Skip to main content

How to choose a coffee table for your small living room

These coffee tables ideas are perfect for small spaces

Living room sofa with green and white pillows with a wood coffee table
Carlina Teteris / Getty Images

A living room’s coffee table is an important piece. Not only does it bring the whole room together, but it’s also a functional part of a living room. Your coffee table holds beverages on family movie night, game boards and puzzles, and your laptop on work-from-home days.

When you have a small living room, you may be tempted to forgo the coffee table in favor of more floor space — but don’t. The right side table won’t make your room feel too cramped. In fact, it can actually make the room feel larger if the placement and size are right. You just need to know how to choose a coffee table that works with your small space. We’re here to show you how.

modern glass table in living room
romakoma / Shutterstock

How to choose a coffee table

While round or rectangle coffee tables are the most common, they come in a wide variety of shapes, heights, and widths, so you’re bound to find the right one for your cozy space. In smaller living rooms, coffee tables that have an oval or rectangular shape work best since the narrow width allows them to fit comfortably in a snug area. If you have children, opt for a shape that has rounded edges or none at all, since sharp corners pose a safety hazard.

Pick an appropriate size

Obviously, since your living room space is smaller, it’s best to choose a smaller coffee table as opposed to one that is large and bulky. Before purchasing anything, measure the space to ensure the height, length, and width not only fit in the space but will look visually appealing and not over or underwhelming.

Coffee table height

The height of your coffee table should be similar to the height of your sofa’s seat, give or take a few inches. Any taller and it will look awkward and overbearing in your small space. Any shorter and your coffee table may not be as functional as you’d like it to be. Placing drinks or other items on a short coffee table may not be an easy reach or a comfortable angle from a seated position on the sofa.

Coffee table length and width

Coffee table length and width should leave about 18 inches between the table’s edge and your sofa and chairs. This gives you enough space to move easily around the living room without stubbed toes or knocked knees. Likely, because of these parameters, you might need a smaller coffee table than you initially thought.

Table with coffee cup on it
TierneyMJ / Shutterstock

Look for a coffee table with versatility

In your small living room, you need all the space you can get, right? Maximize your square footage with a coffee table that has extra features, making it a multiuse item that reduces the need for additional storage and furniture.

Extra seating

Small living rooms tend to have limited seating, so we recommend going with a coffee table that doubles as an extra seat. Benches, ottomans, and even trunks can serve as coffee tables on a daily basis. Then, when more seating is needed, you can quickly transform it into a comfortable space to seat your extra guests.

Built-in storage

If you don’t have space in your living room for a bookshelf, board game cabinet, or a basket for your throw blankets, choose a coffee table with built-in storage. A functional trunk, storage ottoman, fabric storage bench, or table with cube storage underneath are great space-saving options.

Convenient extension features

Tables with extenders give you the flexibility to customize their size depending on the occasion. Consider a nesting coffee table, which has a hidden second table that you can pull out for more surface area. Further, removable trays that rest on the table make hosting a breeze, as you can sit around the table to snack or also pass it around to share appetizers across the room.

minimal and modern living room with wood coffee table and pink cushions on sofa
Adobe Stock

What shape is best for a small living room coffee table?

When choosing the right coffee table for your small living room, you’ll want to ensure that you’re maximizing the functionality of your table while still prioritizing plenty of walking space. Unfortunately, while circular and round coffee tables look incredible in many living rooms, they aren’t the best option if you’re working with limited square footage. A circular table has too much “unused” surface in the center and often takes up a lot of walking space.

Instead, when working with a small living room, you should opt for a rectangular or oval shape for your coffee table. Rectangle coffee tables have plenty of functional space that everyone can enjoy. Additionally, you can easily find the length of coffee table that suits your couch, so every guest has a spot at the table. And if you favor rounded edges, an oval table better maximizes your coffee table space without interfering with walkways like circular tables often do.

When furnishing a small living room, don’t limit yourself to traditional styles. The most common style of coffee tables just may not work in your space. Instead, get creative and pick pieces that fit both the size and style of your space. Whether it’s an ottoman-turned table or a DIY side table made out of a few 2 x 4s, your coffee table can be a unique and useful piece that fits perfectly and elegantly in your small but cozy space.

Editors' Recommendations

Veronica Sparks
Veronica Sparks is a writer from Milwaukee, Wisconsin who loves writing about gardening, home décor, and DIY life. She’s…
The best greige paint colors that will completely refresh your home
Try these greige paint colors for a change of scenery
Greige living room with brick wall

In the realm of interior design, finding the perfect neutral hue can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Greige, a sophisticated blend of gray and beige, has emerged as a timeless favorite for its ability to effortlessly complement a variety of styles and aesthetics.

Whether used as a wall color, trim accent, or foundation for decor, greige offers a subtle yet elegant backdrop that enhances any room. If you’re searching for the best greige paint colors, we’ve got you covered! Keep reading to find out why it’s a great color, how best to use it, and some of our favorite greige paints.

Read more
How to feng shui your bedroom: The dos and don’ts
Tips for energy flow and a balanced space
Bright modern bedroom with wood floor and white linens

Your bedroom is more than just a place to sleep. It's a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. To achieve the perfect balance of harmony and energy flow in your bedroom, consider the ancient art of feng shui. In this guide, we'll explore the dos and don'ts of creating a feng shui bedroom, helping you create a space that promotes restful sleep and positive energy.

What is feng shui?
Feng shui, often referred to as the "art of placement," is a traditional Chinese practice that involves arranging your environment to enhance the flow of energy, or "chi." In the context of your bedroom, feng shui principles can be applied to create a space that promotes serenity, relaxation, and overall well-being.

Read more
9 amazing accent wall ideas for your home
These accent wall ideas will add a splash of style to any space
Gray and shiplap accent walls

When it comes to giving your home a fresh and exciting makeover, one of the easiest and most impactful ways to do it is by creating an accent wall. An accent wall is a focal point in a room that draws attention and adds character to the space. It's a canvas for your creativity and can transform the entire look and feel of a room. Let's explore nine amazing accent wall ideas that will inspire you to revamp your living spaces.

1. Bold colors: A classic among accent wall ideas
One of the most timeless and straightforward ways to create an accent wall is by using bold colors in contrast to the other white or neutral-colored walls. Choose a vibrant paint color for your accent wall that contrasts with the rest of the room. This can be a deep blue in an otherwise neutral room or a fiery red in a sea of grays. Bold colors make a strong statement and are an excellent choice for those looking to add drama and personality to their space.

Read more