The coffee table is often the centerpiece of a living room. It’s where conversations begin, books are stacked, and drinks are shared. But with endless styles and sizes to choose from, picking the right coffee table can feel overwhelming. The good news? A few simple guidelines can help you select a piece that fits your space, lifestyle, and design preferences.
Start with Proportion
The first step is to measure your space. A coffee table should be roughly two-thirds the length of your sofa and sit at a similar height to your seat cushions. Most living rooms work best with at least 16–18 inches between the table and the surrounding seating—close enough to reach, but not too tight for legroom.
Oversized rooms can handle broader or longer tables, while smaller spaces benefit from more compact or lightweight designs. If your living room is narrow, consider a table with an open frame or a glass top to create a more airy feel.
Choose the Right Shape
The shape of your coffee table should support both your room layout and traffic flow. Rectangular and oval tables work well with standard sofas, while round or square tables are ideal for sectionals or smaller, intimate seating arrangements. Round tables also soften sharp corners in rooms filled with straight lines, adding balance to your design. If you have children or pets, curved edges can reduce the risk of bumps and bruises.
Think About Function
Are you looking for extra storage? A spot to prop up your feet? Or maybe a table that can double as a workspace or dining surface? Your daily routine should guide your choice.
Tables with shelves or drawers are great for stashing away magazines and remote controls. Lift-top tables offer added convenience for multitaskers, while nesting tables give you flexible surface space when entertaining. For minimal needs, a simple, clean design may be all you need.
Consider Materials Carefully
Material choice plays a huge role in durability, maintenance, and overall look. Wooden coffee tables bring warmth and timeless appeal to almost any room, with oak, walnut, and ash being popular choices. Glass tables can make a small room feel larger and allow surrounding furniture to stand out, but they do require more frequent cleaning. Metal bases offer a modern, industrial edge, while stone or marble tops add luxury and elegance—though they can be heavy and more fragile. Upholstered ottoman-style tables are cozy and soft, and double as extra seating when needed.
Match Your Style
Your coffee table should reflect your overall design style. For modern interiors, opt for clean lines, sleek surfaces, and simple colors. Traditional spaces benefit from classic shapes and rich wood finishes. If your style leans eclectic, consider mixing materials—wood with metal, or glass with fabric—for a unique look.
Neutral tables blend well into any setting, while bold designs with sculptural details or vibrant colors can become a conversation piece.
Be Practical and Intentional
Ultimately, your coffee table should support your lifestyle. Whether you’re sipping coffee alone, hosting guests, or living with kids and pets, the table you choose should meet both your practical needs and aesthetic goals. As you shop, you’ll find plenty of stylish options from brands like HMR, Bellini, Maxima, Crenus, and Moe’s. Use these tips as a foundation to explore the right mix of function and beauty—so your table isn’t just another surface, but a true centerpiece in your living space. View some examples below from top-rated manufacturers to get fresh ideas.
Penny Contemporary Large Coffee Table by Moe‘s
The Moe’s Penny Contemporary Large Coffee Table is a sophisticated centerpiece that seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern design. Crafted from a solid oak tabletop and supported by an oak veneer over a plywood base, this table showcases a circular surface with a refined bullnose edge. Its distinctive curved bases feature playful, fluted detailing, adding dynamic visual interest to any living space. Measuring 39 inches in diameter and standing 15.75 inches tall, the Penny table offers ample surface area while maintaining a sleek profile. Its nesting design allows for pairing with a smaller counterpart, creating a harmonious set that enhances both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Each piece is unique, exhibiting natural variations in wood grain and knots, which contribute to its authentic character. Available in a dark brown or natural finish, the Penny coffee table complements a variety of interior styles, from contemporary to rustic. Its versatile color palette and elegant design make it a timeless addition to any home, offering both style and practicality.
Round Sintered Stone Leather Drum Coffee Table by HMR
The HMR Round Sintered Stone Leather Drum Coffee Table is a modern centerpiece that combines elegance with functionality. Featuring a drum-shaped design, it offers a smooth, wide top ideal for serving and displaying decorative items. The table is constructed with a durable metal frame, stainless steel base, sintered stone top, and PU leather upholstery, ensuring both stability and a sleek appearance. Available in a sophisticated beige of gray finish, this coffee table complements various interior styles. Its dimensions are 27.6 inches in diameter and 14.2 inches in height, providing ample surface area while maintaining a compact footprint. The table arrives fully assembled, allowing for immediate use upon delivery. Its versatile design makes it suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, offices, or lounge areas, serving as a coffee table, end table, or decorative accent. With its combination of premium materials and contemporary design, this table adds a touch of luxury to any space.
Style Umi Coffee Table by Maxima
The Maxima Style Umi Coffee Table in Oak Array is a beautifully crafted piece that brings warmth and natural elegance to any living space. Designed with a minimalist aesthetic, it features clean lines and a sturdy construction that highlights the rich grain of oak wood. The table’s surface offers ample space for decorative items, books, or beverages, making it both functional and stylish. Constructed from high-quality materials, the Umi Coffee Table ensures durability and longevity. Its oak finish complements a variety of interior styles, from contemporary to traditional, adding a touch of sophistication to your home.The table’s design emphasizes simplicity and functionality, aligning with modern design principles. Whether placed in a living room, lounge, or office, this coffee table serves as a versatile centerpiece.Its timeless design and quality craftsmanship make it a valuable addition to any furniture collection.
Delizia Lift-Top Marble Coffee Table by Crenus
The Crenus Delizia 35.43″-27.56″ Lift-Top Marble Coffee Table seamlessly combines luxury and practicality, making it a standout piece in any living space. Its sleek marble top offers a refined aesthetic, while the sturdy wood and metal base provides a modern contrast. The round design creates a soft, welcoming look that pairs beautifully with various interior styles, from contemporary to classic. Crafted from high-quality materials, this table ensures lasting durability and strength. The marble surface is not only elegant but also resistant to wear, while the wood and metal base adds stability and a contemporary touch. This combination of premium craftsmanship and functional design makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a coffee table that enhances both style and practicality in their home. Designed with both style and functionality in mind, this coffee table features built-in drawers that provide discreet storage for everyday essentials. Whether storing magazines, remotes, or small accessories, the drawers keep everything organized and within reach. The nesting design adds another layer of convenience, allowing you to optimize space while maintaining a clean, sophisticated appearance. With its combination of premium materials and contemporary design, this table adds a touch of luxury to any space.
Abby Coffee Table by Bellini
The Bellini Abby Coffee Table is a stylish and sophisticated centerpiece that adds warmth and modern elegance to any living room. Its round Canaletto walnut veneer top showcases the rich natural wood grain, creating a warm and inviting surface that’s ideal for daily use or entertaining. The table rests on a sleek black iron base that offers both stability and visual contrast, giving it a contemporary edge. With its clean lines and minimalist silhouette, the Abby Coffee Table blends seamlessly into a variety of interior styles, from modern and industrial to transitional and classic. Measuring 39 inches in diameter and standing 15 inches tall, the table is perfectly sized to anchor a seating area without overwhelming the space. The smooth, polished finish adds to its refined appeal, while the sturdy craftsmanship ensures long-lasting durability. Whether you’re displaying decorative items or simply enjoying coffee with guests, this coffee table brings functional beauty to your home.
Choosing the right coffee table is about more than filling space—it’s about enhancing the way you live and interact in your home. From size and shape to material and function, every detail plays a role in how the table fits into your daily routine. Whether you prefer something sleek and modern or cozy and classic, the best choice balances style with practicality. Take time to consider your room layout, personal needs, and aesthetic preferences. With thoughtful planning, your coffee table can become a natural extension of your living space—beautiful, useful, and perfectly suited to your lifestyle.
