Coffee Tables: How to choose the best coffee table or cocktail table

Often overshadowed by couches, chairs, and entertainment centers, the coffee table is one of those lesser-noticed but always essential pieces. When you choose one that complements your home decor style, it can serve as an effective grounding element for the room. When shopping for a coffee table as a finishing touch for your space, keep the following considerations in mind:

• Get the height right. A standard coffee table is between 16”-18”, but you may opt for a slightly higher one if you plan to use it for entertaining, making it easier for guests to set down their drinks.
• Shape is also important. Let the setup of your other furnishings and the dimensions of the room be your guide. For long, narrow rooms, a traditional rectangular coffee table works best. For a larger space, a square coffee table adds a dramatic touch. When furnishing a compact area, a round or oval coffee table can be a great space-saver.
• Choose a material that complements your style. If the rest of your furniture is traditional, a simple oak wood coffee table may fit the bill. For more modern spaces, you might opt for a contemporary coffee table made of metal or chrome. Also consider the amount of traffic and activity that will surround the table. In a house with small children, for example, wood is probably a wiser choice than a glass table.
• If you like unique coffee tables, consider a clear acrylic table that shows off our area rug or art books. A pure white coffee table makes a dramatic statement, as does a display table that shows off your collections.

Finally, storage coffee tables and trunk tables are a practical solution for clutter control, particularly a lift top coffee table.