There’s a lot going on with a coffee table.
It needs to hold your cup of coffee (preferably in style), along with books, cords, and a lamp. It needs to stack magazines and endear itself to your guests. And sometimes it even needs to moonlight as a dining table, especially during the mad dash of the workweek.
It stands to reason, then, that a coffee table isn’t just a piece of furniture. The right one can help define your room, providing all the elements of function and beauty your space might demand. Our collection of coffee tables does just that. Designed with everyday needs in mind, they’re never “too precious” or overly artistic for the living room. Here are a few things to keep in mind: after that, it’s all style.
Choosing Coffee Table Shape and Size
With so many coffee table shapes and sizes to choose from, how do you know where to start? First, take into consideration your room setting: A rectangular table can help reinforce a classic sofa-plus-armchairs layout, while a round shape gives boxy rooms a softer flavor and lets you get around more easily. And when it comes to height, take a clue from your sofa. Ideally, your coffee table should be the same height or a little bit lower than your seat cushions, so you can put your stuff down with ease.
Selecting Coffee Table Materials
Tell us: what are your coffee table must-have materials? Solid wood promises long-lasting warmth; glass and metal feel light and modern; and a washable surface can be key if you have small kids or pets. Our coffee tables are made to last, with materials that can straddle that fine line between special enough for occasions and practical enough for every day.
What to Look for in a Coffee Table, Function-Wise
The beauty of a coffee table is that it can offer so many functions. Don’t have room for a second nightstand? Toss your overnight essentials on your coffee table instead. Turning your living room into an office for the day? Let’s raise that top. When it comes to storage, consider these tips: you can sacrifice a bit of a tabletop for drawers and shelves, but if you want the extra thickness, sometimes the base can give you what you’re looking for.
Coffee Table Style + Room Coordination
This part is fun. Once you’ve figured out what size and materials are right for your space (hint: we can help you in this department), now it’s time to get choosy with your style. Ask yourself: Are there elements in your room that you want to reflect in your coffee table? Are there colors, textures, or patterns that you might want to tie into or make a statement with? Basically, whether you want your coffee table to blend in or stand out matters, because we think a coffee table comes second only to the rug for pulling a room together.
Taking Care of Your Coffee Table
The perfect coffee table is one that looks great and doesn’t require too much upkeep. Smooth finishes, easy-to-clean surfaces, and durable construction will help you keep your piece in good condition. Entertaining guests in your home can look many different ways, and you may want a living room that’s also a well-organized play area for the kids. In those cases, it’s especially important to choose a coffee table that is simple to maintain, so it can continue to bring your room together. With Serena & Lily, you never have to sacrifice style for functionality, with tables that can stand up to your daily life without losing their sophisticated style.
Designing an Ideal Living Space
Ultimately, your coffee table will set the tone for the entire living space, so be sure to complement it with your sofa and rugs to get a beautifully put-together look. Use books, trays, or a small plant to add some of your own personality to the room, without making the space look messy. The perfect table will make your living space both beautifully styled and incredibly functional.
Conclusion
A coffee table might be a small choice, but the right one will make a big difference in your living room. By considering size, material, and style, you should be able to find a table that looks great in your space and will also easily fit into your everyday routine. With Serena & Lily, you can trust that every coffee table you select will be both beautiful and functional, making it the perfect addition to your home.