A coffee table that's the right size makes a living room easier to use: drinks within reach, space to walk past and a layout that looks balanced. Here's how to choose the size, height and shape that suit your room.
How long should a coffee table be?
A good rule of thumb is a coffee table about two-thirds the length of your sofa. For a typical three-seater sofa of around 200 cm, that means a coffee table of roughly 110–135 cm long. For a two-seater of around 160 cm, look at 90–110 cm. With a corner sofa, measure the longer side and centre the table in front of the main seating area.
How high should a coffee table be?
Choose a coffee table about the same height as your sofa seat, or a few centimetres lower. Most sofa seats sit at 40–45 cm, so a coffee table of 35–45 cm high works in most living rooms. Lower tables feel more relaxed and modern; a table at seat height is easier for setting down cups and plates.
How much space to leave around it
- Between the sofa and the coffee table: 40–50 cm. That's close enough to reach a cup and far enough to stretch your legs.
- Walkways around the table: at least 60–75 cm, so people can move through the room comfortably.
- To the TV unit: leave enough space to walk between the coffee table and the media unit without turning sideways.
Round, oval or rectangular?
Rectangular tables suit long sofas and give the most surface area. Round tables are easier to walk around, have no sharp corners for children to bump into, and soften a room full of straight lines. Oval tables sit in between: the length of a rectangle with the easy flow of a round table. In a small living room or an apartment, a round or oval table usually makes the space feel larger.
Storage or open?
A coffee table with drawers or a lower shelf keeps remotes, magazines and coasters out of sight. An open design with slim legs looks lighter and lets more floor show, which helps a small room. If you need more surface space without a bigger table, add a side table at the end of the sofa.
Quick checklist before you buy
- Measure your sofa and aim for a table about two-thirds of its length.
- Check your sofa seat height and choose a table the same height or slightly lower.
- Leave 40–50 cm between sofa and table, and 60–75 cm for walkways.
- Pick a shape that suits your room and how you use it.
- Check whether the table is in stock or made to order.
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