Getting a table just for coffee can be a very sensible choice for many reasons because it:
- Acts as a centerpiece in any room.
- Bridges the gap in large spaces.
- Can serve multiple purposes.
- Adds a touch of style.
- Provides versatility as it comes in many shapes and sizes.
- Can provide additional storage space.
- Can be portable.
- Keeps your living room tidy.
- Can last a lifetime.
Note that a coffee table is usually best suited for larger rooms as it can help make them feel more comfortable by occupying space and acting as the centerpiece in the room.
However – coffee tables might not be a great option for smaller rooms where space is tight.
But there are still portable and compact models that can work really well even in a small space so don’t feel discouraged if your living room is on the smaller side.
To help you get a better idea of why you might need a coffee table, in this article I’ll also cover the following topics:
- A closer look at the top 9 reasons for wanting a coffee table.
- The main factors to consider when buying a table just for coffee.
- Several less-known uses for coffee tables.
- 7 practical coffee table alternatives that you can try.
- Additional facts about tables just for coffee.
Table of Contents
9 Reasons Why You Want a Coffee Table
Here are 9 hand-picked and sensible reasons for adding a coffee table to your room:
1. It Brings the Whole Interior together
A coffee table acts as the centerpiece in any room, especially larger ones.
Since coffee tables are usually placed in the middle of the room, they attract the most attention and this makes the room feel more complete and less empty.
2. A Coffee Table Bridges the Gap in Large Rooms
Coffee tables fill up large empty spaces that wouldn’t benefit from adding tables and chairs as they just wouldn’t look good.
A coffee table that sits in the middle of two large sofas bridges the gap between them and makes other pieces of furniture look more compact.
3. A Coffee Table Can Serve Multiple Purposes
A coffee table is a practical piece of furniture that accommodates various drinks, foods and other items.
You can not only use it to place cups of coffee on top, but also for tea, snacks, remote controls and other various items.
- Also read: Best lift-top coffee tables
4. Coffee Tables are Typically Very Stylish
A coffee table can add a much-needed touch of style and increase the interior design appeal of your home.
Coffee tables can complement almost any sofa and chair and bring out the best of the room that it’s placed in.
5. Coffee Tables Comes in Many Shapes and Sizes
Coffee tables provide a wide range of style, size and shape options, which makes it easy to find the one that would match other pieces of furniture in your living room or patio.
The most popular coffee table styles include:
- Shaker.
- Cottage.
- Industrial.
- Parsons.
- Modern.
- Contemporary coffee tables.
While coffee tables come in different shapes such as:
- Round.
- Oval.
- Square.
- Rectangular.
- Abstract.
6. A Coffee Table Can Provide More Storage Space
Some coffee tables come with one or several small compartments and shelves that provide even more storage space for various items.
7. There are Portable Coffee Table Models
Portable and lightweight coffee tables are a great option if you want a coffee table that’s easy to move around the house.
Also, depending on the material, they can be used as outdoor coffee tables too.
8. A Coffee Table Keeps Your Living Room Tidy
Putting cups of coffee and snack on the floor will inevitably increase the chances of accidentally spilling something and making a huge mess.
That’s why you can put everything on a coffee table so that everyone can reach them easily and by doing so you will prevent any accidental spills to keep your living room clean.
9. Coffee Tables Can Last a Lifetime
A table just for coffee that’s made of solid materials and that’s properly taken care of can very well last a lifetime.
Moreover, you can also pass your coffee table down as a family heirloom if needed.
Consider This When Buying a Table Just for Coffee
When buying a table just for coffee, consider important factors for choosing the right coffee table for you such as size, height, weight, shape and material.
Size
The size of the coffee table should match the size of your living room and your furniture – including sofas and chairs.
Height
A table just for coffee should be the same height (or 1 to 2 inches lower) as your
sofa.
Weight
Coffee tables can weigh anywhere from 10 lbs all the way up to 50 lbs, depending on the material.
Basically, the lighter the table, the easier it will be for you to change move it around your home.
Shape
Coffee tables come in all kinds of shapes such as:
- Oval
- Square
- Rectangular
- Asymmetric
Material
Lastly, coffee tables are typically made of the following materials (or a combination of them):
- Wood
- Iron
- Glass
- Plastic
- Aluminum
- Rattan
3 Less Obvious Uses for Coffee Tables
Although the primary purpose for having a coffee table is to serve coffee on it (obviously), there are 3 less obvious purposes of a coffee table that can be used for:
1. Playing Games and Putting Puzzles
Any coffee table can easily be transformed into a practical and convenient place where adults and kids can play various games.
The smooth surface makes coffee tables a great option for putting a puzzle together.
But it’s also very practical for playing board games, checkers or card games in general.
2. Acting as Accent Furniture in Your Living Room
Accent furniture is a type of furniture that simply stands out from any other furniture or decorations in a room.
And some coffee tables that are made of marble, wood, glass or stone can be effectively used as superb decorative accents.
The most typical way of adding more oomph to the decorative accent of a coffee table is by displaying books or flowers.
3. Storing Various Items and Things
Coffee tables can also be used as small storage places that can accommodate various items such as newspapers, books, games and magazines.
You can also use them as practical organizational space for your family or even as the homework storage center of your house.
This is What Coffee Tables Can Also Be Used For:
- Footrest.
- Display shelf.
- Temporary desk.
7 Very Practical Coffee Table Alternatives
Although coffee tables are a staple in just about every living room, you might struggle with tight space or maybe you just need something more child-proof.
This is why you should consider the following great and super practical coffee table alternatives, starting with the kid-friendly options first:
1. Poufs
Two poufs can be a great substitute for a regular coffee table as they’re versatile, modern and really practical.
The lack of sharp edges and soft structure makes them ideal for children.
Poufs also have many additional uses such as serving as extra seats, a footrest or even as a side table.
2. A Plush Ottoman
A plush ottoman can kill two birds with one stone as it’s arguably just as practical as a traditional coffee table, while also being super kid-friendly due to the soft edges.
Ottomans can also be used as practical albeit unorthodox seats if you have extra guests.
3. A Round C-Side Table
Round C-side tables are a great, space-saving alternative and it’s very easy to move them around the house due to their compact size.
The soft and round sides are perfect for children and you can even use them as an improvised work desk if need be.
4. Round Side Tables
Using a pair of side tables can be a fabulous coffee table alternative that’ll add more individuality to your living room.
Side tables also come with lots of versatility as you can move them around without any problems in case you’re hosting a party or simply have a tad too many guests.
5. Plush Stools
A plush stool (or several stools) is a very cost-effective, child-friendly and space-saving replacement for a coffee table.
And when you don’t need it to act as a coffee table substitute, you can simply use it as intended – as an additional seating option.
6. A Storage Ottoman
Although it’s not as child-safe as a plush ottoman, a storage ottoman is still a viable coffee table substitute that also comes with the added benefit of having a hidden storage compartment.
It can be used for storing various things and it can also serve as an extra seat.
7. Rounded Bench
The bench is another great alternative that’s highly versatile as it can be used as an additional seating option or a smooth storage surface.
I’d recommend getting a rounded bench to avoid hitting your knees or shins on the hard edges of regular benches, especially if you have kids at home.
Other Useful Facts About Tables Just for Coffee
Below you’ll find a few additional facts about coffee tables that you need to know about:
Coffee Tables Can Be Used in Small Spaces As Well
Although a coffee table would be a more optimal choice for larger rooms, it can still be a great option for smaller spaces.
There is a wide range of small and compact coffee tables, some of which provide practical storage space as well.
You just have to be careful when sifting through different models to find a compact one that won’t be too big for your place.
Side Tables Can be a Good Coffee Table Substitute
You can totally use a side table as a substitute for an actual coffee table, whether it’s one or several mismatched side tables or a C-side table.
Alternatively, if you don’t have a coffee table or side table, you can use one of the following things to serve the same function:
- Stool
- Storage ottoman
- Bench
- A pair of pous
Coffee Tables Can Be Used for Other Items As Well
Apart from the obvious cup or cups of coffee, a coffee table can be used for storing various other beverages, drinks and items such as:
- Drinks
- Foods
- Candles
- Books
- Magazines
- Remote controls
- Decorative items
Coffee Tables Have Taken Over Tea Tables
Tea tables become immensely popular in the 17th and 18th centuries since they let people place their hot drinks (tea or coffee) on a designated table, instead of on the floor.
But with time, coffee took over and became more popular than tea, thus the name – coffee table.
- Also read: Best coffee table for a sectional sofa
Conclusion
In this article, I’ve covered the top 9 sensible reasons as to why you want a table just for coffee, as well as other practical uses for coffee tables, what to consider when buying one and more.
Some of the great reasons for having a coffee table include:
- Bridge the gap in large rooms and make them feel more comfortable.
- Adds style and serves various purposes.
- Offers portability, versatility and extra storage space.
- Can last a lifetime and helps to keep your living room tidy.
A table just for coffee is a staple piece in most living rooms as you can place other drinks and snacks on top of it or use it as a leg rest.
However, coffee tables are more suitable for larger rooms and spaces, although there are compact and portable models out there.
References:
- https://www.ballarddesigns.com/howtodecorate/2019/05/need-a-coffee-table/
- https://thearchitecturedesigns.com/reasons-why-you-need-a-coffee-table-in-your-living-room/
- https://www.hebeiyifanwood.com/news/the-truth-about-coffee-tables-and-why-you-need-one/
- http://blog.lafurniturestore.com/the-top-reasons-why-a-coffee-table-is-a-necessity-in-every-living-
room/ - https://www.furniturestop.co.uk/blogs/inspired-blog/5-of-the-many-uses-of-coffee-tables
- https://homeworldhawaii.com/2015/07/17/the-short-history-of-coffee-tables/
- https://www.makaan.com/iq/living/7-tips-to-choose-the-perfect-coffee-table
- https://www.houzz.com/magazine/how-to-pick-out-a-coffee-table-stsetivw-vs~27686787
- https://oureverydaylife.com/purpose-of-coffee-tables-12262362.html
- https://www.thespruce.com/ways-to-use-accent-furniture-1391610
- https://blog.modsy.com/home-design-tips-guides/tips-guides/coffee-table-ideas-things-you-can-use-instead/
Last update on 2022-05-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
