Should Coffee Table Be Lower Than Sofa

Should a Coffee Table Be Lower Than a Sofa?

When it comes to creating a comfortable and stylish living room, every element must be carefully considered, including the placement and height of your coffee table. Finding the right coffee table height in relation to your sofa is key to ensuring both functionality and visual harmony.

Advantages of a Lower Coffee Table

Improved visibility: A coffee table lower than the sofa allows for easier viewing of the TV or engaging in conversations across the room.
Increased comfort: Reaching for items on the coffee table becomes more accessible, especially while lounging on the sofa.
Cozier atmosphere: A lower coffee table creates a more intimate and cozy setting for gatherings or relaxing evenings.

Disadvantages of a Lower Coffee Table

Less table surface: A lower table offers less surface area for displaying decor or placing objects, which may be a hindrance if you have limited storage space.
Possible knee strain: If the coffee table is too low, it can cause knee strain when resting your feet on the table while sitting on the sofa.
Aesthetic imbalance: A coffee table significantly lower than the sofa can disrupt the visual balance and harmony of the room.

General Rule of Thumb

As a general rule, the top of the coffee table should be approximately 2-4 inches lower than the seat height of your sofa. This provides a comfortable and accessible height for using the table while maintaining a visually pleasing arrangement.

Factors to Consider

Sofa height: Measure the seat height of your sofa to determine the appropriate coffee table height.
Coffee table size: A larger coffee table may require a slightly lower height to avoid overwhelming the sofa.
Personal preference: Ultimately, the best coffee table height is what works best for your comfort and aesthetics.

Conclusion

Whether or not your coffee table should be lower than your sofa depends on various factors and personal preferences. By considering the advantages and disadvantages mentioned above, measuring the sofa height, and experimenting with different heights, you can find the perfect placement that creates a comfortable and visually pleasing living space.