A coffee table is the centre of the living room: it holds drinks, books and remotes, and it ties the sofa area together. Getting the size and height right matters more than most people expect. This guide gives you simple rules and helps you compare shapes and materials.

Coffee Table Height

The most comfortable height is about the same as the sofa seat, or a few centimetres lower. Typical coffee tables are around 35 to 50cm high. If your sofa seat is 45cm, a table between 40 and 45cm works well. A table that is much higher than the seat makes it awkward to reach, and one that is much lower can be hard to use for drinks.

Coffee Table Size and Length

A good rule is that the table should be about two thirds the length of the sofa. For a 200cm sofa, look for a table around 120 to 135cm long. For a small coffee table, 60 to 90cm works in a compact living room or alongside a small two-seater. Leave around 40 to 45cm between the sofa and the table, so you can reach it and still walk past.

Room	Suggested table size
Small living room or flat	60 to 90cm, round or oval
Standard living room with 3 seater	100 to 120cm
Large living room with corner sofa	120 to 140cm or a nest of two

Which Shape Is Best?

Round coffee tables

A round coffee table has no corners, so it is good for family homes and tight spaces. See our round coffee tables.

Oval coffee tables

Oval tables are long and soft-edged, a good middle ground between round and rectangular. See oval coffee tables.

Square coffee tables

Squares suit square seating arrangements and corners. See square coffee tables.

Rectangular coffee tables

The classic shape for long sofas. See rectangular coffee tables.

Choosing a Material

• Oak coffee tables bring warmth and character, and suit scandi, rustic and modern rooms. See oak coffee tables.
• Marble coffee tables add elegance. Many are marble effect rather than real stone, so check the description. See marble coffee tables.
• Glass looks light in a small space but shows fingerprints.
• Metal frames in black or gold add a modern edge.

Do You Need Storage?

A coffee table with storage, using drawers, shelves or a lift-up top, keeps remotes, books and throws out of sight. In a small room, storage can save you buying another unit. See coffee tables with storage. If you prefer a clear surface, choose an open design with a lower shelf.

Using a Coffee Table With Side Tables

A coffee table and side tables set can create a layered look. Place side tables at the ends of the sofa, at a similar height to the arm, and keep the coffee table in front. Browse our side tables.

Quick Checklist

1. Measure your sofa length and seat height.
2. Choose a table height at or just below seat height.
3. Leave 40 to 45cm between the sofa and the table.
4. Pick a shape that suits your room and walkways.
5. Check the material and care requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should a coffee table be?

About the same height as your sofa seat or slightly lower, often 40 to 45cm.

What size coffee table for a small living room?

Choose a table around 60 to 90cm long, ideally round or oval.

Can I use two small tables instead of one large one?

Yes. Two smaller tables can be moved to suit the room and are useful for larger spaces.