Elements to consider when choosing a coffee table

First, the golden rule: a coffee table shouldn’t be more than ½ to ⅔ the length of your sofa seat (not the entire sofa). This is usually helpful when you have other elements to consider, such as an accent chair or ottoman.

See in this photo how the coffee table is positioned accordingly to create a perfect balance between the living room elements:

Getting excited? Okay, let’s keep on doing this!

The second element to consider is more of a question…do you live in an apartment, Townhouse, or family home? Space is so important when it comes to decorating. We don’t want to throw an element that will unbalance your house or the functionality of the coffee table. 

Third, and kind of goes with the previous two: your sofa style. You want your coffee table to fit accordingly to the main star in your room:

• Traditional Sofas usually go best with a rectangle coffee table, which is the most common shape. It imitates the shape of the sofa, which creates a well-balanced and coordinated space. Take a look at the following room, how the color of the table creates a perfect symmetry with the rest of the elements. 

Tip: If you want to mix things up, you can try matching an oval table with your traditional sofa, always remember to keep in mind the golden rule we’ve mentioned before.

• Sectionals, usually go best with round tables, allowing you to play with all the aspects of your room, and let’s be honest, they complement each other so well. You can try as well an oval-shaped table and it will be a perfect match as well! 
  

• If you own a loveseat or a sofa, you can create a statement by choosing a square table that will become the center of attention when you walk into a room. With these types of sofas, you can consider a small round table as well and they’re kid-friendly too! If you’re feeling bold, try mixing two small rectangular ones and see how much more space you can get for decorating or entertaining your guests!
  

Photo credits: https://natalieyerger.com/

• L-shaped sectionals can vary in size, but you want to keep your choices narrowed to round and square coffee tables, that way you have specific shapes that you can match your sofa size to perfection.

How to choose the right material for my coffee table?

The answer would be depending on your interior design style. Coffee tables come in many shapes, sizes, and materials all of which can adapt to the look you’re looking for. If you need an extra hand figuring out what is your interior design style, I can help you, with my consultation, Designer for a Day service, or start by booking a free call here!

Now let’s talk materials and their functionality.

• Wood: This is the most common material and one that offers the most amount of diversity according to the style you’re looking for. You can’t go wrong with this choice, as it will most likely accentuate your living or family room and create a cozy and beautiful space
• Glass: They look so pretty and are very easy to clean. You can add certain elements such as books, flowers, candles, or highlight your rug to create a more stylized look and it will make so much difference!
• Marble: This material it’s just beautiful by itself. It will certainly become the eyes of the room and create a modern and graceful space.
• Acrylic: Are you going for a modern look? This is the way to go! They usually come in several shapes and sizes, allowing you to play with the different elements in your room, including art or sculptures.
• Natural Material Tables: If your style is more inclined towards boho, you should consider adding a natural material table to your room. Usually made of rattan and seagrass, gives a sense of uniqueness and creativity.

I hope this was helpful! Let me know in the comments below which coffee table are you choosing or if you want to share some of your pictures, that will be great! Feel free to contact me at jen@aninspiringhome.com and follow me on social media.

Ready to make the jump? Here are some of my favorite coffee tables I recommend. Shop them using the link below.

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