You have just moved into your new apartment, and you finally have a living room that requires decoration. Your coffee table is the living room’s centerpiece, so choosing the right one is crucial. It’s not just about finding a surface to place your remote controls and coasters; it also helps establish the tone for the entire space. You have several options: rustic, natural, sleek, modern, or boho chic. Before heading to the furniture store, consider the vibe you want to create. If you have a small space, a round coffee table can make it feel more open, while a rectangular one is ideal for larger living rooms.
Also, don’t forget hidden storage or a lift-top table if you’re short on space. The most important thing is to pick a coffee table that you love, and that suits your lifestyle. In this article, DeCasa Collections is here to assist with that, as with the right coffee table, you’ll have a stylish space to unwind and the perfect spot to rest your feet at the end of the day.
Choosing the Right Size Coffee Table for Your Living Room
The right size coffee table can make or break your living room layout. Too big and it overwhelms the space, too small and it looks out of place. As a rule of thumb, choose a coffee table roughly two-thirds the length of your sofa. So if you have a 6-foot couch, go for a 4-foot table.
- Measure the length and width of your sofa to determine your space’s ideal coffee table proportions. Also, consider the walking paths in your living room and leave enough room for people to easily navigate around the table.
- Think about how you use your living room. If you frequently entertain guests or have family movie nights, a larger coffee table is useful for holding snacks, drinks, books, and other items. A small coffee table may suit your needs for a more minimal living room.
- Consider the style of your decor. A rustic, hardwood coffee table pairs well with a cozy, traditional space, while a sleek glass top fits better in a modern living room. Choose a table that complements your existing furnishings.
- Feel free to go bold. An oversized square, round, or oval coffee table creates a dramatic focal point in your living room. Just make sure to leave extra space around the edges and keep the walkways clear.
- Nest multiple tables together. If you want maximum surface space, nest a large coffee table with one or two smaller side tables. But only do this if you have a spacious living room – you don’t want the area to feel cluttered or cramped.
With some measuring and consideration of how you use your living room, you’ll find a coffee table size and style that is a perfect fit. Your living room will thank you!
Coffee Table Materials: Wood, Glass, Metal or Stone
When it comes to coffee table materials, you’ve got options. The material you choose determines your centerpiece’s look, feel, and functionality. Consider your living room style and needs to pick what’s right for you.
Wood
Wood is a popular, classic choice. It’s warm and natural, complementing many decor styles. opts for a rustic, unfinished wood or a smooth, lacquered finish. Wood pairs well with decor of similar tone and texture but can also create an interesting contrast in a sleek, modern space. Wood surfaces need coasters for drinks to prevent water damage.
Glass
Glass coffee tables are stylish and help open up a space, giving the illusion of more room. They work in transitional and contemporary rooms. Glass shows off decorative accents underneath and is easy to clean, but fingerprints and smudges show. For safety, choose tempered Glass.
Metal
The metal creates an eye-catching focal point like brass, gold, or silver. Metal mesh, gridded, or geometric designs are on-trend. Metal suits glamorous, industrial, and minimalist styles. Softer metals like brass warm up a space, while steel has a modern edge. Protect metal finishes from scratches with felt pads under decor.
Stone
Natural stone, like marble or granite, makes a dramatic statement. Each stone piece has unique color variations and patterns. Stone is ideal for rustic, Tuscan, or Southwestern styles. The stone lasts forever but requires coasters, as moisture can stain or damage the surface. stone also tends to be on the pricey side.
Ultimately, choose a material that fits your decorating style, daily needs, and budget. The options are many, so you’re sure to find a coffee table you love!
Coffee Table Styles: Modern, Rustic, Industrial or Traditional
When choosing a coffee table for your living room, consider the general style you want to achieve. The coffee table is a focal point of the space, so its style should complement your décor.
Modern
A modern coffee table has clean lines, a simple rectangular shape, and a glass or wood top. It provides an airy, uncluttered feel that works well with contemporary furnishings.
Popular modern styles are:
- Rectangular glass-top coffee table: A transparent glass top gives the illusion of more space and works with most decorating schemes.
- Wooden slab table: A thick, solid, rectangular piece of wood, often with metal legs. It has an organic yet minimalist look.
- Nesting tables: A set of three small tables of graduated sizes that can be tucked under each other or pulled apart and used separately. They provide flexibility and a modular feel.
Choose a coffee table with a simple form and natural, muted materials for a modern space. The table should have room underneath and on top to avoid appearing cluttered. A few decorative items like books, sculptures, or a plant help complete the look.
Rustic
Bring nature indoors with a rustic coffee table. Made of natural, distressed wood, it has an imperfect, handcrafted feel. A rustic table works well for casual, cozy spaces and pairs nicely with leather furnishings.
Popular rustic styles are:
- Distressed wood table: Wood planks or slabs with visible knots, cracks, and imperfections. Often on metal or wood legs.
- Storage trunk: An antique-looking wooden trunk or chest with metal accents. The storage space inside adds function.
- Tree trunk slice: A cross-section of a tree trunk, with the rings of the wood prominently displayed. Each table has a unique pattern.
For a rustic coffee table, choose a style made of reclaimed or distressed wood, preferably with imperfections that give it character. Add accessories that complement the natural look, like woven baskets, candles in glass jars, stone coasters, or greenery. Keep the space uncluttered for the most cohesive design.
Final Thoughts
So now you’ve got some inspiration and ideas for stylish coffee table centerpieces that will make a statement in your living room. Whether you want to keep things simple with a tray and a few decorative accents, create a natural focal point with plants and greenery, or curate an eye-catching collection of your favorite books, photos, or objects d’art, you have plenty of options to choose from. The most important thing is to choose pieces that reflect your personal style and the overall decor of your space. Your coffee table centerpiece is a chance to show off what you’re passionate about and give guests a glimpse into what makes your home uniquely you. So get creative, have fun with it, and make a centerpiece you love coming home to every day!
