Hey, listen up! You need a coffee table in your life. Why, you ask? Well, coffee tables aren’t just a cool piece of furniture, they’re actually super practical too. Think about it, where else are you gonna put your drinks, snacks and TV remote when you’re chillin’ on the couch? They are also a classy addition to your living room in terms of interior design. So, trust us, you won’t regret investing in a coffee table after reading this informative buyer’s guide.
Why Should I Buy A Coffee Table?
First things first, there are several compelling reasons to buy a coffee table. As we’ve just mentioned in the intro, they’re perfect for when you want to chill out in your living room, keeping your essential items all within arm’s reach. And let’s be real, who doesn’t love that?
You can also use a coffee table to display decorative items, books and magazines. Not to mention, they’re a great addition to your home’s decor and can really tie a room together. Plus, with so many different styles, materials and designs available, you’re sure to find one that suits your taste and needs. So, do yourself a favour and invest in a dope coffee table.
Round Coffee Table
A Brief History Of The Coffee Table
Did you know that coffee tables weren’t always so low and funky, like we all know and love them today? Back in the day, during the late Victorian era in Britain to be precise, coffee tables used to be about 27 inches (68.5 cm) tall – that’s almost the height of a dinner table. Not exactly the height you’d want for a coffee table now, right?
Nobody knows for sure, but the idea for today’s lower coffee tables probably originated from Japan or the Ottoman Empire. Picture the scene. One day, a coffee aficionado was visiting a Japanese tea room, when they suddenly had a lightbulb moment. “Hey, why don’t we make a shorter table for our coffee too?” And just like that, the modern coffee table was born.
Coffee tables became a big deal in our homes from the mid-20th century onwards, especially after TVs started to gain popularity in the 1950s. A low coffee table was perfect for putting in front of a couch or chair, so you could enjoy the telly without any interruptions. Nowadays, coffee tables are still a big part of our living rooms and other hangout spots.
Coffee Tables: What’s Your Flavour?
Let’s talk about the different types of coffee table available in furniture shops today. You’ve got the classics, the moderns and everything in between. Here are a few of the most popular types to choose from:
Wood Coffee Tables
If you’re all about that warm and cosy vibe, a wooden coffee table is the one for you. They come in a range of finishes, from natural wood to painted or stained wood, and can fit in with almost any decor style. They’re also pretty durable, so you don’t need to worry about them falling apart after a few parties. Plus, there’s so many different kinds of wood out there, so you can easily choose one that exactly matches your style and budget. And let’s not forget about the natural beauty of those lush wood grain patterns, they will add some serious character to your living space.
Glass Coffee Tables
Looking for something more sleek and modern? A glass coffee table might be the perfect fit. It can make a smaller living room feel more spacious, and these minimalist tables are available in various shapes, including round, oval and rectangular. Glass coffee tables can make any room look lit. Plus, they’re easy to clean and you don’t have to worry about any spills staining your table. And if you’re into Feng Shui or want to create the illusion of more space, a glass coffee table can do the trick by reflecting light and making your space feel bigger. Just be careful not to sit on it or it could shatter like your ex’s heart.
Metal Coffee Tables
If you want something durable and stylish, a metal coffee table is the way to go. They’re like the superheroes of the furniture world – super tough and super cool looking. Metal coffee tables are a great choice for those looking for an industrial or modern look, and come in brushed, polished or painted finishes. Plus, you can find them in all sorts of dope shapes and styles, from industrial to glam. And let’s not forget about the easy maintenance – just wipe it down and you’re good to go. So if you’re looking for a coffee table that’s both practical and stylish, go for a metal one.
Upholstered Coffee Tables
Super comfy, an upholstered coffee table adds a cosy vibe to your living room. So, if you need a coffee table that also doubles as extra seating for when you’ve got company over, they’re a fab choice. They come in a variety of fabrics, from leather to velvet, and are perfect for snuggling up with a good book or some Netflix. And let’s not forget how they add a softness to any room, balancing out harder materials – like any of the metal or glass featured in your other furnishings and decor.
Colter Metal Coffee Table
Now that you know the different types of coffee tables available, let’s dive a little deeper into what to consider when selecting one. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Size
You don’t want a coffee table that’s too small or too big for your space. Consider the size of your living room and the other furniture pieces in the room when selecting a coffee table. A good rule of thumb is to choose a coffee table that’s about two-thirds the size of your sofa.
Shape
The shape of your coffee table can also affect the overall look and feel of your living room. Rectangular coffee tables work well with traditional furniture pieces, while round coffee tables can add a playful touch to a modern space.
Style
Your coffee table should complement the style of your living room. If you have a rustic living room, a wood coffee table may be the best choice. On the other hand, if you have a modern living room, a glass or metal coffee table may be a better fit.
Are There Any Alternatives To Buying A Coffee Table?
Despite our obvious crush on coffee tables, you don’t necessarily need to buy a coffee table if you don’t want to. There are tons of other options out there. For example, you could go for a storage ottoman or a trunk – they’re both good for storage and putting your drinks on. The sky’s the limit, so don’t be afraid to get creative.
Another choice is to use a few smaller side tables that you can move around and switch up. Or, if you’re feeling funky, try using a sweet-looking chest or vintage suitcase as your coffee table. And if you’re really strapped for cash, you can always try making your own coffee table using stuff like wooden crates or stacked books. Or you can just pop into your nearest Furniture Outlet for a real bargain!
Wooden Coffee Table With Lower Storage Shelf
How To Style Your Coffee Table: Tips & Tricks
Once you’ve chosen the perfect coffee table for your space, it’s time to style it. Here are some tips to make it a focal point in your living room:
- First off, don’t be afraid to add some pops of colour to your coffee table. A bright-coloured vase or a funky decorative object can really make your table stand out. If you’re not sure where to start, consider incorporating colours that are already present in your room’s decor. For example, if your living room has blue accents, consider adding a blue vase or some blue coasters to your coffee table. You can also choose colours that complement each other, like pairing a bright pink vase with a green plant. Just remember to keep it balanced and not to go overboard with too many colours.
- Incorporate some personal touches that reflect your personality and interests. Consider adding a framed photo of your favourite holiday spot or a small sculpture that you picked up on a trip abroad. These little details can make your coffee table feel more unique and special to you. Just remember to keep it balanced and not too cluttered, so you have plenty of space to kick up your feet and relax.
- Throwing a tray on your coffee table is a smart move to keep small stuff together and make it look sleek. Make sure you pick a tray that matches the style and colour of your coffee table for a smooth and seamless look.
- Try layering some accessories on the table. Stack up some books, throw in a vase of flowers and toss in a decorative object or two to give it some depth and interest. It’ll be looking dope in no time.
- Take this a step further by playing around with the height of the objects on your coffee table to make it way more interesting to look at. Throw a big ol’ candle or vase on there, and then balance it out with something shorter, like a cute little plant or a fancy bowl. This will give your table more dimension and make it look less boring.
- Another cool idea is to add some natural elements, like a small plant or a piece of driftwood. Not only does it add some texture, but it also brings in some good vibes from Mother Nature.
- Incorporating different textures can add visual interest to your coffee table. Consider adding a textured runner or placemat underneath your tray or layering different textures with accessories like woven baskets or ceramic objects.
- Keep things fresh, don’t forget to switch up your coffee table accessories with the changing seasons. Swap out your flowers for seasonal decor or add some cosy blankets in the winter.
- If you’re into candles, try adding some scented ones to your coffee table. It not only makes your living room smell amazing but also adds a cosy vibe to the space.
- One more thing. When styling your coffee table, it’s important to keep it balanced. Don’t overload one side with accessories while leaving the other side empty. Instead, try to evenly distribute your accessories and create a cohesive look.
Shop Your Perfect Coffee Table Today
And there you have it, that’s our Coffee Table Buyer’s Guide for all you interior design-savvy lovelies out there. Whether you’re looking for a wood, glass, metal or upholstered coffee table, we’ve given you the skinny (minus the latte) on everything you need to know. And with our tips and tricks on how to style your coffee table, you’ll have a perfectly balanced and styled living room in no time.
So what are you waiting for? Find your perfect coffee table today and make your living room the envy of all your friends. Here’s to your first cup of coffee on your new, great-looking coffee table!
Industrial Style Wooden Coffee Table with Olivia Sofas at Furniture Outlet Stores
KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT BUYING A COFFEE TABLE
The Dos Of Buying Coffee Tables
- DO measure your space before buying a coffee table to ensure it fits properly. Measure the length and width of the space where you plan to place the coffee table, as well as the height of your seating. Consider the ideal distance between the coffee table and the seating and make sure the table you choose fits these measurements.
- DO choose a coffee table that complements your existing decor and style. Consider the colours, patterns and textures of your existing furniture and decor, and choose a coffee table that will complement them. You may also want to consider the overall style of your home, such as modern, bohemian or traditional.
- DO consider the functionality of the coffee table, such as storage options or a lift-top feature. Think about how you plan to use the coffee table. If you like to have a lot of items on display, consider a table with open shelves or drawers. If you often eat or work at your coffee table, a lift-top coffee table may be a great option.
- DO think about the shape of the coffee table, and choose one that suits your space and seating arrangement. Rectangular coffee tables are the most popular, but if you have a smaller space, a round or oval coffee table may work better. If you have a sectional sofa, a square or round coffee table may complement it well.
- DO get creative with the styling of your coffee table, using books, trays and decorative objects to enhance its appearance. A coffee table is a great place to showcase your personal style and add visual interest to your living room. Use books, decorative objects and trays to add texture, colour and dimension.
The Don’ts of Buying Coffee Tables
- DON’T buy a coffee table that overpowers the room or clashes with other furniture. Your coffee table should be a complementary piece of furniture that doesn’t dominate the room or clash with other pieces. Consider the scale and proportion of the coffee table in relation to your other furniture.
- DON’T ignore the height of the coffee table in relation to your seating. A coffee table that is too high or too low can be uncomfortable to use. Generally, a coffee table should be about the same height as the seat of your sofa or chairs.
- DON’T fail to account for the traffic flow around the coffee table. A coffee table that is too large or placed in the wrong spot can make it difficult to move around the room. Consider the layout of your room and choose a coffee table that allows for easy traffic flow.
- DON’T forget that there are alternatives to buying a traditional coffee table. You can get creative with a storage ottoman, a trunk, a set of smaller side tables, a decorative chest or a vintage suitcase. Or you can even make your own coffee table using materials like wooden crates, pallets or stacked books. Don’t limit yourself to just one option – explore and find what works best for your space and style.
- DON’T skimp on the budget for a coffee table, as it’s a key piece of furniture that should last for years to come. While it may be tempting to go for a cheaper option, investing in a quality coffee table will pay off in the long run, both in terms of durability and style.
Now go forth and find the coffee table that speaks to your soul – whether it’s rustic, modern or just plain weird – and don’t forget to tag us in your Instagram posts so we can see your fabulous styling skills.
Wood Coffee Table With Modern Design
What Other Interior Design Experts Say About Coffee Tables…
“Whether you’re looking for something stand-out and stylish or simple functionality, picking out the best small coffee table can be an especially important task for those of us with tiny living areas.”
Jamie Stemond at Expert Reviews
“As furniture design and furniture trends become more and more adventurous, colourful and bold, there are so many stand-out coffee tables to choose from, made from all manner of materials. From marble to metal, rattan to wood, you will easily be able to find a coffee table that can both complement and enhance your living room scheme.”
Zara Stacey at Homes & Gardens
“If your room is looking like it has lots of lines and right angles, think about adding some different shapes such as circles. A round coffee table, a pair of round side tables, a round rug, a round wall hanging – the options are endless.”
Olivia Heath at House Beautiful
“However small or large your living room, a coffee table adds a decorative and practical note. Glass options are a good idea because they won’t dominate a compact space. Use it to display books, candles and flowers and place it close to seating. Moving your accessories around every so often will help to switch up the look.”
Andreia Shelley at Ideal Home
“Adding a rug under a dining table or coffee table introduces a warmer, cosier feel to your room that’s practical too. Keep it plain and simple so as not to detract from your show-stopping furniture.”
Laurie Davidson at Livingetc
“Designing your living space begins with making countless decisions, like whether to choose blinds or curtains or bigger aesthetic decisions, like whether to design with colour or opt for more natural elements. Whatever your design preferences, when establishing the look and feel you want in your space, learning how to choose the right coffee table can make or break your decor.”
Kate Santos at Real Homes
“Size and placement are key. It’s important to get the right size and shape table for your room, so get out your tape measure before searching.”
Michele Lerner at The Washington Post
10 Examples Of Coffee Tables Recently Sold By Us – Stock Changes Daily!
If you’re looking for a scrumptious coffee table bargain, our Essex & East London outlets in Dagenham, Leigh-on-Sea and Wickford are where it’s at. First off, we’ve always got a varied selection of coffee tables on display in each store. Whether you’re into that rustic farmhouse vibe or you want something sleek and modern, we’ve got you covered. Plus, our prices can’t be beat. You won’t find better furniture deals anywhere else, believe us.
But wait, there’s more. Our staff are super chill and knowledgeable. They can help you find the perfect coffee table for your space and give you tips on how to style it like a pro. So, if you want to upgrade your living room game without breaking the bank, come check us out. We’ve got the coffee table of your dreams waiting for you.
Aavyan Block Coffee Table
Abigail Coffee Table
Glass & Metal Coffee Table
Wood Coffee Table
Espiye Block Coffee Table
Gabrielo Coffee Table
Industrial Style Modern Coffee Table
Round Coffee Table
Tildenville Square Coffee Table
Zaragoza Coffee Table
Coffee Tables: Inspiration By Our Customers
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Image Source: homeinhadleigh
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Image Source: lucyslifeestyle
Want to share your own interior design inspiration or styling tips for a living room featuring coffee tables you purchased from us? To be considered for inclusion in this blog post, just mention @furnitureoutletstores or #furnitureoutlet in your Instagram post and we’ll include the best photos here. We look forward to seeing all the inspirational living spaces you have lovingly created using Furniture Outlet.
Please note that the pricing/availability information displayed in this blog article, including photos, were correct at the time of sale and may be subject to change without notice.
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