It’s hard to imagine a coffee table ever really being out of fashion. The perfect example of form and function, they allow us to flex our interior style while providing a space to rest a hot drink, or display a book or vase.
Or perhaps they help clear away kids clutter to provide a moment of mental and visual respite from the inevitable ephemera left in their wake.
And yet, with the rise of minimalism and the recent favour for chic, quiet luxury, ‘clean-slate’ style, coffee tables haven’t had the attention they used to get. Textural overstuffed sofa and couches in neutral hues, stylish lamps and angular armchairs have perhaps been hogging all the attention. Or perhaps it’s that the coffee tables are still there, but not overflowing with styling elements like oversized tomes, candles and decorative art pieces we used to love.
With this in mind, we thought it was time to remember the beauty of a coffee table that not only works well, but often provides the last piece for an interior design puzzle.
Timelessness is a key feature, as these pieces will like be able to fit in your homes for years to come, but also provide enough personality that you’ll say “I love that!” when you walk into the room.
What to consider
Most coffee tables are purchased on appearance alone, but it’s worth considering these elements:
Size: Measure the area where the coffee table will be placed. Most experts recommend it should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa and should have enough clearance space between the table and the seating to move freely around it.
Height: It should sit level with, or slightly lower than the height of your couch cushions. For higher couches, a taller table may be more appropriate.
Shape: Does the space suit a round, square or rectangular table? Does it need to nest beside an armchair or will it provide a centerpiece for the room?
Use: Do you need the ability to use the coffee table as storage? Will it be in an area that children can access and there for need to be safe and durable?
Finish: Wood is a timeless option, while glass and metal give a nod to certain eras but remain a popular choice. Marble, or marble look is luxurious but can be visually dominant.
Our picks: Coffee tables to shop now
Karimoku Case N-CT01 Coffee Table from Good Form.
