The Only Coffee Table Buying Guide You Need

A coffee table is more than just a surface to rest your drink—it’s the anchor of your living room. The right piece ties your space together, adds style, and offers practical functionality. But with endless designs, materials, and sizes available, how do you choose the perfect one for your home?

This guide breaks down everything you need to know before buying a coffee table, so you can make the right choice the first time.

1. Start With Size and Proportion

The first step in choosing a coffee table is making sure it works with your sofa and room layout.

• Height: A coffee table should be about the same height as your sofa seat cushions, or slightly lower. Typically, that’s between 40–50 cm.
• Length: Aim for a coffee table that’s about two-thirds the length of your sofa.
• Space: Leave at least 40–50 cm between the edge of your sofa and the coffee table to allow for comfortable movement.

✅ Tip: Use painter’s tape on the floor to mark the dimensions before buying—it helps you visualize the scale in your room.

2. Choose the Right Shape

The shape of your coffee table should complement both your seating arrangement and your lifestyle.

• Rectangular: Classic and versatile—perfect for long sofas or sectional seating.
• Round/Oval: Great for smaller spaces and households with kids, as they have no sharp corners.
• Square: Works well with large sofas or paired seating areas.
• Nest/Modular: Ideal for flexible spaces—nesting tables can be moved around when entertaining.

3. Consider Material and Style

The material you choose will define the mood of your living room.

• Wood: Warm, timeless, and durable—great for Hamptons or coastal-inspired interiors.
• Glass: Creates an airy, open feel—perfect for smaller rooms or modern spaces.
• Marble/Stone: Luxurious and elegant—adds a premium touch to your décor.
• Metal: Industrial or contemporary—pairs beautifully with minimalist interiors.

Match your coffee table to your existing décor. For example, a white-washed timber table pairs perfectly with Hamptons-style sofas, while a sleek black metal frame suits a modern apartment.

4. Functionality Matters

A coffee table should be more than just pretty—it should work for your lifestyle.

• Storage: Choose a design with drawers or shelves if you want to hide remotes, books, or games.
• Lift-Top: Perfect for small apartments—these can double as a dining surface or home office desk.
• Display-Friendly: Tables with open bases or glass tops are great for showcasing décor without clutter.

5. Colour and Finish

When in doubt, go neutral. Shades like grey, white, natural oak, or black are timeless and easy to style.

For bold interiors, a statement finish—like a marble top or deep walnut veneer—can serve as the centrepiece of your living room.

6. Styling Your Coffee Table

Once you’ve found the perfect table, elevate it with thoughtful styling.

• Use a tray to group candles, books, or decorative accents.
• Add a touch of greenery with a small indoor plant or fresh flowers.
• Keep it balanced—mix tall and short objects for visual interest.

7. Where to Buy the Best Coffee Tables

At Ele Living, we curate a collection of coffee tables designed for Australian homes—whether you’re looking for a Hamptons-inspired timber piece or a sleek modern design.

✨ Shop our collection today and find the coffee table that completes your living room.

Coffee Table Buying FAQs

Q1: What size coffee table is best for a living room?
The ideal coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa, with 40–50 cm of space left around it for easy movement. The height should match or be slightly lower than your sofa cushions.

Q2: What shape coffee table works best with a sectional sofa?
Rectangular or oval coffee tables pair best with sectional sofas, as they balance the longer seating arrangement while keeping access easy for everyone.

Q3: Are round coffee tables good for small spaces?
Yes. Round and oval coffee tables are excellent for smaller living rooms because they allow smoother movement and don’t have sharp corners—making them safer for children and pets.

Q4: Which material is most durable for a coffee table?
Solid wood and engineered wood are among the most durable options. If you prefer a luxurious finish, stone or marble is strong but requires more care. Glass tables are stylish but may need regular cleaning to avoid fingerprints.

Q5: Should a coffee table be darker or lighter than my sofa?
It depends on the look you want. A lighter coffee table (like natural oak or white) creates a bright, airy feel, while a darker one (like walnut or black) adds contrast and sophistication. Grey tones are versatile and suit almost any décor.

Q6: How do I style a coffee table?
Use trays to organise small décor items, add a plant or flowers for freshness, and balance tall and short accessories like candles, vases, and books. Keep it simple—avoid overcrowding.

Q7: Where can I buy quality coffee tables in Australia?
You can shop online at Ele Living, where we offer a curated collection of modern, Hamptons, and contemporary coffee tables designed for Australian homes.