Coffee tables and reclining sofas are two must-haves in any living room, but figuring out how to place them together can be tricky. You must want to create a functional and stylish space that allows you to relax and entertain guests without compromising comfort.
However, this is only possible when you know how to place a coffee table with a reclining sofa. Even if you don’t, I have a way you can get all the tips and tricks and make a perfect combo.
What is that way? Well, this detailed guide! Be with me to learn how to create a practical living room layout that accommodates your coffee table and reclining sofa. Whether you’re a seasoned decorator or a first-time homeowner, you will surely find useful insights.
Key Takeaways
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]
- Consider the room size when placing a coffee table with a reclining sofa; smaller rooms may require a smaller table, while larger rooms can accommodate a larger one.
- Maintain an appropriate distance of 18-20 inches between the sofa and the coffee table for comfort and accessibility.
- Ensure the coffee table’s height matches the sofa’s seat cushions or is 1-2 inches lower, promoting ease of use.
- Think about the table’s function (e.g., entertaining or storage) and select an appropriate shape (e.g., rectangular, square, circular) while placing it in the center of the space.[/su_note]
What Exactly Is A Reclining Sofa?
A reclining sofa or couch is a special type of couch that can lean back or recline at different angles. However, unlike a recliner chair, a reclining couch has the capacity to withstand multiple people at the same time.
Therefore, nowadays, we can see that reclining sofas are a popular choice for living rooms and home theaters as you or any other user can easily stretch out and relax while watching TV or reading a book.
Can You Put A Coffee Table With A Reclining Sofa?
Yes, you can place a coffee table with a reclining sofa. In fact, many American homeowners do this as a practical arrangement in their living rooms. A coffee table with a reclining sofa becomes a perfect spot to place books, snacks, drinks, and other items while you relax on the sofa.
How To Place A Coffee Table With A Reclining Sofa?
There is no fixed way to place a coffee table or sofa table with a reclining sofa. Everybody has their own imagination to do so, and some tips can help you choose and place a coffee table beautifully with a reclining sofa.
The following are those tips and tricks you can get help from.
Room Size Must Complement The Sofa.
When we talk about placing a coffee table with a polyfill, down fill, or other reclining sofa, the size of the room matters a lot. If you have a small room, a large coffee table may not suit you well, and you may have to go for a smaller one.
Similarly, a larger room allows you to place a large-sized coffee table with your reclining sofa. You should measure the dimensions of your living room so you can get a clear idea of how much space you have to work with.
Keep Appropriate Distance Sofa And The Coffee Table.
When you place a coffee table with your reclining couch, you must ensure that it is close enough to the sofa to easily reach it but not so close that it feels cramped.
I suggest you have at least 18-20 inches of space between the sofa and the coffee table. This will allow you to comfortably sit on the sofa and reach for items on the table without feeling cramped or stretching too far.
The Right Sofa Height Makes A Lot Of Difference.
While discussing the tips for placing a coffee table with a reclining sofa, height plays a crucial role. Well, your coffee table should be around the same height as your sofa’s seat cushions. This will make it easy to reach over and grab something from the table without bending over or stretching too far.
If your coffee table is too low, it may be difficult for you to reach items on the table, and if it is too high, it may feel awkward to use. Even if you want, a 1-2 inches height difference is acceptable. Hence, choosing the right height is always significant for determining how to decorate a reclining sofa.
Don’t Forget To Think About The Function.
Placing a coffee table with a reclining table requires thinking about the function of the table. If you plan on using it for entertaining, you may want to choose a larger table with plenty of surface area for drinks and snacks.
If you are mostly using it for storage, you may want to choose a coffee table with drawers or shelves. Alternatively, if you don’t have a lot of storage space in your living room, you may want to go for a coffee table with an open design.
The Shape Of The Coffee Table Also Matters.
There are many different designs for coffee tables, such as rectangles, squares, and circular. When we talk about placing a coffee table with a reclining sofa, the shape of the table also matters.
A rectangular or square table may work well with a longer sofa, while a circular table may better fit a smaller, more compact sofa. Overall, to find the best shape for your coffee table, you need to consider the layout of the furniture as well as the shape of your room.
Always Place The Coffee Table In The Centre.
I suggest you place your coffee table in a central location instead of in a corner or closer to the wall. This way, your coffee table will be within reach of the sofa and other seating areas.
This will also make it convenient to use for everyone. Placing the table in a corner will make it difficult to use and make it disconnected from the rest of the space.
[su_note note_color=”#f8d3d2″]NOTE: Sometimes, you can’t simply keep the sofa in one fixed place since it keeps sliding whenever you sit on it. See how to keep the reclining sofa away from the wall for the solution.[/su_note]
Why Place A Coffee Table In Front Of A Recliner?
Adding a coffee table in front of your recliner isn’t just an expense; it’s a smart move that enhances your living space. Other than completing your recliner sofa, the following are the reasons to have a coffee table in your living room.
- Completes your living room’s overall look.
- Utilizes and fills up the empty space fashionably.
- Provides a comfortable, cozy place to rest your feet.
- Provides a stable spot for drinks.
- Convenient storage for items like magazines and remotes.
In short, having a coffee table in front of your recliner has only benefits; there is no reason for not opting for this combo if you do everything right. See all the tips I have discussed in this guide to choose a suitable coffee table.
Different Styles Of Coffee Tables To Place With A Recliner
In the world of coffee tables, you can find old, classic styles to more modern looks where each has its unique points. However, I prioritize high-quality pieces that last longer plus offer the best value for the money. That said, these are the most common styles for coffee tables.
- Traditional Coffee Table — These are classic and timeless. They’re usually made of carved wood and have an oval or rectangular shape on top.
- Contemporary Coffee Table — These are modern and fresh, reflecting current design trends. They often have innovative designs, like detachable ottomans.
- Modern Coffee Table — This style comes from the 20th century and focuses on simplicity and minimalistic lines, blending functionality with aesthetics.
- Rustic Coffee Table — Rustic tables have a countryside, old-world charm. They are typically made of wood and may have subtle patterns or even brass fittings for a touch of grandeur.
- Vintage Coffee Table — Vintage tables aim to capture unique styles from the past. They often use reused materials, giving them a quirky, one-of-a-kind appearance.
- Novelty Coffee Table — These tables come in various shapes and are known for their unique features, which set them apart from typical tables.
- Stackable Coffee Table — These tables are practical and stylish, offering multiple tables in one. They can be stacked to free space when not in use.
- Foldable Coffee Table — Foldable tables are convenient for saving space. They are lightweight and can be effortlessly laid aside when not needed.
- Coastal Coffee Table — These tables create a beachy, natural vibe with light-toned wood and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Industrial Coffee Table — Industrial-style tables use materials like steel and wood in a sturdy, rough-hewn design. They work well in loft-style spaces or as a bold contrast in more traditional settings.
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]NOTE: Each of the following types of coffee tables has its own unique charm and can complement different living room aesthetics and needs. I suggest you see the guide below to decide what will go perfectly for your recliner and the space you want to place in.[/su_note]
How To Choose Right Coffee Table For Your Reclining Sofa?
Pick The Right Size.
Make sure your coffee table isn’t too small or too big compared to your sofa. Instead, it should be proportional to your reclining sofa’s size. But how do I find that size? Well, a table about two-thirds the length of your sofa looks just right.
Consider The Height.
Think about the height. As I told you earlier, your coffee table should be level with or a bit lower than your sofa’s seat, about 1-2 inches. This makes it easy to grab things from the table while you’re relaxing on the sofa.
Match The Material.
Match the material of your coffee table with your reclining sofa. If you have a leather sofa, go for wood or metal. A glass or acrylic table can be a good match for a fabric sofa.
[su_note note_color=”#fff3ad”]NOTE: Coffee tables are available in a wide range of materials, such as wood, glass, stoneware, metal, and fabric. You can go for any to create a customized space you like.[/su_note]
Look At The Shape.
The shape of your table matters too. Round or oval tables are safer for small spaces and homes with kids because they don’t have sharp edges. Square or rectangular tables work well in bigger spaces and offer more space for your stuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a Coffee Table Be Higher Or Lower Than A Sofa?
When you buy a coffee table for a sofa, the height of the table should be about the same as the seat cushions of your sofa, or a 1-2 difference is also acceptable. This way, you can easily reach items on the table. Moreover, it also adds a cohesive look to the living room.
How To Decorate With A Reclining Couch?
Decorating with a reclining couch can be a stylish way to add relaxation and comfort to your living room. While decorating, you need to have some important things in mind.
You should consider the style of the couch—choose complementary colors and add texture and personal touches through accessories and lighting.
How Much Space Do You Need Between A Recliner And A Coffee Table?
When placing a coffee table with a recliner, the distance between the table and the recliner matters a lot. As I said above, the table should be close enough to the recliner so that it is easily reachable for you.
If I have to give you a number, I would suggest you have at least 18 inches of space between your table and the recliner. This makes it easy for you to pick things up from the table while sitting on the recliner.
What Size Coffee Table For A Reclining Sofa?
If you want to know the right size for a coffee table, it highly depends on the size of the room, the size of the sofa, and the table’s function. If you have a larger room, it is desirable to use a large-sized table and vice versa.
In the same way, if you have a large sofa, then a large-sized coffee table will suit it, and vice versa. Generally, a coffee table about the same width as the sofa and about the same height as the seat cushions will work well with a reclining sofa.
