Designing your dream coffee table

Bespoke coffee tables

A coffee table is more than just a practical piece of furniture - it’s the heart of your living room. It’s a conversation starter and a place to rest your coffee (or tea!).

Whether you’re spending time with friends and family or taking a break while working from home, the right coffee table can truly tie your space together.

At All in Stone, we craft bespoke stone coffee tables, tailored entirely to your needs and design preferences. You can even begin designing your dream coffee table on our website.

But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect one? From the right size to selecting the ideal material, let us talk you through everything you need to consider when designing a coffee table.

Choosing the right size

A coffee table that’s too big can overwhelm the room, while one that’s too small may not offer enough surface area for daily use.

Height

Ideally, your coffee table should be the same height as your sofa seat cushions or slightly lower. This allows you to reach the surface easily without having to stretch or lean awkwardly. A coffee table that is too high will disrupt the balance of the room and may feel awkward to use, while one that is too low might become impractical for regular activities like placing down your drink.

Width

The width of your bespoke coffee table should complement the length of your sofa. As a general rule, a coffee table should be about two-thirds of the length of your sofa. This creates a balanced appearance, ensuring that the table doesn’t dominate the space. On the other hand, a smaller sofa would require a narrower table to avoid overcrowding the room. Make sure to measure your sofa before making a decision to get this proportion just right.

Depth

You should leave approximately 12-18 inches of space between the coffee table and sofa for comfortable foot traffic and access. This space ensures that people can move around the room freely without feeling cramped. It also allows you to stretch your legs and place items on the table without obstruction. Don’t forget to account for other furniture in the room, such as TV stands or side tables, to ensure there’s enough space to comfortably move around your coffee table.

What shape is best when designing a coffee table?

The right shape can enhance the flow of the room, while the wrong one may create an awkward layout.

Rectangular

The classic rectangular coffee table is perfect for long sofas and sectional seating. It offers ample surface area, making it ideal for those who often have company. Rectangular tables are also great for larger rooms, as they can help to fill the space without feeling bulky.

Round

Round coffee tables are excellent for creating a softer, more inviting look. They work especially well in smaller spaces or with sofas that have a curved design. A round table can also be safer if you have young children, as there are no sharp corners. These tables encourage conversation, as guests can easily gather around them from all sides.

Square

Square coffee tables are best suited for more compact seating arrangements, such as smaller sofas. They offer a modern, symmetrical look and provide plenty of surface area without taking up too much room. However, they may not be the best option for narrow spaces, as they can sometimes make a room feel more confined.

Oval

An oval coffee table offers a perfect blend of rectangular and round. Its elongated shape makes it suitable for larger seating areas, while the rounded edges soften the look and make it easy to move around. Oval tables are ideal for creating a balanced aesthetic in rooms with mixed furniture shapes.

Selecting a coffee table colour

When it comes to selecting the colour of your coffee table, think about the overall design and mood of your space. If you want your table to blend seamlessly with the room, choose a neutral colour like beige, grey or white that complements the existing furniture.

On the other hand, if you want your bespoke coffee table to be a statement piece, you can consider bold hues. Deep woods can create a sense of luxury, whereas brightly coloured tables can add a pop of personality to an otherwise neutral room. Ensure that the colour ties into the larger design scheme of your space, whether by complementing or contrasting with other elements.

What material is best for my bespoke coffee table?

The material of your coffee table is just as important as its shape and size. At All in Stone, we are pleased to craft bespoke coffee tables, with a wide range of materials available to choose from - including, but not limited to:

Porcelain

Porcelain is a popular choice for coffee tables due to its durability and versatility. It offers a sleek, modern look that works well in contemporary spaces - and it’s highly resistant to stains and scratches. Porcelain is also easy to clean, making it a practical option for busy households or homes with children and pets. Its smooth, polished surface reflects light beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to any room.

Granite

Granite is a timeless material known for its strength and resilience. Granite coffee tables exude luxury and sophistication, making them a great centrepiece for formal living rooms. Its natural patterns and variations ensure that no two granite tables are alike, adding a unique element to your space. Granite is also heat-resistant, so you can place hot drinks or dishes on the surface without worrying about damage.

Marble

Marble is the epitome of elegance and style. Marble coffee tables instantly add a touch of glamour to any room. Their cool, smooth surface is not only beautiful but also durable. However, marble does require some maintenance, as it is more susceptible to staining and scratching compared to other stone materials. If you choose marble, be prepared to take extra care of your table, such as using coasters and wiping up spills promptly. Marble is perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of natural stone and don’t mind the extra upkeep.

Designing the right coffee table for your space

Once you’ve considered the size, shape, material and colour, other important aspects to consider include:

Consider the room layout

Your coffee table should enhance the flow of your living space, not obstruct it. Think about the placement of your sofa and other furniture. Will the coffee table allow for easy movement around the room? Is it positioned where it can be easily accessed from all seating areas?

Complementing your existing furniture

While the coffee table can be a statement piece, it should still complement the other furniture in your room. Look for a table that ties into the colour or style of your sofa and other accent pieces. For example, if you have a sleek, modern sofa, a minimalist stone coffee table with clean lines would be an ideal match. If your room has a more traditional aesthetic, consider a table made from richly textured materials like granite or marble.

Consider functionality

Your dream coffee table should not only be beautiful but also functional. Do you need extra storage space for books or remote controls? Some coffee tables come with built-in drawers or shelves to help keep your space organised. If you often have friends and family over, consider a table with a larger surface area for drinks and snacks. Think about how you’ll use the table on a day-to-day basis and choose a design that meets your needs.

Your dream coffee table, made just for you

With endless possibilities in material, shape, size and colour, you’re in complete control of the design process. Contact our experienced team today to start designing the bespoke coffee table of your dreams. Call us on 0161 960 0098 now.