Coffee Table Sizing Confusion, And How to Get It Right

Why choose a good coffee table?

Make tea, watch TV, eat snacks, daydream, chat, show off—everything you need is right next to the coffee table. And you still say it's unimportant?

The right coffee table size

For larger sofas, choose a low coffee table. For smaller sofas, choose a coffee table that's flush with the seat cushions.

Small rectangle: Length 600-750mm, Width 450-600mm, Height 380-500mm;

Large rectangle: Length 1000-1500mm, Width 600-800mm, Height 420-450mm;

Circle: Diameter 750/900/1000mm, Height 420-450mm;

Square: Sides 800/900/1000/1200mm, Height 420-450mm.

So what are the key points when choosing a coffee table?

1. Principle of Similar Curves:

Sofa legs, coffee table legs, and armchair legs should have similar shapes.

If the sofa has no legs, the coffee table can go for a legless cabinet style, or it can follow the armchair's legs.

If the sofa has stainless steel square legs, the coffee table should also have stainless steel square legs.

If the sofa has slender legs, the coffee table can also have slender legs.

2. Optimal Coffee Table Height:

Slightly below the sofa armrests, or even slightly below the sofa cushions;

3. Coffee Table Surface Color:

Either match the floor color or the wall color.

You can also consider the details when choosing a coffee table:

Based on material, coffee tables come in three types: wood, iron, and glass. Wooden coffee tables are stable and elegant, iron coffee tables are luxurious and textured, and glass coffee tables are bright and simple.

The combination of metal and glass creates a bright and spacious feel. A calming, dark-colored wood coffee table is suitable for larger, classical spaces.

4. Consider the size of your space

The size of your space is a key factor in choosing the size and shape of your coffee table. If your space is small, a small oval coffee table is ideal. Its soft shape creates a relaxed and relaxed feel.

For larger spaces, in addition to a large coffee table that complements the main sofa, consider adding taller side tables as functional and decorative coffee tables next to the single chairs in the living room to add interest and variety.

5. Choose an Appropriate Coffee Table Size

The coffee table should be sized appropriately for the sofa and generally shouldn't be too high. The tabletop should be slightly higher than the sofa seat cushions, but not higher than the sofa armrests.

A coffee table shouldn't be too large either; ideally, it should be within 1000cm x 450cm. Larger sizes are unnecessary and take up too much space.

6. Consider Safety

Besides appearance, safety is paramount when choosing a coffee table.

Since a coffee table is placed in a frequently visited area, special attention should be paid to the corners, especially for families with children.

7. Focus on Stability and Mobility

Whether you prioritize stability or mobility when choosing a coffee table depends on its placement.

Generally speaking, a coffee table in front of a sofa isn't likely to be moved frequently, so consider its stability. Small coffee tables placed near the sofa armrests are more likely to be used on the go, so consider models with wheels.

8. Focus on functionality

Beyond its decorative aesthetic, a coffee table should also accommodate items like snacks and small items. Therefore, consider its load-bearing and storage capabilities.

If your room is small, consider purchasing a coffee table with storage capabilities, or one with a certain degree of folding and unfolding functionality, so you can customize it to your guests' needs.

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