Providing a handy surface for books, mugs, magazines and remote controls, the trusty coffee table is one functional furniture piece we couldn’t live without. But beyond its obvious practical appeal it also has the ability to bring the room together, creating an important focal point – and a sociable one at that.
With modular seating and corner sofas as popular as ever, a circular coffee table can work wonders: wrap your L-shaped settee around it for the full effect. If you’re short on space, however, you’d be wise to opt for a classic rectangular piece that sits snugly in front of your two-seater, without encroaching on your limited square footage.
Look for a coffee table with extra storage space if you’re drowning in clutter. This could be as simple as a shelf that sits below the table top, effectively doubling the surface area, or one with hidden nooks for books.
Think about height, too. We found a number of designs that are particularly low-sitting. These have a relaxed look and feel, bringing a laid-back aesthetic to modern living spaces, while taller designs can bring a more formal element.
Our round-up of the best coffee tables includes designs from the mid-century inspired to the Deco-fabulous and the clean-lined and contemporary. In testing these, we looked for top craftsmanship, style and functionality.
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