Location
Living room and family room coffee tables are used differently, and family room coffee tables get more rough use. Keep that in mind, as where the coffee table is going to be located is a key part of selecting the right one.
Living room: You may want a more formal coffee table in your living room depending on how you have decorated. More fragile and delicate surfaces such as glass can be used in living rooms.
Family room: A family room needs a sturdier coffee table. You may also want to look for one that has storage options, like drawers. The surface should be able to take abuse because spilled snacks or feet on the table are more common in casual settings. Glass tops are generally not suitable for family rooms, not just because of fragility, but finger marks and scratches, too. For glass tops without frames, there is the danger of sharp corners, especially when you have small children.
Centerpiece
The coffee table is often called the centerpiece of the room. But you will notice that the same term is often used for a sofa, a rug, or any other piece of furniture. If you decide on the coffee table as a centerpiece, then style, size, material, surface finish, and color are attributes that will make it stand out.
A coffee table can be a focal point, with its uniqueness and functionality, and becomes a statement in a room. Combine two or more of the attributes if you want it to truly catch the eye when walking in the room.
Materials
When you shop for a coffee table, you'll become aware of how many choices you have when it comes to material. Take a look at your room and other furniture to determine what material would look best. Also, consider the material's durability and safety, especially when you have small children.
1. Wood is a classic option that's eco-friendly, durable, and long-lasting.
2. Glass can make a small room look more open.
3. Clear acrylic can also open a room and is more affordable than glass, though less durable.
4. Metal offers a modern twist and also expands a room.
5. Natural materials such as stone additionally offer a modern flare.
6. Darker wood, such as mahogany or walnut, or materials such as marble and metal can look good in a traditional room.
7. Leather or faux leather can work well in a variety of settings, and they are also easy to maintain.
Shape
Coffee tables are available in many different shapes. While the shape of the room can play a role in choosing a coffee table, you must pay attention to your seating configuration more than anything else.
1. A rectangular or oval coffee table works well for smaller rooms.
2. Squares or round coffee tables are good for large seating configurations, such as large sectionals or a large sofa and a love seat.
3. Round or oval tables are useful around children because of the absence of sharp corners.
4. Abstract shaped tables, which include triangular shapes, add another dimension to the look and feel of the room, and go well with regular size sofas or modular sectionals.
Size
Typically, standard coffee tables are around 17 to 19 inches tall, about 36 to 48 inches wide, and 24 inches across.
The size of your coffee table needs to fit in proportion to the other furniture in the room, especially the couch or sectional that it will reside in front of. The look and style of the table need to pair well with the style of furniture also, whether it be contemporary, modern, etc.
1. Consider scale as well as actual measurements when selecting a size. Select a coffee table that is no more than two-thirds of your sofa's total length. An important thing to remember is to leave enough space, at least a foot and a half, around the coffee table for legroom.
2. Your coffee table should be the same height as the seat of your sofa or lower. If it is lower, it should measure only one to two inches lower in height than the top of your sofa's seat cushion.
Functionality
The level of functionality your coffee table offers depends on how you want to use it. While most coffee tables have a flat surface supported on a base, there are plenty that offer additional features.
1. Look for coffee tables with additional shelves, drawers, or compartments if you need them to double up for storage.
2. Trunks and ottomans can offer lots of storage.
3. Some tables have surfaces that can be raised for working or eating.
4. Casters and wheels are useful if you need to roll away the coffee table.