We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Elevate your home without breaking the bank. Glass Dressing Table Suppliers
Coffee tables serve a myriad of functions, from hiding clutter to displaying decorative objects, and are considered an essential piece of furniture in living rooms and snugs.
Coffee tables are multifunctional, meaning they can be used for just about anything. Use it as a spot to show off your favourite ornaments, put your feet up, or keep your drinks nearby. As Brendon Haxby, co-founder of Naken.co.uk, says: 'If you feel your living room looks a little stark, a new coffee table can fill that gap. They are also ideal for entertaining and offer an extra surface when needed.'
Tight on space? Opt for a coffee table with storage which includes either drawers or shelves, so you can still display your coffee table books, magazines and plants, plus keep television remotes nearby.
Oval or circular coffee tables (or those with curved silhouettes) are best for smaller living rooms as they are generally designed to fit compact spaces – these are also good for homes with young children due to the absence of sharp corners. Meanwhile, glass coffee tables can help to give the illusion of more space. Square or rectangular designs are ideal for larger rooms and have plenty of surface space.
Wood is the most common material for coffee tables (including oak and MDF), with marble also being a popular choice for modern homes. If you're looking for something unique, you will also find rattan coffee tables on the market, as well as classic black, white and grey designs.
'It’s all about space,' says Simon Glanville, managing director at A Place For Everything. 'If you have plenty of room, opt for a chunky wooden coffee table with drawers then that can be a focal point for a room. If space is at a premium, then you need something that will work for you – a small footprint and plenty of added-value storage space. Think about your style too – that will determine whether you opt for a gorgeous traditional mahogany coffee table or a funky painted metal table to add a splash of colour to the living room.'
Tracey Hague, director of Where Saints Go, advises: 'To style a coffee table, start with a tray or a few books to create a base. Add decorative objects like candles, vases, or sculptures to add interest and texture. Then, consider adding a natural element like plants or flowers to bring life to the space.
'Finally, don't forget about practical items like coasters or a small tray for remotes. Remember to keep the styling balanced and avoid overcrowding the space.'
Keep reading to see our favourite coffee tables for 2024 (and they're all under £250)...
Crafted from powder coated steel and oak veneer wood, this on-trend coffee table will pull the look of your living room together. It has smart black legs and a tray-like table top to place your prized possessions on.
This round petite coffee table features a solid oak base and a tempered glass top, making it a brilliant addition to any contemporary home. We love the modern, understated design.
This Scandi-inspired coffee table has a soft silhouette, rounded corners and understated finish, making it a versatile option that'll suit a variety of living rooms.
This metal coffee table has ample room for storage thanks to its combination of shelves and large surface space. Plus, the sturdy metal from which it's made makes it a durable choice.
This luxurious coffee table has a removable gold tray top, a black frame and a wire basket. So not only is it a luxe coffee table, but it's also useful for storing blankets or throws.
Introduce understated style to your home with this contemporary black coffee table from La Redoute. Featuring a nifty storage compartment, it will jazz up every living room. With an angled edge top, it has been made with mango wood using traditional methods.
Combining style with function, this swoon-worthy marble coffee table from M&S has a rectangular shape, steel black legs and enough space on top for a vase or two.
Featuring solid wood legs and a stylish oval shape, this sleek coffee table fits into just about any interior style.
This compact coffee table conceals a secret – you can remove the top to reveal a roomy storage space underneath. What more could you want?
This wooden coffee table is perfect for those who love the country. Available in classic wood or light grey, it's a practical and stylish centrepiece for any living room.
This long coffee table has generous dimensions and is made to last, thanks to a lacquer that protects the hardwearing oak and preserves the natural wood feel.
Stuck on space? Consider purchasing this small two-tiered metal coffee table from Dunelm.
A white coffee table is a great addition to any space, especially for more minimalist homes. This classic style works brilliantly in a lounge where there's lots of space. With a sturdy tabletop, it has additional space underneath for books and magazines.
Bring the outdoors in with Habitat's beautiful rattan round coffee table. Handwoven in India, it features a striking mix of materials and textures.
Boasting an attractive Japandi style, this robust coffee table is perfect for any living room. Concealed drawers hide ample storage.
Lisa Joyner is the Senior Digital Writer at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
Rosie Stagg is the Marketplace Content Editor for House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, covering everything from self-care advice to craft trends and interior style guides. With many years working in e-commerce and specialising in marketplaces, Rosie also manages content on the Country Living Marketplace. Rosie studied at the University of Leeds where she completed a BA in English & History of Art.
The best quiet fans for a peaceful sleep
Eufy Omni S1 Pro robot vac: an editor's review
When is the next Amazon Prime Day 2024?
Get up to 50% off in Joseph Joseph's summer sale
15 laundry baskets to keep rooms tidy
13 trayscaping ideas to update your coffee table
Discover Habitat's Miami Beach collection
11 stylish console tables to buy now
Amazon Prime Day: shop the best garden deals
The Our Place Wonder Oven launches in the UK
We tried the 7-in-1 Ninja Woodfire outdoor grill
House Beautiful, Part of the Hearst UK Fashion & Beauty Network
We earn a commission for products purchased through some links in this article.
Glass Furniture ©2024 Hearst UK is the trading name of the National Magazine Company Ltd, 30 Panton Street, Leicester Square, London, SW1Y 4AJ. Registered in England. All Rights Reserved.