One classic coffee table size is 48 by 24 inches, so you can plan on that when thinking about your furniture arrangement. A large coffee table is often double that: 48 inches square.

Coffee tables should be the same height as the surrounding seating, with 18 inches being a good average (although it will depend on your furniture).

When you have two sofas or any larger seating arrangement, a big coffee table might seem like the obvious solution. But also consider a pair of matching coffee tables.

Metal bases with glass tops are a good choice to keep rooms feeling open. They’re also great when you have a special rug and don’t want to block views of it.

Round coffee tables aid circulation, especially where there are many available seats, as in this example. If not every seat can reach the table, make sure there’s another surface at hand.

Using a vintage object for a coffee table adds a bit of history — a story — to a room, and is one of my favorite things to do.

The best rule when buying a coffee table is to make sure the table works for your space as well as for your aesthetic.

Article published on Houzz.com

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