Meet&CoChoosing the right height of coffee table makes all the difference in terms of the perceived feel and function of your living room space.
When the table is at the right height, it’s easier – reaching out for your drink or placing decor or resting hands just seems natural, comfortable.
The height also has an effect on the balance of the room. A low table can look awkward and difficult to use, as well as one that is too high, which can break the flow and be out of proportion to your sofa.
The height aspect is major when it comes to pairing your coffee table with your seating. Your sofa’s seat height, how deep the cushions are, and how you sit all have an effect on which height is best for a table.
Getting this measurement right helps increase comfort, keep your space looking tidy, and adds harmony to your home.
In this guide, we will discuss the standard height of a coffee table, and also how to measure your room and choose the right height according to the type of sofa you have.
Also see: Standard Chair Height Guide
What Is the Standard Coffee Table Height?
Average Height Range
The common coffee table height will typically range between 16 and 18 inches (40 and 46 cm).
This is the most common range that is found in modern homes, as it fits in well with most sofa designs and keeps the table easy to use.
It also provides a harmonious appearance to the living room, which makes it look comfortable and planned.
Why This Height Works?
This height is the same height as the average sofa seat, which is anywhere from 17 to 19 inches.
When you have your coffee bar table close to the same height as your sofa seat (or slightly lower), you can get things like drinks, snacks, remotes, and laptops without having to lean too far forward.
It also keeps the visual balance within the room and helps keep everything in proportion.
Exceptions to the Standard
Differences in living room styles include lower or higher height tables. Modern low tables are common in minimalist or Japanese-inspired homes, where they are generally between 12 and 15 inches.
They make a relaxed, lounge-like feel. On the other hand, higher tables at around 19-21 inches work better with deep sofas or higher seating, as the surface will be brought closer to you.
These exceptions will still look great as long as they go with your sofa height and room style.
Also see: Standard Desk Height Guide
How to Choose the Right Coffee Table Height?
Measure your Sofa Seat Height
The first thing to do when deciding how tall your coffee table should be is to measure the height of the seat of your sofa. This provides you with the exact number that you need.
The general rule is a simple one: Your coffee table should be the same height as your sofa seat or 1-2 inches less.
This height keeps it all within easy reach and makes the table neither too tall nor too short.
For example, if you have a sofa seat that is 18 inches high, your table should be 16-18 inches.
This rule works well with most sofa styles, including the more modern styles such as the Mandis Leather Sectional Sofa.
Consider Sofa Style
Different types of sofas go best with different heights of tables.
- Low modern sofas: Opt for a lower table, approximately 14-16 inches, to maintain the balance of proportions.
- Standard sofas: Stick with the traditional 16-18 inch for easy use.
- Deep sectional sofas: These tend to sit much higher, so a table approximately 18-20 inches high works best to keep items within reach.
Room Size and Layout
- Your room size may also play a factor in the height of the table.
- Small rooms often look better with slightly lower tables as they open the room up and give an airy feel.
- Large rooms can have standard or even slightly taller tables without being too cramped.
Choosing the right height helps keep the visual balance, especially when combined with wood finishes such as the Mucci Wood Coffee Table product or other products in the Meet&Co coffee table collection.
Table Shape & Function
Think about the way you use your table.
- Rectangle tables are ideal for your everyday tasks, such as drinks, remotes, or your laptops.
- Square and round tables suit smaller rooms and promote a more casual seating plan.
If you use your coffee table for eating or working, stick with the standard 16-18-inch height for comfort.
Living Room Flow
A well-placed coffee table makes a space easy to move around. Keep between 16 and 18 inches between your sofa and your table.
This provides enough space to walk and also has the table close enough to reach comfortably.
Matching With Home Style
- Choose a height that suits your decor
- Modern & minimalist homes: Lower sloping swept table
- Rustic rooms / classic rooms: Wood tables – standard height
- Scandinavian or contemporary: Clean, balanced 16-17-inch options
- Matching in height and design helps make your coffee table seem like it belongs in your room
Also see: Most Comfortable Couch
Standard Coffee Table Height Per Table Type
Standard Wood Coffee Tables
Wood coffee tables are the most common style used within homes, and most of them are based on the standard height range of 16-18 inches.
This height works well with the common sofa designs and provides a natural balance in the living room.
Wood tables often have a solid and grounded appearance. Thus, keeping them within this range of heights is beneficial to ensure comfort and visual harmony.
Whether you’re going for a rustic oak finish or a smooth modern design, the standard height keeps the table easy to use for daily tasks such as drinks, decor, and remotes.
Contemporary Low Profile Coffee Tables
Many modern and minimalist homes favour low-profile coffee tables, which are typically in the range of 12-15 inches.
These work particularly well with low sofas and modern Japanese or Scandinavian-inspired designs.
The shorter height gives an easy, lounging look and makes the room look more spacious.
While they are stylish-looking, it is important to remember that low tables may be more difficult to reach if your sofa is higher than average.
Lift-Top Coffee Tables
Lift-top coffee tables are becoming preferred by people who work, eat, or study in the living room. There are two height measurements for these tables:
- Closed height (typically 16 inches to 18 inches)
- Height Lifted (20-27 inches, depending on the design)
The closed height should be of standard range to look right when not in use.
The raised height should allow you to sit comfortably on your lap when upright, making it perfect for laptops or dining.
Also see: Where Should I Look for the Best Sectional Sofa?
Glass Coffee Tables
Glass coffee tables tend to be traditionally manufactured on the 16-18 inch standard.
Their open and airy appearance helps to keep the room light, so having them at a standard height helps to maintain balance with the sofa.
Since glass sometimes looks thinner and lighter, sticking to the standard height range keeps the table from looking too delicate or therefore out of proportion.
Nested Coffee Tables
Sets of nested tables are available in combinations of two or three with different heights. And in choosing these, pay attention to the height of the largest table, because it will be most frequently used.
The tallest piece (ideally) should fall in the 16-18 inch range, as the smaller pieces are slightly down for layering, decor, and flexible use.
Standard Coffee Table Height by Sofa Type
Regular Sofas
Regular sofas tend to have a seat height of 17-19 inches, which tends to match the standard coffee table height of 16-18 inches.
This will ensure that the table is at a comfortable level for you to reach up to drink, set down your phone, or place decor on the table.
When the table is slightly below the sofa seat, it is a harmonious look and keeps the living room open. For traditional living rooms, this is the safest and most comfortable range.
Sectional Sofas
Sectional sofas often enclose the room, so the resulting seating area is larger and requires a table that is easy to access on all sides. For most sectionals, a height of 16-18 inches is good for the coffee table.
However, the shape of the table is also important – rectangular or square tables suit sectionals that are straight, but round or soft-edged tables suit curves.
If your sectional is deep or plush like the Mandis Leather Sectional Sofa, then selecting a table at about 17-19 inches will align with the height of the seat’s surface and make the table level with comfortable reach.
Deep Lounge Sofas
Deep or oversized lounge sofas are higher and favour relaxed seating positions. Because these sofas often have deeper cushions, the ideal height of the coffee table is a little higher, around 18-20 inches.
This extra height makes it easy to reach snacks, drinks, and decor without leaning too far forward. It also helps in keeping a room looking balanced, as a low table can look out of scale when positioned near a big and deep sofa.
Low Japanese/Minimalist Sofas
Low sofas based on Japanese, Zen, or minimalist styles typically tend to be much lower than standard furniture. For these designs, low-profile tables (12-15 inches) are more natural in look and feel.
A standard-height table would feel too high and would have a negative effect on the relaxed feeling and grounded appearance these setups try to promote.
Low tables also help to create a calm and open atmosphere, and help to make the room feel more open and spacious.
Styling Tips With the Right Coffee Table Height
Keep the Table Within Easy Reach
Your coffee table needs to be close enough that you can reach things without having to lean too far.
Keeping it the same height or only slightly lower than your sofa helps create a comfortable setup for use on a regular basis.
Apply Decorative Height Layers
Add pieces of decor in varying heights – so, for example, a small vase and a low tray, as well as a candle which is medium height, for balance.
Layering the different heights makes the table visually interesting without thinking it is cluttered.
Pair With Ottomans or for Side Tables
If you need additional space on this surface, add a small ottoman or side table in the space.
This helps the room to balance – especially if you have your main coffee table down or up a level.
Leave Space Balanced Around the Sofa
Do not put too close to the sofa and coffee table, leave about 16-18 inches. This gap permits easy movement while keeping the table close enough for daily tasks.
Match Materials to Your Room
Decide on materials that will work well with your space, be it wood, metal, or marble.
A wood design, such as the Mucci Wood Coffee Table, adds warmth and goes well with both modern and classic interiors. Metals look sleek and minimalist, while marble is more refined.
Also see: What Is an Ergonomic Chair?
FAQs
What is the standard height for a coffee table?
Most coffee tables are 16 to 18 inches tall, which works well with the 18-inch and the 20-inch standard sofa heights.
Should a coffee table be higher or lower than a sofa?
It should be the same height as the sofa seat or 1-2 inches lower to be comfortable.
What if my sofa is above average?
Select a table about 18-20 inches so it remains easy to get to.
Can a coffee table be too low?
Yes. If it’s too low, it is uncomfortable to reach and can appear out of proportion with the sofa.
What is the most suitable height for sectional sofas?
Most sectionals look good with tables from 16 to 18 inches, depending on the seat height.
What is the most favourable distance between the sofa and the table?
Leave 16-18 inches of space for easy movement.
Are low coffee tables still in fashion?
Yes – especially in the more modern, minimalist, and Japanese-inspired look of interiors.
Conclusion
Choosing the right Coffee Table Height is one of the simplest solutions to enhance your living room’s comfort, as well as style!
The standard height of 16-18 inches works for most setups, but the best choice always depends on the height of your sofa and also how you use your space.
When the table matches your seating, your room evokes a sense of balance and simplicity, and makes it easier to move around.
Whether you like to use modern low tables or old-fashioned woods, always make sure you measure before you purchase something to ensure a perfect fit.
If you’re looking into modern and stylish alternatives, the collection of coffee tables from Meet&Co Furniture is convenient and combines useful designs with a wide variety of house interiors.
