Tips for Choosing Modern and Contemporary Coffee Tables and Furniture

Many people think coffee table furniture is a 20th century invention, but coffee tables are actually much older than that. The Ottoman Empire first started using coffee tables in their tea gardens, and the designs caught on in popularity in the early 1600s. Contemporary coffee tables incorporate a variety of designs and styles. It's important to select an approach that blends well with the rest of your home. Here are a few things to consider when selecting modern coffee tables or contemporary end tables for decorating.

Start with the other furniture in the living room. You want coffee table furniture to work well with what's already in the house. Remember, furniture pieces must play off each other, similar to a classical orchestra. This doesn't mean that your contemporary coffee tables must look exactly like everything else in the home. Juxtaposition and contrast are important, but styles need to play off one another.

For sizing, you should allow at least 15 inches between modern coffee tables and the sofa. If you're in doubt on the size of contemporary coffee tables, error on the size of large. It's better to have coffee table furniture that's a little too big than too small. Crowded coffee tables tend to look cluttered. The point is to have space. You should be able to breathe.

Most modern coffee tables these days are 16 inches high, though some are only as high as 11 inches. This is an important consideration. You don't want a coffee table that's too low, causing you to have to reach for your drink, the TV control or a magazine. At the same time, watch for the knees. Coffee table furniture can be dangerous in the middle of the night.

What are you going to put on your contemporary coffee tables? Flowers make a great decoration, especially in the springtime. Bowls or vases also make a nice touch. Some people like to spread out magazine. Others prefer books.

If people are likely to put your feet up on your coffee table furniture, choose modern coffee tables that wood or upholstered rather instead of expensive walnut vaneer or glass.

Another approach to modern coffee tables is to use recycled or reclaimed objects. Some people prefer contemporary coffee tables made from antique doors, wine bottles, oversized books, or drift wood. This is an environmental approach, as you can reclaim the items from landfills and make something functional out of them. When it comes to coffee table furniture, get creative. Find the right blend of style and function.

About the Author:

Demarcus Winthrop is the author of this article on Modern Coffee Tables. Find more information about Contemporary Tables here.