The Coffee Tables Guide

The centerpiece of your living room, a coffee table has a lot to live up to in terms of both form and function. Finding a table that looks good is just one piece of the puzzle—you’ll also want to make sure that it works well alongside your sofa or chairs (a height match here is crucial), and fits into your available space. And, of course, it should provide the right amount of utility to withstand whatever your daily routine entails; start by getting very honest with yourself about how you intend to use your coffee table. Are you someone who likes to snack or have meals while watching TV? Do you use your coffee table as a footrest? Or are you looking for a piece that will be used primarily for showcasing books or keepsakes?

With these factors in mind, you’ll be ready to start shopping.

Size

Choosing the best size coffee table for your living room is largely dependent on the size of any surrounding furniture—particularly your sofa—and what space is left available.

Length

Proportion here is key: your coffee table should be slightly less long than the length of your sofa. If it’s too much shorter or longer, it will look out of balance.