CHOOSING THE RIGHT COFFEE TABLE FOR YOUR SPACE
A coffee table may seem like a simple piece of furniture, but in reality, it’s one of the hardest-working elements in your living room. It anchors the space, influences flow, provides function, and plays a huge role in your overall aesthetic. The right table enhances your seating arrangement and elevates the entire room, while the wrong one can throw off the balance instantly.
Here’s how to choose a coffee table that feels perfectly proportioned, practical, and beautifully aligned with your home’s style.
1. Consider the Size of Your Space
Scale is everything. If your coffee table is too small, the room feels empty; too large, and the space becomes cramped.
As a guide:
Aim for a coffee table that’s about two-thirds the length of your sofa.
Leave 40–50cm of space between the table and your sofa or armchairs for comfortable walking flow.
For larger rooms, don’t be afraid to size up. Oversized tables often make a living space feel more intentional and grounded.
2. Choose the Right Shape
Shape influences flow and energy within a room.
Round Coffee Tables: Perfect for tight spaces, curved sofas, or rooms where you want to soften sharper architectural lines. They add movement and are great for family-friendly layouts.
Rectangle Coffee Tables: A classic choice for long sofas or L-shaped sectionals. They maximise surface area and maintain a clean, linear look.
Square Coffee Tables: Ideal for symmetrical layouts or paired sofas. They create balance and work beautifully in oversized living areas.
Oval or Organic-Shaped Tables: Sculptural and modern, these are perfect for breaking up monotony and adding softness to minimalist interiors.
3. Think About Height
A coffee table should feel cohesive with your seating.
General rule:
Choose a table that’s the same height as your sofa seat or up to 3–5cm lower. Anything too high looks visually heavy, and anything too low becomes impractical.
4. Choose Materials That Match Your Style
The material of your coffee table sets the tone for the entire room.
Stone (Travertine, Marble, Quartzite): Timeless, sculptural, and luxurious, perfect for modern and organic interiors.
Timber: Adds instant warmth and texture. Works beautifully with boucle sofas and neutral palettes.
Glass: Minimalist and light. Great for smaller spaces or when you want to keep the room feeling open.
Matte Black / Metal: Adds contrast and a modern edge; ties in with black hardware or architectural lines.
Upholstered Ottomans: Practical, soft, and cozy, especially in family spaces. Style with a tray for surface functionality. Choose a material that feels harmonious with your existing palette and finishes.
5. Consider Function Alongside Aesthetics
How will you use your coffee table?
Do you need storage? Opt for drawers or lower shelves.
Love to entertain? Choose a large surface for styling, drinks, and snacks.
Have young kids? Rounded edges or soft materials work best.
Minimalist at heart? Keep the table sleek and clean-lined to maintain visual calm.
6. Style It With Intention
A coffee table is the perfect place to express personality through styling.
Use a mix of:
Books
Sculptural objects
Ceramics
Natural elements (flowers, greenery, branches)
Candles
A tray for structure
Remember: leave some negative space so the surface doesn’t feel overcrowded. Beautiful styling is about balance, height variation, and texture, not clutter.