Modern coffee tables we’re adding to our interiors moodboard

While all design is subjective – you like what you like and your decisions should always be anchored in a sense of personal style – there are some practical considerations to keep in mind when it comes to choosing the right modern coffee table for your needs.

Firstly, are you adding to an existing living area, or are you starting from scratch? What do you need in terms of functionality, or are you less concerned with practicality and more focused on form? Regardless of your needs, one of the biggest factors in making the right decision is size.

As a general rule, a coffee table should be around two-thirds the length of your sofa. You want to make sure the size of the piece doesn’t overwhelm the room or take up too much floor area, which can quickly turn compact to cramped. You want to aim for ample space surrounding the coffee table, so its surface is within reaching distance from the sofa, but you have plenty of room to move around it. Additionally, a coffee table that is too small can make your living area feel visually off or imbalanced and can lack functionality.

The same principle applies to height. A coffee table works best when it’s either level with, or just shorter than the seat height of the sofa. While you might be appalled at the thought of resting your feet on a coffee table, this can actually be a good way to determine whether the height works with your sofa. But while this is a general rule, there are exceptions.

A taller coffee table that anchors a room in a purely decorative way will usually tend to be higher than one designed for functionality. Think tables adorned with perfect stacks of design books, or topped with collected curios, a vase (or two), and some statement paperweights. Modern coffee tables are made to stand out, and don’t need to follow the same rules when it comes to proportions. However, you still might want to consider a sofa with a higher back, or some statement armchairs, for visual continuity and balance.

The rule of three has long been a trick of the trade when it comes to styling an interior space. The rule comes from the idea that incorporating styling accessories grouped in an odd number actually creates a pleasing visual harmony. Additionally, play around with various heights, tones and textures and don’t be afraid to pack on the personality when it comes to your favourite accessories.

Whatever you want your tabletop to look like, don’t forget to think about how you’ll use it. Is it mostly going to be a surface for food and drinks? If so, then keep the styling minimal with easy to move pieces like coffee table books, a stack of gorgeous coasters and a vase, making it a simple switch when you need the space back.

If you’re using the tabletop to add a decorative element to the room, then feel free to layer as much as you want.