What Is The Right Height For A Coffee Table?

Anyone furnishing a home has a moment where they realize how many pieces they need to buy. There may also be a moment when they question how necessary every piece of furniture is. Coffee tables may often fall under this kind of scrutiny. Being discerning about the coffee table you choose ensures that you'll have a coffee table that fits perfectly in your space.

This is often less about style and more about function. For those that have a small space, it may seem like a coffee table will only make the space more cramped, says Crafts on Fire. While this is a common concern, it doesn't mean you should forgo having a coffee table. Instead, focus on the measurements to ensure you're buying the right one for your space. Regardless of the size of your living room, if you use these coffee table proportion tips, it will look more pleasing and won't take up too much space.

Because a coffee table is placed around other furniture, the height of the coffee table matters. Standard coffee tables stand between 16 inches and 18 inches tall, according to Wayfair. However, that doesn't mean that any of the standard ones are the best options. When choosing your coffee table, you will also want to keep in mind the height of your sofa cushions.

It's recommended to choose a table that either matches the seat cushions or is shorter by one or two inches. Matching these two will allow you to grab anything you place on the table while relaxing on the sofa. This rule creates a more appealing visual as it maintains continuity in the room. In general, because a coffee table is seen as an accessory, it would be best to choose your sofa first and match your coffee table to the sofa measurements. Plus, using this rule will help ensure your coffee table is proportional to the room and other furniture.

However, like most design rules, the coffee table height guidelines can be broken in some cases. While it's a good rule for the majority of homes, there may be times when a coffee table that's taller than your sofa cushions is the better option. You'll want to proceed with caution because a coffee table that's too tall will look awkward in a living room, according to Home Decor Bliss, and can resemble a dining room rather than a living room.

A coffee table that is one to two inches taller than the seat cushions of a sofa will still look natural. Choosing a taller coffee table is a great option if you have low profile sofa. If the sofa already sits low, then an even shorter coffee table will be visually off. Those who find themselves hosting may find that a higher coffee table works well because it's easier for guests to reach. In general, if your coffee table height falls between two inches shorter or two inches taller than your sofa, then you've found the perfect addition.