When it comes to designing your living room, the coffee table is a crucial element that can make or break the space’s overall aesthetic. Not only is your coffee table a functional piece of furniture for holding drinks, snacks, and books, but it can also add style and personality to your room. It says a little something, something about who you are and what’s important to you.
As a Winter Park interior designer with years of experience, we have seen many clients struggle with selecting the right coffee table to enhance their room’s style and functionality. In this post, we will share some key tips on how to choose a coffee table that will elevate the look and feel of your living space. Simple design tips. No fuss!
Consider the size and shape of your room
First, it’s essential to consider the size and shape of your living room. Size does matter. Your coffee table should be proportionate to the room size to avoid feeling out of place or cramped. If you have a larger space, you can opt for a larger coffee table, but make sure it doesn’t overpower the room’s other elements. Conversely, if your living room is petite, you’ll want to choose a coffee table that is compact yet functional.
If you have a small space, you’ll want to choose a coffee table that is proportional to the room. A large coffee table will make the space feel cramped, while a small coffee table will look out of place. If you have a large living room, you can go for a bigger coffee table, but make sure it doesn’t overwhelm the space.
You’ll want at least 3 feet of space around each edge of the coffee table to make movement possible. No one likes to hurdle jump over coffee tables or move the sofa to get in and out. This ain’t an economy class seat on Spirit Airlines.
Think about the style of your room
Next, it’s crucial to factor in the overall style of your living room. Your coffee table should reflect and enhance the room’s theme, whether it’s traditional, modern, or somewhere in between. As an interior designer, we often recommend selecting a coffee table that complements the room’s existing design elements. For example, if you have a living room with a sleek and minimalistic design, consider a coffee table with clean lines and a simple, uncluttered design.
If you have a traditional living room, you may want to choose a coffee table with a classic design. On the other hand, if you have a modern living room, you may want to choose a coffee table with a sleek and minimalistic design. As an interior designer, I often recommend choosing a coffee table that adds contrast to the room. For example, if your living room is mostly white, you can choose a coffee table with a dark wood finish to add some visual interest.
And wouldn’t you know it, we have already discussed the difference between Modern and Traditional styles here. Read more!
Consider the function of your coffee table
Functionality is also critical when selecting a coffee table. Critical! Think about how you intend to use it – do you need a storage solution, or are you looking for a coffee table that can be used as a dining table? As an interior designer, I often recommend choosing a coffee table that is versatile and can serve multiple purposes, especially if you have a smaller living room.
Do you need a coffee table with storage? Do you want a coffee table with wheels that can be easily moved around? Do you need a coffee table that can be used as a dining table? As an interior designer, I always recommend choosing a coffee table that is both stylish and functional. If you have a small living room, a coffee table with storage can be a great way to save space.
Don’t make the mistake of focusing too much on form. Sure the table looks good, but does it actually provide value in its usefulness? We can wax lyrical about form over function for years to come. But for now, our advice when selecting a coffee table is to always err on the side of function over form.
Think about the materials and finishes
The materials and finishes of your coffee table can also make a big impact on your living room’s overall aesthetic. As an interior designer, I recommend selecting high-quality materials that are both durable and visually appealing. Depending on your living room’s style, you can choose from a wide range of materials, from glass and metal to wood and marble.
The materials and finishes of your coffee table can make a big impact on the style of your living room. If you have a rustic living room, you may want to choose a coffee table made of reclaimed wood. If you have a modern living room, you may want to choose a coffee table with a glass top and metal base. As an interior designer, I always recommend choosing materials and finishes that are durable and easy to clean.
Consider the height of your coffee table
Finally, it’s essential to consider the coffee table’s height. It should be at the same height as your sofa or slightly lower, making it easy to reach for drinks and snacks while lounging on the sofa. If the coffee table is too high or low, it can be uncomfortable to use, so finding the right height is critical.
The height of your coffee table is also important to consider. As an interior designer, I recommend choosing a coffee table that is the same height as your sofa or a little lower. This will make it easy for you to reach for your drink or snack while sitting on the sofa. If your coffee table is too high or too low, it can be uncomfortable to use.
A Coffee table is a member of the family
Okay, a little sappy and sentimental for sure, but we do believe that choosing the right coffee table is very important. It’s like bringing a new member into the home. We bet you can even remember some of the coffee tables you had growing up, or just a few years ago. They stick with you forever! Coffee tables are a part of the family so choose wisely!
To sum up our post about selecting the right coffee table. We hope you remember that a crucial part of designing a living room that is both stylish and functional. Keep these key tips in mind when you’re out shopping for yours!