A coffee table is a main staple in anyone’s home. It is the center piece of the living room and usually a main focal point. A coffee table has many functions; a good place to kick your feet up (even though we know we shouldn’t do this, many of us still do), it is the home of your remote control, magazines, and drinks. What a lot of people don’t realize is that a coffee table is also a decorative piece in your home. That’s why so often people don’t explore the different types of coffee tables that are available and end up sticking to something standard and readily available. The best way to choose a coffee table is to combine style and function together. Here are some tips that are important when choosing the perfect coffee table for your space.
TAKE MEASUREMENTS
A general rule is to take some measurements before you buy a coffee table. Prevention is always better than cure. Just like you wouldn't buy a sofa without measuring what space you have to work with, you should apply the same efforts in purchasing your coffee table. Start by figuring out the correct measurements by measuring from the floor to the top of the sofa cushion. Generally, a good height for a coffee table is one that is levelled with your knees while sitting. Rule of thumb, a good size coffee table is 1/2 to 1/3 the size length of your sofa. Also, remember to measure the distance between the sofa and the space where the coffee table will be so you know that there is enough room to walk freely. The standard width is about 18" for comfortable movement.
STYLE
Now that you have your measurements out of the way, consider the type of look you are going for. There are many options available now-a-days in many different styles and shapes. No longer are you limited to a square or rectangular wooden or glass top standard coffee table. You can choose something that shows your personality and is modern and fun. Or you can go with something that is more laid back and simple. As long as you have an idea of what it is you’re looking for before you go out, it is completely up to you. I made this mistake when I moved into my apartment. I had no vision of what I wanted in a living room, I thought ‘hey, a coffee table is a coffee table’ I ended up buying a modern coffee table, but it didn’t fit the functions that I needed it too and the legs ended up weakening quicker than I had expected them too.
SIZE
Consider your size before you buy a coffee table. You just spotted a beautiful coffee table; on impulse you buy it only to discover when you get home that A. it doesn’t look as good as it did in a big showroom, or B. You have no space between your sofa and your coffee table for easy walking. Not only will this make your already small space look more cluttered, the frustration it will cause to be stuck with the coffee table will be much more worse. If you are short on space try pairing two smaller side tables together. It is a great option and still looks modern and fresh and offers variety.
FUNCTION
This leads me to function. What is your coffee table going to be used for ? Are you the type of person who likes to sit on the ground and read a book, write, or eat on your coffee table? Choose a sturdier model in this case, one without separate legs so that you won’t have to worry about them wearing down over time, or becoming loose. Do you have children or pets that will be knocking into the coffee table? Are you a clumsy person? I’d suggest rounded edges so that no one is harmed during an accident. Do you need a coffee table that can double as storage, or place decorative pieces on? Or do you just want it to sit there and look pretty in the middle of your living room. If that’s the case, you’re lucky! You have millions of styles and options available to you and don't have to worry about how it will work in your space.
DON'T FORGET
subscribe to our newsletter by clicking herewhere we will be showcasing our new coffee tables line up. We have some really modern and fun options. So stay tuned! You will also be entered into our monthly draw. Winners are announced EVERY month.
COMMENTS + THOUGHTS WELCOMED!
