Decorative trays are the unsung heroes of home decor. They bring style, order, and functionality to your space, all while making even the simplest items look intentional and elegant. Whether you’re using them on a coffee table, kitchen counter, or bedside table, a beautifully styled tray can add the perfect finishing touch to your room.
In this guide, we’ll explore creative decorative tray styling ideas, the dos and don’ts of arrangement, and tips to customize your trays to suit any space and aesthetic.
1. Why Use Decorative Trays?
Benefits of Decorative Trays
- Organization: Trays keep small items contained and prevent clutter.
- Versatility: They work in any room—living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, or bathrooms.
- Style Statement: Trays add personality and elevate the look of everyday objects.
- Flexibility: Easily swap decor elements seasonally or for special occasions.
- Functionality: Use trays to carry items (e.g., drinks or snacks) or simply to display decor.
2. Choosing the Perfect Tray
Materials and Styles
- Wooden Trays: Bring warmth and work well with farmhouse or rustic decor.
- Metal Trays: Add an industrial or modern edge. Opt for gold or bronze for a luxe look.
- Glass or Mirrored Trays: Perfect for glam or minimalist styles, they reflect light and enhance elegance.
- Rattan or Woven Trays: Ideal for boho or coastal spaces, adding texture and a natural vibe.
- Acrylic Trays: Sleek and contemporary, these work beautifully in modern interiors.
Shapes and Sizes
- Rectangular Trays: Great for coffee tables or long surfaces.
- Round Trays: Best for smaller tables or to soften angular furniture.
- Oversized Trays: Ideal for larger tables, ottomans, or countertops.
3. Decorative Tray Styling Essentials
Key Items to Include
- Layered Elements: Combine various heights, textures, and sizes for visual interest.
- Greenery or Flowers: Add life and color with fresh blooms, faux plants, or even branches.
- Candles: Use pillar candles, votives, or tealights to bring warmth and ambiance.
- Books: Stack a couple of decorative books or coffee table books for a touch of sophistication.
- Personal Touches: Add framed photos, souvenirs, or small mementos to make the tray unique.
- Functional Items: Use trays to hold remote controls, coasters, or kitchen condiments.
4. Tray Styling by Room
1. Coffee Table
- What to Include:
- A stack of books or magazines
- A decorative object like a small sculpture
- A candle or diffuser
- A touch of greenery (e.g., a small potted plant)
Example Arrangement
- Place a small vase with fresh flowers in one corner.
- Add a stack of two books with a candle on top in another.
- Fill the empty space with a decorative bowl for a balanced look.
2. Kitchen
- What to Include:
- Olive oil, salt, and pepper shakers in pretty containers
- Small cutting board or wooden spoon
- A jar of fresh herbs or faux greenery
Example Arrangement
- Use a round wooden tray on your countertop.
- Group a bottle of olive oil, a pepper grinder, and a small plant.
- Add a linen napkin for texture.
3. Bedroom
- What to Include:
- A small lamp or candle
- A trinket dish for jewelry
- A framed photo or tiny potted plant
Example Arrangement
- On a nightstand, use a rectangular tray to hold a candle, a ring dish, and a mini vase of flowers.
- Leave room for practical items like a book or your phone charger.
4. Bathroom
- What to Include:
- Rolled towels or washcloths
- A soap dish or pump
- A small jar of cotton balls or bath salts
Example Arrangement
- Use a mirrored or acrylic tray to group hand soap, lotion, and a small plant.
- Add a rolled hand towel for a spa-like vibe.
5. Dining Table
- What to Include:
- A centerpiece like a floral arrangement or bowl of fruit
- Candlesticks or votives
- Seasonal decor (e.g., pinecones in winter, fresh flowers in spring)
Example Arrangement
- Use a round tray as the base for a vase of flowers.
- Add two candlesticks on either side for balance.
- Scatter a few smaller decorative objects like mini pumpkins or ornaments for a seasonal touch.
5. Tips for Styling Like a Pro
1. Create Layers
- Combine items of varying heights and textures.
- Use books or boxes to elevate smaller items for added dimension.
2. Stick to a Color Palette
- Choose 2–3 complementary colors to tie the elements together.
- For example, use white, gold, and green for a classic and elegant look.
3. Rule of Thirds
- Arrange items in groups of three or odd numbers for a more dynamic, natural feel.
4. Add Texture
- Mix smooth surfaces (e.g., glass or metal) with textured ones (e.g., wood or fabric).
5. Keep It Balanced
- Avoid overcrowding. Leave some negative space on the tray for a clean, polished look.
6. Seasonal Decorative Tray Ideas
Fall Tray Styling
- Add mini pumpkins, pinecones, and a plaid napkin.
- Use warm colors like orange, brown, and gold.
Winter Tray Styling
- Include candles, faux snow, and ornaments.
- Stick to cool tones like white, silver, and blue for a wintery feel.
Spring Tray Styling
- Use fresh flowers, pastel candles, and small ceramic bunnies.
- Incorporate light colors like blush pink, mint green, and soft yellow.
Summer Tray Styling
- Add seashells, a small lantern, and tropical greenery.
- Use bright colors like aqua, coral, and white.
7. DIY Decorative Tray Ideas
1. Painted Tray
- Use an old wooden or metal tray and give it a fresh coat of paint in your favorite color.
- Add stenciled designs or patterns for a unique touch.
2. Mirrored Tray
- Attach a mirror to the bottom of a wooden or metal tray for a glam, reflective surface.
3. Rustic Tray
- Create a DIY tray from pallet wood or reclaimed wood.
- Leave it unfinished or apply a light stain for a farmhouse look.
4. Personalized Tray
- Use a Cricut machine or stencils to add a monogram or custom phrase like “Home Sweet Home.”
8. Maintenance and Care
- Clean Regularly: Dust and wipe down trays often to keep them looking their best.
- Use Coasters: Protect trays from spills or water damage by using coasters or liners.
- Update Seasonally: Swap out decor items to keep the tray fresh and relevant.
FAQs: Decorative Tray Styling
1. What size tray should I use for a coffee table?
Choose a tray that’s about 1/3 to 1/2 the size of your coffee table for balance.
2. How do I style a tray for a small space?
Keep it minimal by including only 2–3 items, such as a candle, a small plant, and a book.
3. Can I use a tray on an ottoman?
Yes! Use a sturdy tray to hold decor or drinks while adding functionality to your ottoman.
4. What’s the best material for a durable tray?
Wood and metal trays are durable and versatile, while acrylic and glass are better for light use.
5. How do I prevent trays from scratching surfaces?
Attach felt pads or rubber bumpers to the bottom of the tray.
6. Can I layer multiple trays?
Yes! Use a smaller tray inside a larger one to create sections or layers.
7. What’s the easiest way to style a tray?
Stick to the essentials: a candle, greenery, and a small decorative object.
8. How can I make a tray multifunctional?
Use it to hold both decor and practical items like remotes, keys, or mail.
9. Are mirrored trays hard to maintain?
Not necessarily. Clean them with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to avoid smudges.
10. Can I style a tray with seasonal decor?
Absolutely! Swap out items like flowers, ornaments, or mini pumpkins to reflect the season.
With these decorative tray styling tips, you can add personality and organization to any space in your home. Whether you’re going for rustic farmhouse charm, sleek modern vibes, or cozy seasonal accents, a well-styled tray can make all the difference! 🛋️✨