Tips on Buying a New Coffee Table
We've got the lowdown on all you need to know.
How to choose the right one A coffee table can affect the look and feel of a living room, so it's important to choose the right one for you.
Here's a list of points to consider before you buy.
What will it be used for If you'll be using it to serve refreshments and snacks then it will need to be a robust design with a sturdy surface, that can easily be reached from the sofa.
Stacks of large books make a stylish display and create a focal point in the room.
If this is your plan, then a wide, low table is your best option.
They are ideal for storing unsightly clutter like remote controls, magazines and newspapers, so choose one with plenty of drawers and shelves.
Some have a glass surface to show the shelf below and are ideal for creating an interesting display of your favourite collectables.
Size and shape Choosing the right size of coffee table is very important so that it works in harmony with the rest of your living room furniture.
Too small, and it will look odd and impractical.
Too large, and it will look out of place.
As a general rule it should be 3/4 of the length of the sofa so it doesn't feel dwarfed, and you should allow plenty of space to walk around the table, otherwise the room will feel cramped.
Think about the height.
A low table will make it awkward to serve refreshments, while a table too high might interfere with the view of the TV.
What design to choose Pick a design that works with the rest of scheme.
For example, if you have other pieces of wooden furniture around the room, choose one to match or opt for a table that's neutral, like white or glass, so it will blend in.
Traditional living rooms would benefit from a formal style, with decorative touches such as a glass top.
In modern living rooms, a sleek one with simple styling will work well.
Glass or perspex styles add a minimal feel and are a great solution in smaller rooms as they allow the floor space to been seen all the way around.
Other Options Large upholstered footstools can double up as a coffee table and extra seating, but make sure the fabric is washable in case drinks get spilled.
An old trunk or suitcase can make a vintage-style one and provide deep storage for bulky items like magazines or floor cushions.
Using several small tables in a row is a stylish and versatile option as they can then be moved to differnet positions around the room.
How to choose the right one A coffee table can affect the look and feel of a living room, so it's important to choose the right one for you.
Here's a list of points to consider before you buy.
What will it be used for If you'll be using it to serve refreshments and snacks then it will need to be a robust design with a sturdy surface, that can easily be reached from the sofa.
Stacks of large books make a stylish display and create a focal point in the room.
If this is your plan, then a wide, low table is your best option.
They are ideal for storing unsightly clutter like remote controls, magazines and newspapers, so choose one with plenty of drawers and shelves.
Some have a glass surface to show the shelf below and are ideal for creating an interesting display of your favourite collectables.
Size and shape Choosing the right size of coffee table is very important so that it works in harmony with the rest of your living room furniture.
Too small, and it will look odd and impractical.
Too large, and it will look out of place.
As a general rule it should be 3/4 of the length of the sofa so it doesn't feel dwarfed, and you should allow plenty of space to walk around the table, otherwise the room will feel cramped.
Think about the height.
A low table will make it awkward to serve refreshments, while a table too high might interfere with the view of the TV.
What design to choose Pick a design that works with the rest of scheme.
For example, if you have other pieces of wooden furniture around the room, choose one to match or opt for a table that's neutral, like white or glass, so it will blend in.
Traditional living rooms would benefit from a formal style, with decorative touches such as a glass top.
In modern living rooms, a sleek one with simple styling will work well.
Glass or perspex styles add a minimal feel and are a great solution in smaller rooms as they allow the floor space to been seen all the way around.
Other Options Large upholstered footstools can double up as a coffee table and extra seating, but make sure the fabric is washable in case drinks get spilled.
An old trunk or suitcase can make a vintage-style one and provide deep storage for bulky items like magazines or floor cushions.
Using several small tables in a row is a stylish and versatile option as they can then be moved to differnet positions around the room.
