For a cozy office, a coffee table can add warmth and a sense of comfort, making clients and colleagues feel more at home. In a serious office, it adds a touch of class and makes everything feel more official. Whether you’re aiming for a professional, cozy, or modern look, the right coffee table can tie the whole room together.
Table Of Contents
Choosing the Right Size
Finding the Ideal Shape
Styling with Accessories
Coordinating with Office Decor
Conclusion
Here’s a guide on how to choose and style a coffee table for your office.
Choosing the Right Size
The size of your coffee table should be proportional to the size of your office and the surrounding furniture. Before purchasing a coffee table, measure the area where you plan to place it. Take into account the distance between the coffee table and other furniture pieces. Ideally, there should be at least 18 inches of space between the coffee table and seating to allow easy movement and to prevent the area from feeling cramped
The coffee table should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa or seating area. This proportion ensures balance and accessibility, making it easy for everyone seated around it to reach the table comfortably. For example, if you have a 6-foot sofa, aim for a coffee table that is approximately 4 feet long. This rule of thumb helps maintain visual proportion and practicality, ensuring the table doesn’t overpower or get lost among other furniture pieces.
The height of the coffee table should be roughly the same as the seating height of your chairs or sofa. This typically ranges from 16 to 18 inches, which allows for comfortable reach when sitting. For a more casual setting, such as a lounge or a creative workspace, a lower table works well, promoting a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. On the other hand, a higher table suits a more formal environment, such as a corporate office or a meeting room, where a more upright posture is common.
Finding the Ideal Shape
The shape of your coffee table can significantly influence both the functionality and aesthetic of your office. The right shape ensures the table fits well within the space, complements other furniture, and enhances the room’s overall design. Some of the common shapes and their best environments to fit in:
- Rectangular: Ideal for longer rooms and provides ample surface area for books, decor, and work-related items. Rectangular coffee tables are versatile and practical, offering a classic look that suits various office styles. They are particularly effective in larger offices or conference rooms where a substantial surface area is needed for meetings, presentations, or collaborative work.
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Square: Great for larger seating areas with ample space, offering a balanced and symmetrical look. Their shape creates a focal point that anchors the seating arrangement, promoting a sense of equality and collaboration among team members. Additionally, square tables can be easily paired with sectional sofas or modular seating, enhancing the flexibility of your office layout.
Some of the best rectangular and square coffee tables in NZ:
Zion Coffee Table
Cubit Coffee Table
- Round: Perfect for smaller spaces or offices with curved furniture, as it promotes better flow and prevents sharp edges. Round coffee tables are excellent for creating a more open and airy feel, as their lack of corners allows for smoother movement around the table. This shape is particularly useful in compact offices or reception areas where space is limited and safety is a concern.
- Oval: Combines the benefits of rectangular and round tables, offering a spacious surface with a softer look. Oval coffee tables provide the same generous surface area as rectangular tables but with a more fluid and organic shape.
- Nesting: A set of smaller tables that can be stacked or spread out as needed. Nesting coffee tables are highly flexible and functional, perfect for dynamic office environments where space-saving solutions are appreciated. They are particularly useful in multi-functional spaces, such as breakout areas or small meeting rooms, where adaptability is key.
- Hexagonal: Offers a unique and modern look while providing multiple surfaces for use. Hexagonal coffee tables are great for adding a touch of geometric intrigue to your office decor. Their distinctive shape makes them a conversation starter and an eye-catching centerpiece
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Freeform or Organic Shapes: These tables often feature irregular or natural shapes, making a bold design statement. Freeform coffee tables are perfect for offices that embrace creativity and individuality. These tables work well in creative industries, such as design firms or advertising agencies, where a distinctive and inspiring environment is essential.
Good round tables in NZ:
Styling with Accessories
Once your coffee table is in place, the next step is to give it personality and functionality through selected accessories.
Begin by introducing some literary flair with a selection of books and magazines. Opt for publications that resonate with your industry or personal interests, stacking them to invite curiosity and conversation. Or enhance the organization and aesthetic appeal of your coffee table with decorative trays.
Whether it’s a framed photograph, a unique sculpture, or a cherished piece of art, these personal items add a layer of sentimentality that makes the space feel more welcoming and intimate. Choose pieces that connect with you on a personal level, reflecting your individuality and taste.
Lastly, prioritize practicality by including functional items that match your specific needs. If your coffee table doubles as a workspace, consider incorporating essentials like coasters to protect the surface, a stylish notebook for jotting down ideas, or a desk organizer to keep supplies neatly arranged.
Coordinating with Office Decor
When integrating your coffee table into the broader scheme of your office decor, it’s crucial to consider various elements to ensure a seamless blend.
Firstly, choose the color scheme. Whether you like neutrals like white and black, or you're into earthy wood tones, try to pick a coffee table that fits in with the colors you already have in your office. This helps everything feel like it belongs together.
Next, think about what your coffee table is made of. If you're going for a modern look, consider a table made of glass or metal. They're sleek and stylish. But if you're going for something more cozy and traditional, you might prefer wood or stone. They add warmth and texture to the room.
Lastly, maintain balance and harmony. Avoid cluttering its surface with unnecessary items, opting instead for accessories that complement its design and enhance its visual appeal. After all, your coffee table can serve as a focal point that ties together the various elements of your office decor. This helps create a calm and inviting space where you can get down to business.
Conclusion
Choosing and styling a coffee table for your office is a chance to enhance both the functionality and the aesthetic appeal of your workspace. By considering size, shape, accessories, coffee table style, and coordination with your office decor, you can create a space that is both inviting and professional.
