Choosing the Perfect Coffee Table for Your Living Room: Expert Tips
When it comes to designing a living room, the coffee table often serves as the centerpiece that ties the entire space together. As a furniture designer, I have found it rewarding to see how the right coffee table can elevate a room’s aesthetic and functionality. Here are some expert tips to help you choose the perfect coffee table for your living room.
1. Consider the Size and Scale
One of the most important factors to consider is the size of your coffee table. It should be proportionate to the size of your living room and the furniture around it. A coffee table that’s too large can overwhelm the space, while one that’s too small can look out of place. As a rule of thumb, your coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa. Additionally, ensure there’s enough space around the table for easy movement—ideally, 18 inches between the table and the surrounding furniture. Remember, you don’t want to turn your living room into an obstacle course! The standard height for a coffee table is usually between 16 to 18 inches, but this can vary depending on the height of your sofa. The walnut coffee table pictured below is approximately 15” high. I built it for a client based on their desire for a Wabi Sabi-style table, which often has a lower height.
2. Think About Functionality
Your coffee table should not only look good but also serve a purpose. Think about how you plan to use it. Do you need extra storage for magazines, remote controls, or other items? If so, consider a coffee table with built-in storage options like drawers or shelves. If you often entertain guests, a larger surface area might be beneficial for holding drinks and snacks. For those with small children, a table with rounded edges can be a safer choice, most of us as parents already own enough shares in Band-Aid Corporation!
3. Choose the Right Shape
The shape of your coffee table can influence the flow and feel of your living room. Oval tables are a classic choice that work well with most sofa shapes, and also happen to be in style right now! Round or square tables can create a more intimate and cozy atmosphere, especially in smaller spaces. If you have a modern home where the design lines are crisp and geometric, a round, oval or kidney shaped table can help balance the angular lines and bring an inviting organic element into the room. This can be a great way to draw people into community as they gather to relax.
LAYERS Coffee Table, hand-shaped from Spanish Cedar wood. Dimensions: 55”L x 38”W x 18”H
4. Pay Attention to Material and Finish
The material and finish of your coffee table can significantly impact the overall look of your living room. Wood is a popular choice for its warmth and versatility, fitting well with both traditional and modern interiors. Glass tables can make a small room feel more open and airy, while metal tables add a touch of industrial chic. Consider the existing decor and color scheme of your room when choosing the material and finish. For a cohesive look, try to match or complement the other furniture pieces in the room. Just remember, a glass table might not be the best choice if you have a habit of putting your feet up!
5. Reflect Your Personal Style
Ultimately, your coffee table should reflect your personal style and taste. Whether you prefer a minimalist design, a vintage look, or something more eclectic, there’s a coffee table out there that will suit your preferences. Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles—sometimes, a contrasting coffee table can become a striking focal point in your living room. And hey, if you love it, who cares if the table doesn’t match the drapes?
Black Walnut Coffee Table with tapered legs. Dimensions: 54.5 x 38.5” x 18”H
6. Practicality
Ensure the table is sturdy and well-constructed, especially if you plan to use it frequently. You don’t want your coffee table collapsing under the weight of the Tolstoy tomes that you intentionally placed there to impress your date.
7. Why Courage Wood Studio Wood Coffee Tables Are a Great Option
Wood coffee tables are a timeless choice that can suit a variety of interior styles. Here’s why they might just be the best option for your living room:
Versatility: Wood comes in many types and finishes, from smoked oak to rich natural walnut, making it easy to find a table that matches your decor. With over a quarter-century of experience in designing and shaping wood, we are open to trying any new and exciting form or design.
Durability: A well-made wood coffee table can last for centuries, standing up well to daily use and the occasional spill. We use kiln-dried lumber, so the wood is table and less susceptible to changes in humidity and temperature. Each piece of lumber is hand-selected for it’s workability and beautiful grain patterns. We use traditional forms of wood joinery to ensure that your furniture piece is rock solid.
Warmth: Wood adds a natural warmth to any room, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It is especially impactful where a modern, bright home creates the perfect canvas for an organic element, transforming your living room into a welcoming retreat.
Eco-Friendly: At Courage Wood Studio, our wood coffee tables are made from sustainably sourced and salvaged lumber. We finish the tables with Rubio Monocoat, a VOC-free, stain-resistant wood finish developed in Belgium.
Easy Maintenance: Our wood tables are relatively easy to maintain. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth can keep them looking great, and an occasional application of Rubio Maintenance Oil can restore the shine, if needed. Coasters are not necessary for a hot cup of coffee with the Rubio finish, but your OCD may still compel you to try out those new coasters made from recycled Blundstones that you purchased from a man-bunned hipster at your local farmer’s market.
Choosing the right coffee table is an essential step in creating a harmonious and functional living room. By considering size, functionality, shape, material, and personal style, you can find a coffee table that not only enhances your space but also meets your needs. I am happy to collaborate with you remotely or by in-person appointment at our studio to design the perfect wood coffee table for your space!
Cheers,
Andy G
