Coffee Tables and Trunks

There is a lot to consider before deciding on the perfect coffee table for your living room. The shape and scale of the table are one of the most important factors. Round coffee tables generally take less space and allow more space to move around freely, which could be a desirable trait in smaller spaces. Sleek round coffee tables that are stackable also add a touch of visual softness and help create a cohesive and cozy space. Whereas rectangular and square coffee tables take more space but also add a more robust structure to the setting. They can easily complement the geometry of any large structural spaces and add a more functional look. In the end, the choice comes down to personal preferences and your home’s aesthetic.

As such, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to coffee tables. However, in most settings an ideal coffee table’s height ranges from 16” to 18”, and its width ranges from 18” to 24”. This dimension is based on the simple understanding that a coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of a standard sofa, so as to be comfortably within an arm's reach. Generally, modern coffee tables are placed approximately within 14 inches from the sofa and often at a lower height than the sofa itself.

The sky really is the limit, when looking for ways to decorate your coffee table. An important thing to consider is that the styling should ideally have a good balance between the aesthetics and functionality. Firstly, select an overall theme or colour palette. Then choose a combination of pragmatic and playful pieces such as a tray or trinket, a few aromatic candles, a small vase for succulents and a couple of your favourite books or magazines. You could also incorporate a mix of family photos or unique decor objects that infuse your personality and add character to the arrangement.

From the straightforward idea of coffee tables acting as mere functional pieces, their role and designs have changed drastically over the years. They are now sculptural and artistic statement pieces that tie the room together. Lately, we have been spotting more and more architectural style sculptural wooden coffee tables, rustic woven coffee tables in wicker or rattan, sleek metal nesting tables and monoblocks coffee tables in concrete or marble. Coffee tables with storage have also become increasingly popular with designs featuring practical drawers and hidden storage for you to have plenty of space to keep all your essentials within arm’s reach.