Should a Coffee Table be Higher or Lower than a Sofa Seat?

Interior design is all about making your living space feel like home, a place that reflects your unique style and comfort. While there are traditional guidelines, breaking conventions often leads to the most stunning designs.

One such question that frequently arises in design circles is whether a coffee table can be higher than the couch. Though coffee tables have traditionally been lower, at Lifestyle Warehouse, we believe that exploring different styles can lead to exciting and personalised spaces.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the pros and cons of having a higher coffee table than your couch. We’ll also explore how it can add both functionality and style to your living room.

If you’re curious about whether this trend might be for you, or if you’re looking to discover new coffee table options, take a look at our curated collection of coffee tables to see what sparks your creativity.


Why Consider a Higher Coffee Table?

Traditionally, coffee tables have been designed lower than the couch, mainly for practical reasons. They provide easy access to drinks, snacks, or decorative items while you're comfortably seated.

But who says you need to stick to convention? Breaking away from traditional norms by opting for a higher coffee table can add a unique flair to your living room.

Benefits of a Higher Coffee Table:

  • Creative Aesthetic: A higher coffee table stands out, making it a focal point in the room. If you love eclectic, modern, or avant-garde interiors, a taller coffee table could be the standout piece your living room needs.

  • Enhanced Visual Depth: Raising the height of your coffee table adds layers and dimensions to your living room, creating a more dynamic space. A taller table can act as a visual anchor, drawing attention and interest.

  • Practicality and Functionality: Higher coffee tables can offer added convenience, especially when it comes to accessibility. No more leaning over too far to grab your remote or coffee cup—this type of table is designed with ease in mind.

If you're intrigued by this concept but not sure where to start, Lifestyle Warehouse has an impressive selection of coffee tables with storage that offer both form and function.

💡 Key takeaway: A higher coffee table is an unconventional yet creative choice that can add a modern edge to your living space while offering practical benefits like easier reach and added visual depth.


Benefits of a Higher Coffee Table

Before you make the decision to incorporate a higher coffee table into your living room, it’s essential to understand its various benefits.

From unique aesthetics to practical features, a taller coffee table can completely change how your space looks and functions.

Unique Aesthetics

A higher coffee table immediately makes a bold style statement. It challenges traditional design norms and can become the highlight of your living room.

  • Focal Point Creation: A higher table naturally draws the eye, making it a great centerpiece for your seating arrangement.
  • Complementing Modern and Eclectic Styles: This type of coffee table works particularly well in modern or eclectic design schemes, where bold choices are celebrated.

Visual Interest

By raising your coffee table, you introduce more height variations in your furniture, creating a more visually layered space.

  • Adding Layers: Higher tables, when paired with lower couches, create a layering effect that adds depth to the room.
  • Showcasing Design Features: Whether your coffee table is made of metal, wood, or glass, having it at a higher level draws attention to its design features.

If you’re interested in enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your living room, browse through Lifestyle Warehouse’s selection of wooden coffee tables for timeless options that bring both beauty and function to your home.

Functional Benefits

A higher coffee table isn’t just about looks. It can also serve as a practical addition to your living room.

  • Convenience: A higher coffee table brings your essentials—books, drinks, remotes—closer to your seating level, eliminating the need to bend over frequently.
  • Storage Options: Many higher tables come with storage options, adding an extra layer of functionality. Take a look at these coffee tables with storage for a smart, stylish solution.
  • Versatility for Multiple Uses: From entertaining guests to working or crafting, a higher coffee table can easily accommodate a variety of activities.

💡 Key takeaway: Opting for a higher coffee table offers not only aesthetic appeal but also practical benefits, making it a versatile choice for both style-conscious and function-driven individuals.


Finding the Right Balance

While a higher coffee table can elevate the look and functionality of your living room, balance is crucial.

It's essential to ensure that the table's dimensions work with your couch and the overall room design to avoid disrupting the flow of your space.

Proportion Matters

To achieve the perfect look, your coffee table should complement your couch and room dimensions.

  • Room Size Considerations: A higher coffee table in a small room can dominate the space, making it feel cramped. Instead, explore nesting tables to keep things versatile and proportionate.
  • Matching the Couch Height: While the table can be higher than the couch, the difference shouldn't be extreme. A subtle height increase can create a more comfortable and balanced feel.

Comfort Considerations

No matter how beautiful your coffee table is, comfort should always be a priority.

  • Ease of Movement: Ensure the table doesn’t obstruct walking paths or block sightlines in your living room.
  • Functional Comfort: The height should still allow for comfortable lounging or entertaining without making the space feel awkward.

Style Harmony

Your higher coffee table should also match the overall design theme of your living room.

  • Complementary Design: A higher coffee table can blend seamlessly into various styles—whether your aesthetic is contemporary or traditional. Browse side tables or even small side tables to add more elements that enhance balance.
  • Material Choices: Consider how the table’s material fits with the rest of your decor. For instance, a glass coffee table set works beautifully in minimalist or glam spaces.

💡 Key takeaway: Balance is key when choosing a higher coffee table—ensure it complements the room’s size, style, and your comfort to create a cohesive and functional space.


Exploring Your Coffee Table Options

At Lifestyle Warehouse, we celebrate creativity and individuality in design. Our goal is to offer a range of coffee tables that not only suit different tastes but also provide practical benefits. If the idea of a higher coffee table appeals to you, you’ll find plenty of options that suit your style and functional needs in our extensive collection.

What You’ll Find at Lifestyle Warehouse:

  • Bold and Stylish Pieces: Whether you’re looking for something sleek and modern or a more rustic wooden option, our collection has it all.

  • Versatile Choices: From nesting tables for smaller spaces to elaborate glass coffee tables for a modern touch, you can find the perfect fit for your home.

  • Expert Assistance: Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you in choosing the right coffee table that complements your space while catering to your personal preferences.

💡 Key takeaway: At Lifestyle Warehouse, you’ll find a wide variety of coffee tables designed to help you create a living room that’s uniquely yours, whether you're seeking bold statements or practical functionality.


Conclusion

Choosing a higher coffee table over a traditional lower one is a bold design move that can significantly elevate your living room’s style and function.

With careful consideration of proportion, comfort, and style harmony, a higher table can transform your space into a unique and visually stunning area.

At Lifestyle Warehouse, we offer an extensive range of coffee tables, including wooden coffee tables, glass coffee tables, and more to help you achieve your dream design.