Choosing a coffee table is not something most people prioritize when it comes to decorating their living room. Yes, it serves a practical purpose because where else will we be able to artfully lay down a book or a bunch of magazines for guests to peruse? Still, it serves as an afterthought compared to how much time and effort is spent getting the sofa, rug, and even the curtains right. But the coffee table is so much more than just a resting place for your stuff. It can double up as a stool if you lack seating for guests. It can add character to your living space, depending on what treasured trinkets you want to place there. It can also function as storage space, though this will depend on the features of your coffee table.
Oval Coffee Tables Buying Guide:
So, you want to buy an oval coffee table. There are plenty of options to choose from, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one for your living room. Right? Well, that’s certainly true if you don’t mind just getting the first coffee table that you come across. But if you want to get the best oval coffee table that looks perfect in your living space, then you need to make sure you follow the rules below.
Rule #1: Get the size right.
If you want your oval coffee table to complement the rest of your existing furniture, you need to make sure that it has the right scale and proportion. The height of your table should be the same as the top of your sofa’s cushions. You can get away with something an inch or two lower, but any more than that and it will look a little awkward.
Aside from height, you also need to make sure to get the right length. Your oval coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of your sofa. So, if you have a sofa that measures 96 inches long, then your coffee table should be approximately 64 inches long.
Size is not just about how long or how high your coffee table is. It also requires you to take clearance into account. There should be sufficient space around your coffee table that you can move around it easily, but not enough space that it’s too far for you to easily reach whatever’s on it. Typically, the space between your sofa and your table should be around 12 to 18 inches. If you have a TV or fireplace, leave around 24 to 30 inches of space between the table and them.
Rule #2: Choose the material that matches your decor and lifestyle.
Coffee tables come in a wide variety of materials – metal, wood, glass, etc. If you want a formal oval coffee table, you’ll want something delicate and fragile-looking such as glass. Like glass, clear acrylic can help make your living room look more open. However, if you have kids in the house, something durable and sturdy would be better such as wood or metal. If you want something modern, glass, metal, and acrylic would look great. A traditional room would require your coffee table to be made of wood or marble.
Rule #3: Consider the functionality.
Obviously, your oval coffee table will be used to hold books, phones, food, and drinks. But coffee tables can have multiple purposes. You can choose a table that provides additional storage space such as shelves or drawers. Some coffee tables feature casters and wheels to make them easier to move around when necessary. You should also think about what you’ll be doing on the coffee table. Will you be using it to play board games? How about puzzles? If you entertain people in your home, will your coffee table serve as a secondary dining table?
Finding the right coffee table to match your needs requires thoughtful consideration. But you shouldn’t feel overwhelmed. Just make sure to follow the rules above and enjoy your shopping.
Our Selected Winners
Oval Coffee Tables under $50
Oval Coffee Tables under $100
Oval Coffee Tables under $200
Oval Coffee Tables under $500
- North American Cherry Veneer
- Frosted glass top
- Stylish and functional shelf