How High Should a Coffee Table Be? A Complete Guide to Finding the Perfect Height
When designing or renovating a living room, one of the most unnoticed details is how high your coffee table should be. The ideal coffee table height isn’t just about the design aspect it’s about comfort and function. You want to create an atmosphere that feels effortless and sleek. Depending on your taste you can opt for a solid wood coffee table, a glass coffee table, or grand statement piece. Regardless of your style, the right height makes a major difference.
What Is the Ideal Coffee Table Height?
The general rule of thumb for the ideal coffee table height is easy:
Your coffee table should be about 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or chairs.
For standard living rooms, this infers a coffee table that’s between 16 to 18 inches high. If you have a rather tall sofa, you might feel more comfortable with a coffee table closer to 19 or even 20 inches.
Quick Formula:
• Standard sofa seat height = 17–19 inches
• Standard coffee table height = 16–18 inches
Maintaining the coffee table slightly lower than your seating helps create a more cozy, open feel and makes it simpler to grab your beverages, books, or decor.
At Two Seventy Nine, we offer fan favorites such as the Solid Wood Acacia Wood Coffee Table with Tempered Glass. Our coffee table is made for every space and will look elegant and effortless in your living room. This coffee table will enhance the atmosphere while creating optimal comfort.
Why Coffee Table Height Matters
Let’s be honest, when deciding on the right height is not only about how it looks. A table that's too high can feel uncomfortable when you're seated. A table that's falls too low might make everyday use awkward or less than ideal. The perfect height ensures:
• Comfortable reach for beverages, food, and tv remotes
• Visual balance between furniture pieces
• A cohesive flow in your living room and home
Height plays a major role in the form and function of a comfortable apartment, whether you choose a bigger square coffee table or a smaller glass coffee table. Keep this in mind when you are measuring.
Special Considerations: Entryway Benches and Dual-Use Spaces
If your coffee table doubles as additional seating (like an entryway bench), slightly higher heights around 18 to 20 inches can be a bit better. Similarly, if you use ottomans or low poufs alongside your coffee table, you may decide on a lower profile to match.
How to Measure for the Perfect Coffee Table
Here’s a short step-by-step guide:
• Measure the seat height of your sofa (floor to top of cushion).
• Subtract 1 to 2 inches.
• Look for a coffee table that falls within that range.
For example:
If your sofa seat height is 18 inches → Opt for a coffee table around 16–17 inches tall.
If you're searching and shopping online, make sure to check the product specifications for height details, especially when contemplating between options like a solid wood coffee table or a glass coffee table that may vary in thickness or design.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Fit
Coffee tables come in many different shapes and forms, but ultimately finding the right height ensures your living room stays cozy, functional, and gorgeous. Always seek for a table that's just a little lower than your seating for the best balance.
Browse our coffee table collection here and find the perfect fit for your home.