Coffee Table Height Guide
Discover how high your coffee table should be and how much space to leave around it
Kelsey Roadruck
February 26, 2018
Houzz Contributor
Shopping for a coffee table is an exciting step in decorating. The large spectrum of styles, shapes and finishes available can be overwhelming and quickly overshadow the importance of a table’s size. However, any designer will tell you that getting a coffee table’s height right will ensure both style and function. To begin, think about your table’s purpose and your lifestyle.
What’s the Average Length of a Coffee Table?
The scale of your coffee table should be in proportion to its surrounding furniture, whether that’s a sectional, love seat or a pair of armchairs. Whatever you kick back and relax on, make sure your coffee table is approximately two-thirds its length.
What’s the Correct Placement for a Coffee Table?
The placement of a coffee table will really make or break the functionality of the piece or the room in which it’s placed. 16 to 18 inches is the sweet spot between couch and coffee table. However, 14 inches should still be enough space for you and guests to comfortably stretch your legs if you’re working around a smaller room. On the other side of the table, you’ll want at least 24 inches of living space, but 30 inches is a more comfortable distance between table and TV.
What Size Coffee Table Do You Need?
As you browse furniture, remember the following coffee table dimensions:
Before you buy, use removable painter’s tape to mark the space your coffee table will take up so you can get a real feel for whether it’s a right fit.
Explore more coffee table must-haves on Houzz:
How to Decorate a Coffee Table
Average-Height Coffee Tables
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- Height: 16-18 inches
- Length: Two-thirds length of sofa
- Distance from sofa: 14-18 inches
- Distance from opposite wall: At least 24-30 inches
Before you buy, use removable painter’s tape to mark the space your coffee table will take up so you can get a real feel for whether it’s a right fit.
Explore more coffee table must-haves on Houzz:
How to Decorate a Coffee Table
Average-Height Coffee Tables
Coffee Table Sets
Drink Coasters