An expert answers all your coffee table questions.
According to interior designer Ellie Christopher, its more of an art.
However, there is certainly a wrong answer: A too-small coffee table is a major home decorating woe.
Credit:HECTOR MANUEL SANCHEZ STYLING BY: HOLLY SMITH
When in doubt, an oversized coffee table is preferable over an undersized one, Christopher says.
Be careful not to go too big or your coffee table may become an off-scale island anchoring your room.
To avoid doubt in the first place, weve rounded up Christopher’s answers to common coffee table questions.
Credit:Jessica Glynn; Stylist: Liz Strong
One’s that’s not too short, either, but just the right height.
Jessica Glynn; Stylist: Liz Strong
What Size Should My Coffee Table Be?
The standard sofa is about 8 feet long.
Credit:Ellie Christopher
It’s like being overdressed.
You’d rather be overdressed to a party than underdressed.
For a coffee table, you’d rather be a little bit too big than too small.
To determine the ideal-sized coffee table your room requires, Christopher recommends going by a rule of two-thirds.
This means that in many cases, the ideal coffee table will be two-thirds the length of theadjacent sofa.
How Tall Should My Coffee Table Be?
There is, however, an exception to this rule.
Some older coffee tables that are French and frilly have those tall, pretty legs.
In aformal space, youre definitely not going to be putting your feet on those.
They are just there to look nice, Christopher explains.
Ellie Christopher
What Shape Coffee Table Should I Get?
To pleasantly contrast with rectangular furniture, Christopher will use a circle or oval coffee table.
But for rounded or ornate furniture, she suggests choosing a more angular, geometric table.
Where Should I Put My Coffee Table?
Christopher says the standard distance is 18 to 24 inches away from the sofa or chair.
However, theres some wiggle room to this guidance depending on the needs of your space.
It really depends on the scale of the room.
Then, you’re free to also have more decorative objects on the coffee table.
How Can I Decorate My Coffee Table?
If your coffee table is an ottoman, start with a tray to stabilize the decor and drinks.
She also recommends incorporating flowers, a sweet-smelling candle or two, and personal trinkets and souvenirs.
When arranging tabletop decor, follow the rule of three.
This is a bit of a trade secret, Christopher says.
Many people opt foran ottomanas a coffee table.
Just think about the rest of your rooms decor and style and what material would fit best.
You should also factor in lifestyle.
If your couch is taller, for example, you want your table to be proportional.
