Modern Coffee Table Designs to Liven Up Your Living Room

The coffee table is the centerpiece of the modern living room. It’s where you enjoy a hot cup of coffee, play games with friends, and put down magazines and books. The perfect coffee table can completely transform your living room into a whole new space.

This post will share our top picks for modern coffee table designs to make your living room look chic and stylish. We’ve included designs for every aesthetic, from basic wooden tables to art deco pieces, so you can find the perfect coffee table for your space. But first, let’s take a closer look at the best coffee tables of 2024.

What To Consider When Choosing a Coffee Table

Size

The size of your living room determines the size of your coffee table, so it’s important to take accurate measurements before purchasing. First, measure the length and width of the space where you plan to place the coffee table and remember those measurements when browsing different designs.

Shape

Once you have taken measurements, it’s time to decide on a shape for your table. Coffee tables typically come in rectangular, square, or round shapes that can easily fit into most spaces. However, don’t be afraid to explore other options like triangles or hexagons for an unconventional look.

Durability

Besides size and shape, take into account the durability of the materials used. For example, opt for metal frames and glass tabletops rather than wooden bases and marble tops if you want something that can withstand heavy wear and tear.

Different Types of Coffee Tables

Knowing what design best suits your style is helpful when shopping for a new coffee table.

Traditional

Typically, conventional coffee tables are constructed with wooden cabinets, decorative carvings, and intricate embellishments. These tables often include golden accents and can introduce a sophisticated touch to any living room.

Contemporary

Contemporary coffee tables have streamlined, modern contours with minimalist designs that lack complex details or ornamentation. They come in various materials, such as glass, metal, or wood, and are suitable for contemporary homes looking for a modern edge.

Industrial

Industrial-style tables feature metal frames with distressed or unfinished surfaces and industrial finishes like rust or steel for an edgy vibe in any setting.

Rustic

Rustic coffee tables have a cozy charm with their weathered wood textures and natural colors that are perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in any room.

Non-Traditional Coffee Table Ideas

For those who prefer something more unique or unconventional, here are some non-traditional coffee table ideas that can spice up your home decor.

Ottomans

Ottomans with tray tops are a great substitute for traditional coffee tables. On top of functioning as a table, these pieces can also double as extra seating when needed and often offer additional storage space.

Benches

Wooden benches are the perfect option for those seeking a rustic design. Not only do they provide an adequate table surface, but they can be used as additional seating when necessary — perfect if you want multipurpose furniture.

Trunks

Vintage trunks can add tons of character to a room and offer extra storage space. You can decorate them with blankets or use them to store books or magazines.

Footstools

Footstools can also be used as occasional coffee tables as they provide ample surface area while taking up minimal space due to their low height. They are the best option if you have a smaller apartment and can double as extra seating during parties.

Where To Find Unique Designs

If you’re looking for something unique, consider these sources offering unique designs outside conventional box stores. The internet can be an excellent resource for finding interesting furniture designs from all parts of the world at reasonable prices; research local boutiques and global retailers for unique finds!

Local furniture stores also often stock one-of-a-kind pieces like antique trunks or repurposed items like vintage factory carts that make great conversation starters. Local thrift stores and flea markets often feature hidden gems that can be turned into beautiful statement pieces like mid-century-inspired tables or handcrafted wooden trunks – perfect if you want to add some vintage character to your living room.

20 Inspiring Modern Coffee Table Designs

Here is a list of 20 modern coffee table designs that will liven up any living room. Browse them before making your final selection!

1. Mid-Century Inspired: Mid-century-inspired designs provide an on-trend retro vibe with clean lines and minimal details that stand out amongst other pieces. Look for curved corners or tapered legs.
2. Mirrored: Mirrored surfaces create unique reflections in any setting. Go for elegant oval shapes or angular rectangular frames, depending on your style preferences.
3. Geometric: Geometric shapes like hexagons offer an unexpected touch – try pairing them with metallic frames and glass tabletops for extra drama.
4. Glass: Glass tabletops provide lightness while allowing the texture below them to show through. Combine them with metal frames for added strength and support.
5. Marble: Marble top tables always look luxurious no matter what type of base they are paired with – from black lacquered stands to rustic wooden trestles.
6. Industrial Carts: Use reclaimed industrial carts by pairing them with weathered woods such as old barrels or wooden pallets – perfect if you’re looking for something rustic yet chic!
7. Round: Round-shaped tables provide ample surface area while still fitting into small spaces, thanks to their low profile. Choose simpler designs, such as chrome bases topped by glass tabletops, if you want something timeless.
8. Hexagonal: Hexagonal-shaped designs offer uniqueness and versatility when decorating – try pairing them with dark woods such as mahogany or walnut finishes plated by baroque accents.
9. Modern Trunks: Give vintage trunks new life by using them as modern pieces. Choose brighter colors, such as sky blue or cherry red if you want them to stand out amongst other furniture pieces.
10. Sleek Bases: Sleek metal bases topped by glass tops are ideal if you want the focus on decorations rather than the actual piece itself. Look for brass accents and black lacquered finishings.
11. Handcrafted: Look out for artisanal pieces crafted from recovered materials, such as repurposed wood from old buildings/ships. This is a great option for adding instant character to any room!
12. Wooden: Simple wooden designs bring warmth into spaces. Try going for mid-century-inspired models such as tapered legs topped by rectangular tabletops.
13. Repurposed: Repurposed materials such as pipelines make great additions. Try finishing them off with built-in shelves made from plywood panels so they stand out even more.
14. Woven: Woven designs offer more structural stability than normal wood frame materials while keeping attention on their craftsmanship. Try pairing them with light-colored upholsteries or fabrics so they stand out even more.
15. Marble/Metal Combos: Take advantage of marble’s coolness and metal’s strength by combining both together. Look out for gold finishes with white marble tabletops paired with thick iron frames.
16. Forest Prints: Bring nature indoors by going for forest prints featured on coffee tables. Try contrasting warm wood tones against bold green hues so they stand out even more.
17. Bamboo: Bamboo stands out amongst other materials due to its naturally occurring patterns. Try combining different shapes, such as round tabletops paired against square legs, so they provide cohesion while still standing out individually.
18. Leather: Leather brings about sophistication within spaces while providing needed comfort. Try adding fringe detailing along leather pieces so they stand out even more within their respective settings.
19. Uniquely Shaped: Uniquely shaped pieces offer flexibility when placing decorations due to their natural curves. Opt for dark woods such as mahogany-stained finishes, which will contrast nicely against lighter-colored decorations.
20. Natural Stones: Natural stones provide a sense of mystery due to their raw textures. Pair this material against silver accents so they stand out amongst other items within the living room.

How To Style Your Coffee Table

Now that you have chosen your dream coffee table design, here is how you can style it accordingly. Choose decor items that coordinate well color-wise, such as matching throw pillows against darker-colored wooden tabletops. This allows the textures within each item to ‘pop’ even further when viewing from afar.

Arrange table objects according to varying heights, so items appear ‘organized’ from afar. Stack books on one side of the table and place a vase or plant on another part, allowing each item to receive proper visibility. Take advantage of items with the same color by clustering them together – for instance, place wine bottles with similar colored candle holders.

Conclusion

The coffee table is the centerpiece of any modern living room, and choosing a design that fits your aesthetic and budget is important. Consider the materials’ size, shape, and durability when shopping for a new coffee table.

There are several types of coffee tables, including traditional, contemporary, industrial, and rustic designs. Also, consider ottomans, benches, trunks, or footstools if you want something unique. And if you’re searching for the perfect modern coffee table design, look at our top 20 picks for inspiration. With the right coffee table, you’ll be able to create a stylish, modern living room that you’ll love for years to come.