting Tables
When selecting nesting tables for your space, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure they complement your decor and meet your needs. First, consider the size of the tables in relation to your room’s dimensions. They should fit comfortably without overwhelming the space or appearing too small.
Additionally, think about the material and finish of the tables—whether you prefer the warmth of wood, the modern look of metal, or the elegance of glass, each option can significantly impact the room’s style. Functionality is another essential aspect; contemplate how you’ll use the tables, whether for display, storage, or additional surface space. Finally, consider the ease of movement and adaptability, as the beauty of nesting tables lies in their versatility and ability to be rearranged effortlessly within the room.
Conclusion
Nesting tables are a versatile and stylish addition to any home, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Their ability to fit seamlessly into various spaces and styles makes them an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their interior design. By carefully selecting the right size, material, and finish, and creatively styling the tables, you can transform a simple piece of furniture into a standout feature that reflects your personal taste.
Whether used for display, storage, or as an extra surface, nesting tables provide a balance of form and function that caters to diverse needs and preferences. Embrace the endless possibilities they offer to create a harmonious and inviting living space. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to style nesting tables!