Are you searching for a new coffee table and considering a rectangular shape? Rectangular coffee tables offer an ideal surface for showcasing decorative items, books, and other smaller items while providing hidden storage space for items such as remotes, chargers, board games, and extra throw blankets. Whether your living room style is modern, mid-century, rustic, or bohemian, a rectangular coffee table can match your decor. Continue reading for stylish and multifunctional rectangle coffee table ideas presented by DeCasa Collections to inspire your next purchase. With the right rectangle coffee table, you can have a valuable and subtle storage solution and a stunning centerpiece for your living room.
Choosing the Right Size Rectangle Coffee Table
The size of your rectangle coffee table is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Get it right, and it will anchor your living room layout perfectly. Choose wrong, and you’ll end up with a table that’s too small, leaving no surface space, or too big, crowding the room.
Space
A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 18 inches between the edge of your sofa and the coffee table. This provides enough clearance for walking around and reaching drinks. A table around 36 to 42 inches wide is ideal for a small living room. This gives some surface area without overpowering the space. You can go up to 54 inches wide in a large or even bigger room. But be careful not to choose a table so large it becomes an obstacle course!
Length
In terms of length, a table about half as long as your sofa is usually a good proportion. So, if you have an 8-foot sofa, aim for around a 4-foot table. For a sectional, measure the side length where you’ll place the table. And remember, it’s easier to make a table look more prominent by placing it on a rug than to make an oversized table work in a small space.
Height
Don’t forget height – look for a coffee table with a surface around 16 to 18 inches high. This allows for easy access while seated and displays decorative items at eye level. Some tables offer open storage space underneath, giving you extra room for baskets, books, or other items you want to keep close at hand but out of sight.
With the right size coffee table for your space, you’ll have a stylish and functional focal point that brings your living room together. Take the time to choose well, and you’ll enjoy it for years!
Rectangle Coffee Table Materials: Wood, Metal, Glass
When choosing a rectangle coffee table, the material is one of your most important decisions. The material determines the table’s durability and style and how much storage and display space it provides.
Wood
Wood is a popular, natural choice for rectangle coffee tables. They offer a warm, organic feel that fits well in most home decor. Wooden options also typically provide at least one shelf underneath for storage and display. Some even have multiple shelves at varying heights, giving you plenty of space to store books, baskets, and decor. The downside is that wood requires more maintenance to prevent scratches, stains, and water damage.
Metal
Metal rectangular coffee tables, like steel or aluminum, have an industrial vibe that pairs well with contemporary spaces. They’re durable but also lightweight, so they’re easy to move and rearrange. However, most metal tables don’t offer any storage space underneath since they only have a metal frame. If storage is a priority, look for a metal table with a wood or glass top that provides shelf space below.
Glass
A glass rectangle coffee table is an excellent option to create an open, airy feel in your living room. The glass makes the space below feel more open while providing a sound surface on top. Glass tables also showcase your rug, flooring, and any decor you place underneath. Remember that glass requires frequent cleaning to prevent smudges and scratches and typically offers little to no storage space.
With the right material and style, a rectangle coffee table can be a stylish centerpiece in your living room, providing practical storage and display space. Choose the material that suits your needs, decor, and design preferences to make the most of your rectangle coffee table.
Clever Rectangle Coffee Table Storage Solutions
Rectangle coffee tables offer stylish storage solutions for your living room. Their long, open shape is perfect for displaying decorations, books, and other knickknacks. But they also provide hidden storage space underneath for more oversized items. Here are some clever ways to utilize your rectangle coffee table storage.
Baskets
Baskets are an easy way to keep smaller items corralled under your coffee table yet still within easy reach. Label each basket for magazines, remotes, chargers, or pet toys to keep everything organized. Look for baskets that complement your decor, like rattan, metal, or fabric. For a rustic look, try wooden crates.
Drawers
If your rectangle coffee table has drawers, use them to stow away items you want to keep out of sight. Designate a drawer for things like notebooks, pens, scissors, tape, or other office supplies. Or use a drawer to hide clutter like stray Legos, puzzle pieces, or other little toys when the company comes over.
Cabinets
Choose a rectangle coffee table with cabinets and closing doors for ultimate hidden storage. Cabinets are ideal for larger items like board games, craft supplies, linens, or electronics. Label the cabinets to make items easy to find. For a simple DIY, add casters to cabinets so you can easily roll them out from under the coffee table.
Trays
Use decorative trays to contain smaller items on top of your coffee table and make them easier to move. Have a tray for the TV remote, coasters, candles, or other decorative objects. When you need to use the table’s surface, simply slide the trays under the table to keep items corralled yet out of the way. Trays with handles or edges make them easier to grasp and pull out.
Ottomans
Place one or two ottomans under your rectangle coffee table for hidden storage. Ottomans come in a variety of styles to match your decor. Look for ottomans that open up for storage inside. You can stash extra linens, shoes, books, or anything else. The ottomans will keep items out of sight but within easy access when you lift the coffee tabletop.
With simple storage solutions, your rectangle coffee table can gain valuable function to match its fashionable form. Keeping items organized and controlling clutter will make your living room a relaxing, inviting space.
Final Thoughts
As we wrap up our guide on stylish storage and display solutions using rectangular coffee tables, these versatile pieces of furniture can be used for multiple purposes, such as storing clutter, showcasing decorative items, and holding snacks and drinks. With various styles, sizes, and materials, finding a coffee table that suits your space and personal taste should be easy. So, next time you’re in the market for living room furniture, consider the coffee table, as it could be the centerpiece that ties the whole room together.