Coffee Table Alternatives

Some will lead you to believe that a coffee table plays a necessary part in the grand scheme of interior design. You might need a central location to place drinks, kick up your feet, and anchor the room, but that doesn't necessarily mean it has to be a coffee table. Small living spaces mean that you have to be more adventurous and creative about how you furnish, but the solution may not need to be a traditional coffee table. Whether you have a small living room or looking for something unique that ties into your eclectic style, this guide to coffee table alternatives will provide some inspiration.

Types of Coffee Table Alternatives

Decorating a living room can be both fun and intimidating. Not only do you need to find a functional seating solution and décors that will give the room some personality, but the key to success boils down to one missing piece. A coffee table can punctuate your living space, but it isn't the only option you have. Here are a few alternatives to a coffee table.

Blanket Chest: Are you limited on closet space? A blanket chest offers a clever storage solution that can also be quite stylish. Like an ottoman or storage bench, a blanket chest can be used as an extra surface or seating, providing a twofold solution that can simultaneously hide throw blankets, accent pillows, toys, board games, favorite reading materials, and other incidentals that don't need to be on display all the time. To make the blanket chest even more versatile when you have guests, you can place a tray in the center to serve as a stable surface for food and drinks.

Nesting Tables: Two or more tables are better than one! A nest of tables is ideal for any small space and the waterfall effect will add a touch of visual interest to your living room. However, nesting tables can also be separated into individual surfaces for entertaining purposes or moved when you require additional space. Nesting tables can also be arranged in a variety of eye-catching configurations. This multilayered solution can also replace the need for end or side tables.

Side Tables: In lieu of a large coffee table, a pair of matching side tables can fit together to create a utilitarian solution that suits any space. Side tables are lightweight and easy to move, but they can also be pulled apart and used separately whenever necessary. You can add even more storage space to your living room by choosing side tables that have lower shelves, which are perfect for storing books, magazines, and electronics when they are not in use.

Trunk: Do you have an old trunk that isn't being put to good use? A vintage trunk offers a touch of charm as well as a topic of conversation in a way that new and modern pieces cannot. Old pieces can be repurposed in a variety of ways, but an antique trunk provides a solid surface for placing drinks and plates as well as storage space for all those incidentals you can stow away. Some trunks have curved tops, so you may not be able to place things down on them. You can find old trunks at estate sales, flea markets, and garage sales or you can opt for an antique reproduction.

Tufted Ottoman: Much like a blanket chest, a tufted ottoman provides a twofold solution for storing accent pillows and throw blankets as well as a place for you to kick your feet up after a long day. Ottomans have become a popular choice for decorating with a twist, especially when you are limited on space. You can place a large tray in the middle of an ottoman to provide a solid surface for storing books, magazines, remote controls, and other essentials.

There are so many coffee table alternatives to choose from, and we carry many of the items listed above right here at Laurel Crown. With a team of experienced and talented craftsmen, we are able to carve, sand, and finish all antique reproductions by hand with the utmost quality. We also only use the finest woods and finishes available, to ensure that every handcrafted item exceeds all expectations. If you have any questions about this article or would like to learn more about our custom furniture services, please feel free to contact us for additional information.