Tuesday, May 24, 2011

What To Consider When Buying A Coffee Table

A glass top coffee table adds a sleek, modern feel to your room.


A coffee table is a staple furniture item in many living rooms, family rooms and dens. It can be used to showcase decorative items, hold beverages and store remote controls, magazines, books and other entertainment-related items. If you are in the market for a new coffee table, you may be overwhelmed by the number of options and styles that are available. However, keeping just a few key factors in mind while shopping can help ensure that you wind up with the ideal coffee table for your home. Does this Spark an idea?


Material


The material that a coffee table is made from has a major impact on its overall look. You can find tables in a variety of materials. Solid wood is one of the most traditional options because it is highly durable and can be incorporated into a variety of decorating styles. Glass top tables are an ideal option if you prefer a sleek, modern look, while wicker and bamboo complement a more casual design style. You can also purchase a coffee table that is made from particleboard and covered in veneer. It is a budget-friendly option but not very durable. Wrought iron, aluminum and acrylic are other material options for your table.


Style


In addition to its material, pay attention to a coffee table's style. If your home features a more modern style, opt for a table that has clean lines and a minimalist design. However, in a living room that features an Old World decorating style, opt for a coffee table that has carved legs and intricate detail work.


Shape


You can find coffee tables in a variety of shapes, but the most traditional is the oblong, which is almost rectangular but features rounded sides. A square coffee table can provide a symmetrical look, but they are often oversized and may not fit a smaller room. Instead, consider a circular table for a living room or den that is tight on space because it does not have any edges so it is easy to navigate around.


Size


Another important factor in finding the ideal coffee table for your home is size. Determine how much space is available for your table and consider the scale of the other furniture in the room. When purchasing a traditional oblong-shaped table, opt for one that is approximately half the length of the sofa and 20 to 30 inches in width. However, if you decide on a square or rectangular table, make sure that there are several feet between it and the couch so you and your family can maneuver around it. Remember to consider a coffee table's height as well. Traditionally, it should be about as high as the seat of your sofa. However, some modern coffee tables are purposely designed to be lower than the sofa for a more interesting look.


Storage


If your living room or den is short on space, you may want to consider a coffee table that provides room for storage. Some tables feature drawers beneath the surface, which are ideal for discretely storing items so the table itself does not become cluttered. Others have shelving beneath the table top where magazines, remote controls and other items may be kept. In addition, you can opt for a coffee table that has a lift top, which is an ideal spot to keep blankets and throws.







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