Tips Before Buying a Coffee Table

Wednesday, August 23, 2006

For a long time, the coffee table was viewed as an also-ran in the glittering world of living space furniture. In the shadow of furniture pieces such as sofas, love seats, and chairs, the utilitarian coffee tables character was barely ever acknowledged.

Since then, homeowners have changed their position. Most of us now recognize the real aptitude of the coffee table. An important part of the living space in its own right, this piece of furniture is now accepted as a critical piece of furniture that sets the atmosphere of living area decor.

What to Remember

The style, shape, and size of your coffee table should be based on two critical criteria: the current style of your interior decor and what usage the table is going to have within the space. If young children are at home, the table should be robust and functional, whereas if you entertain often, you should keep functionality as well as appearance in mind.

What Style to Choose

The ideal table should not only become part of your living area setting, it should also be functional and sturdy. While choosing a coffee table, you must take into account its usability and convenience as well as the style of your living space.

Traditional Coffee Tables

Traditional coffee tables can either be elaborately carved or have a plain, understated appearance. These coffee tables are usually crafted from wood, hardwood solids, veneers, or a combination of wood components. They typically have sumptuous details, vertical lines, rigorous symmetry, and high-gloss finishes that accent formal home interior decors.

Some traditional coffee tables include a decorative metal or wrought iron base with a glass top. Striking a balance between classic styling and trendy look, these tables are consistently gaining in popularity.

Contemporary Coffee Tables

Contemporary coffee tables typically present clean lines, bold colors, and a spare, minimalist design. Modern coffee tables are regularly made from metal, glass, leather, or stone and may sport geometric or other artistic shapes. Contemporary designs in wood are in addition really prevalent.

The right-sized coffee table

A standard coffee table height is typically between 16 to 18 inches. If you entertain frequently, you may like your coffee table to be higher so your guests won't be inconvenienced while setting down their drinks.

One prevalent guideline is that your coffee table should be about the same height, or about 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of your sofa. The perfect length of the coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of the sofa.

However, the right size and height of a coffee table should be determined by the dimensions of your other living space furniture in conjunction with your comfort level and convenience.

About the Author:

Browse a large selection of tables at http://www.symphonycoffeetables.com. You will be able to view the style of coffee tables that fits your needs.

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