Cocktail, or coffee, tables are a classic staple of any living room layout. Practically centered near seating, these pieces of home furniture offer a convenient spot to place decor, enjoy drinks, entertain guests, and play board games. At the same time, this surface can play a vital role in interior design by either influencing or complementing other pieces of living room furniture. If you’re in need of a new cocktail table, here are a few tips that can help you choose a piece that balances both function and form.

5 Tips for Choosing a Cocktail Table

1. Balance the Height  

Ideally, the top of your table should be about even with the top cushions of the seating surrounding it. A few inches lower can also be appropriate. However, if the surface is too low or too high, it will disrupt the flow of the living room and make the seating experience awkward—both visually and when placing something on the table.

2. Choose a Shape That Provides Enough Space

A square, rectangle, or hexagonal piece tends to fill L-shaped couch configurations the best. Circle and oval tables, however, may be preferable for smaller seating areas, and their lack of corners adds safety for those with young kids.

Whatever shape you choose, it should be placed about 1 foot in front of the sofa while offering at least 2 feet of clearance on all other sides so that people can comfortably walk around it. 

3. Stay Shorter Than the Sofa

If a cocktail table is longer than the sofa, your living room may look crowded and inconsistent. To strike the right proportions, find a piece that’s no longer than two-thirds of the couch’s length.

4. Consider Storage Needs

When you only plan on using your cocktail table for a few magazines, remotes, or coffee cups, you might not need one that offers a lot of storage, such as those that stand on skinny legs. However, if you need an extra place to keep belongings, it’s best to choose a table that offers built-in storage. Many models feature unobtrusive drawers or lower tiers for baskets.

5. Match the Material to the Room Style

Whatever material you choose, make sure it fits with the look of your other living room furniture. For example, distressed hardwood pieces work well in homes with coastal or rustic interiors. Metal, on the other hand, is great for industrial or minimalist spaces. If you have a modern style, consider a stone or glass tabletop.

When you want to narrow your selection of cocktail tables, Taylor’s Furniture & Bedding will introduce you to a wide range of stylish, durable, and reasonably priced products. The knowledgeable associates at this Brunswick, OH, furniture store will take time to learn about your preferences, interior, and lifestyle to help you find the perfect piece for your home. To view their current selection of living room furniture or learn more about financing opportunities, visit this retailer online. For questions about availability, call (330) 273-7283.