Designer coffee tables: choosing the right one
At the heart of the living room, the coffee table sets the tone for the whole space. It needs to work hard day to day while sitting comfortably with the sofa, the rug and the materials around it.
Size and height
Aim for a length of about two thirds of the sofa and a height equal to or slightly below its seat, i.e. 35 to 45 cm. Leave 40 to 45 cm between the table and the sofa. In a small room, a round table eases movement; a pair of nesting tables gives you a flexible surface.
Which material?
Solid wood, as crafted by Raw Materials and House Doctor, ages gracefully. Travertine and stone bring a much sought-after mineral presence. LIND DNA and Urban Nature Culture offer more sculptural forms that turn the coffee table into a decorative piece in its own right.
Care
For oiled wood, use a slightly damp cloth and apply a maintenance oil once or twice a year; for stone, use coasters and wipe up spills promptly.
Your questions
Round or rectangular coffee table?
A rectangular table follows the lines of a large sofa; a round one softens a compact living room and works well with corner sofas.
How far should a coffee table be from the sofa?
Between 40 and 45 cm: close enough to put a glass down, far enough to walk past.
Pair with our side tables and rugs.
