Rectangular vs. Round Coffee Tables

The shape of your coffee table might seem like a small detail, but it can completely change the vibe and functionality of your space. Are you trying to maximize space for friend group hangouts? Or maybe you want to create a cozy, intimate nook. The right coffee table shape can make all the difference.

So, which is best for you: round or rectangular? Spoiler alert: there’s no wrong choice, just the one that fits your needs best. In this guide, we'll talk all things rectangular and round coffee tables, including all the pros and cons of each. Let's find the perfect coffee table shape for your space so you can create a living room where everyone loves to hang out.

What to Love About Round Coffee Tables

Small-Space Friendly

If you’re living in a cute little apartment or a smaller home, a round coffee table is your new best friend. Their smaller footprint makes them perfect for living spaces where every square inch counts. Plus, their circular shape of these small coffee tables allows for easy movement throughout the room. That means no more awkwardly squeezing around tight spaces or running into sharp corners.

Easy Socializing

Round coffee tables are a social butterfly’s dream. Because of the circular shape, everyone can easily reach the table and see and interact with everyone in the group.

Having friends over for a game night or happy hour? A circle coffee table means no more awkwardly craning your neck to talk to someone on the other side. Plus, solid wood round coffee tables are perfect for those intense Uno battles at game night where everyone needs to reach the table. Victory has never been so sweet – or so accessible.

Flexible Seating Arrangements

Got a chic arrangement of chairs and loveseats? A small round coffee table can tie it all together. The round shape complements grouped seating arrangements, allowing you to configure your living room however you like. Whether you’re going for a cozy, intimate vibe or an open, airy feel, a round table fits right in.

What to Keep in Mind With Round Coffee Tables

Limited Storage

One thing to note about round tables is that they often don’t come with built-in storage. If you’re someone who loves to keep magazines, remotes, or knick-knacks neatly tucked away, this might be a bit of a drawback. However, if you prefer a minimalist look, this might be just what you need.

A round wood coffee table is perfect for setting down drinks, displaying decorative items, or kicking back with your feet up. But if storage is a must, you might need to look elsewhere or get creative with additional storage solutions.

Smaller Surface Area

Round coffee tables typically offer less surface area than their rectangular counterparts. If you like to use your coffee table for dining or working from home, you might find the smaller surface a bit limiting.

If your table’s main job is to look pretty and hold a few essentials, a small round coffee table can do the job beautifully. By understanding your needs, you can find the right fit for your lifestyle.

What to Love About Rectangular Coffee Tables

Fill Large or Open Rooms

If you have more space to work with in your living room, first of all, we’re jealous. Second of all, a rectangular coffee table can add a focal point to a large space you may not know what to do with.

They anchor even the largest of rooms, making them feel balanced and complete. If you have a sprawling sofa or a sectional that seems to go on forever, a rectangle table complements it in a way that feels effortlessly chic.

Provide Storage Solutions

Got a lot of stuff? Same. Rectangular tables often come with awesome built-in storage solutions.

With solutions such as bottom shelves, coffee tables with storage keep your living room essentials out of sight but easily accessible. Say goodbye to clutter and hello to easy cleanup – your future self will thank you.

More Surface Area

Love spreading out while working from home or having dinner in front of the TV? A rectangle wood coffee table offers plenty of room for all life’s activities. From laptops to plates to snacks for your reality show watch party, these tables provide the space you need for all your multitasking moments.

What to Keep in Mind With Rectangular Coffee Tables

May Overcrowd Smaller Spaces

Bigger isn’t always better, especially in small spaces. A rectangular table can dominate a small room and make it feel more cramped. If your living room is on the smaller side, you might find yourself constantly bumping into corners. Large rectangular tables can feel like a maze to navigate in small spaces, so they are better suited for larger rooms.

Less Adaptable for Group Settings

In social settings, rectangular tables might struggle to bring people together in the same way round tables do. You might find yourself getting up more often to see or reach items on the other end of the table, making it less ideal for group hangouts.

Making Your Decision: Rectangle or Round?

So, how do you choose between a round and a rectangular coffee table? It all comes down to your space and lifestyle.

If you’re living in a small apartment or love hosting intimate gatherings, a round coffee table might be the perfect fit. Its smaller footprint, easy flow, and conversation-friendly shape make it a great choice for cozy, social spaces.

If your living room is large and you need more storage space, consider choosing a rectangular coffee table. This type of coffee table can provide both a surface for drinks and snacks as well as additional storage options. Its ample surface area and storage options make it a versatile and practical choice for bigger spaces.

FAQ

What are the advantages of a round coffee table?

Round coffee tables offer several advantages. Their circular shape is ideal for small spaces, as they often have a smaller footprint and allow for easy movement around the room. Additionally, they facilitate easier conversation by allowing everyone to face each other, making social gatherings more enjoyable. They also seamlessly fit with grouped seating arrangements, providing flexibility in how you arrange your living room furniture.

Does a round coffee table make a room look bigger?

A round coffee table can make a small living room appear bigger because its circular shape allows for better flow of movement. It also occupies less visual space, creating a more open and spacious feel in the room.

Should I get a rectangle or round coffee table?

It depends on your space and preferences. If you have a smaller living area or prioritize easy movement and group interaction, a round coffee table might be the way to go. However, if you have a larger space and value extra surface area and storage options, a rectangular coffee table could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, choose the shape that best suits your lifestyle and complements your existing furniture.

At the end of the day, the shape of your coffee table is all about what works best for you and your space. Both round and rectangular coffee tables have their unique perks and potential drawbacks. You can't go wrong with choosing what fits your needs and style. Think about how you use your living room the most – whether it's for large gatherings or cozy evenings with a book – and let that guide your decision.

No matter what you choose, Plank+Beam has your back with a solid wood coffee table that will tie your living room together. From farmhouse coffee tables to mid-century modern coffee tables, we offer a variety of wooden coffee tables to suit any living room. Whether you're team round or team rectangle, we've got the perfect real wood coffee table for you. Find the best coffee table for your space today with Plank+Beam and create the living room you've always dreamed of.

Decided on the perfect fit for your space? Shop Plank+Beam coffee tables (both rectangular and round) and get free shipping when you spend over $200.

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One of the most common questions we hear in our showroom is, should coffee tables be round or square? With the help of our expert interior designers, we have created this guide which will track trends and help you answer this question on your own, so you can choose the right coffee table for your living room.

Coffee tables are known to be the centre of attention in any living room. But are you really sure about what kind of coffee tables will blend well with your living room? Wouldn't a round one look more interesting? But would it go with your square-ish sofas? And wouldn't a rectangular one be more spacious? We understand the confusion, so allow us to help you out. 

Things to Consider

The design of your coffee table can greatly influence the overall aesthetics and atmosphere of a room. It not only affects the visual appeal and texture of the space, but it can also alter the layout and dynamics of the room, influencing how you and your loved ones interact and utilise the space.

In a nutshell, the type of table you choose depends on the space available in your living room and the style of your home. Here's a list of other factors that you should consider:

• The shape of the room: if your room is square-ish with sharp edges, adding a round table will bring more softness and give it a more welcoming vibe. On the other hand, for more linear rooms, we recommend square or rectangular tables as they better complement such layouts. 
• The placement of your table: before you pick the shape, you need to be sure about where you will be placing it. For example, if it's supposed to be next to a wall, then you are forced to go for a square or rectangular table. 
• Consider your lifestyle: how many people will be using the room and in what way? If you have young kids who frequently run around the room, you would want to avoid a square table as it's more trippable. If you host guests frequently in your living room and use your coffee table to serve snacks, you would want a square table with more surface area and perhaps even a storage unit. So all such lifestyle factors will help you shortlist the right shape. 

Schedule online meeting with our Expert Design Team

Advantages and disadvantages of round and square coffee tables

Round coffee tables are the more traditional option, and they're great for smaller spaces. They also look nice when they have a glass top, but you should be careful not to put anything too heavy on them—they can crack if they're not made of high-quality materials.

Round Coffee Table 

• Since they have no corners, they don't have any edges that people can trip over. This makes them safer than square or rectangular tables, which have four corners.
• Visually, they're more interesting and unique as compared to the other, more commonly seen coffee table shapes. 
• They're also more versatile because you can easily move them around to create a different look.
• Most round coffee tables have a single leg, which means that they save more floor space as compared to square or rectangular ones. 
• If you have a curved sofa, round table which usually be the best choice. 

Round Coffee Table 

• Round coffee tables can be difficult to store away when not in use.
• Rounds are more expensive than squares, so if you're on a budget, this might not be for you.

Square Coffee Table Pros

Square coffee tables are a little more common, but they're also great for smaller spaces and sectional sofas. 

There are a lot of reasons why square coffee tables are more versatile and can be used in a variety of spaces.

• Flexibility - They're not just for the living room—they can be used in the dining room, too! You can even put them in your office if you want to give your space a little bit of personality.
• Easy to move around - They're small enough to fit in tight spaces or be placed against a wall. And when you need to rearrange furniture or move it out of the way, it won't take long at all!
• Great for kids' rooms - because they come in bright colours that kids love! Plus, they're sturdy enough so even if your kids bump into them or knock them over by accident, there won't be any damage done.
• The square shape is very visually appealing and clean.
• Square coffee tables are easy to match with other pieces in your living room.
• It doesn't take up as much space, so you can fit more furniture in a smaller area than with round tables.
• You can work with multiple square coffee tables in different heights to create a three-dimensional set-up. 
• It's easier to find matching side tables for square coffee tables as compared to round ones.
• Large, square coffee tables often make the room look bigger, as long as there's adequate distance between the table and the sofas. 

Square Coffee Table

• Some square coffee tables have very sharp edges, which can hurt if anyone hits their leg against the edge, especially young children. 

Our Recommendation

There are a few shapes that have become standard for coffee tables: square, rectangular, circular and oval. You can also find other unique designs like hexagons and diamonds, but these are less common.

Each shape has its own look and feel, so it's important to decide which shape works best for your space before making a purchase. Our recommendation is that you work with an interior designer to visually see the drawings of how different coffee table shapes look with your furniture. This will help you greatly in making the right choice. 

In the end, it's all about what makes you happy!

Pick the coffee table you think will look the best in your space

We know it can be overwhelming to choose between all of these beautiful tables. But don't worry: no matter which one you pick; we'll make sure it gets to you safely and on time!

FCI’s vision is to create spaces that are beautiful, timeless and bespoke. We believe in creating spaces that reflect your personality and style as an individual or family. Our design process is collaborative and hands-on, allowing us to understand your needs.

Summing up

Now that you've read the facts, you know the debate between round and square coffee tables isn't as cut-and-dried as many might think. On the one hand, there are valid arguments for each option.

Overall, the decision should be based on your home's design and how it will best coordinate with other furniture pieces in your living room (or wherever you choose to display it).

Get in touch and let's chat about your space and what might best fit. 

We have different shapes and sizes in our luxury coffee table range, so we’re sure we have something for everyone! If you're looking to get some design inspiration, check out our interior design project portfolio.

Choosing the perfect coffee table for your living room can significantly impact your space’s overall aesthetic and functionality. Should I get a round or square coffee table? Among the myriad options available, one of the fundamental questions that often arises is whether to go for a round or square coffee table. Each shape has its unique charm, and your choice can reflect your style and the vibe you want to create in your living room. In this blog, we’ll explore the merits of round and square coffee tables to help you decide what best suits your needs and preferences.

Should I get a round or square coffee table?

Round Coffee Table

Round coffee tables are a great choice if you want a versatile, space-efficient option. They work well in smaller rooms or seating areas with limited space because they lack sharp corners, allowing for smoother traffic flow. Round tables can also create a more welcoming and balanced aesthetic with a softer, less angular appearance.

Square Coffee Table

On the other hand, square coffee tables offer a more structured and organized look. They can be an excellent fit for larger seating areas or rooms with a more contemporary or formal design. Square tables provide ample surface area for decorative items or servings and can align neatly with other square or rectangular furniture pieces.

How to arrange a living room coffee table?

Arranging a living room coffee table involves centering it within the seating area, achieving balance and symmetry in decor placement, adding height variation for visual interest, and considering both functionality and personal touches. Ensure cohesiveness with the room’s overall style and avoid clutter for a clean look. Adapt the arrangement to your specific needs and preferences, whether for serving, display, or personalization.

How to design coffee table decor?

Designing coffee table decor involves creating an aesthetically pleasing arrangement that complements your living room. Focus on balance, symmetry, and varying heights to add visual interest. Consider the table’s function, incorporate personal touches, and ensure cohesiveness with your room’s style. Avoid clutter and adapt the design to your specific needs and preferences for serving, display, or personalization. Another prevention is height. Learn more about the average height of a coffee table, and adjust your coffee table with your room to look better. You can get more information about coffee table ideas for a small living room if you have a small room. 

Elegance of Round Coffee Tables

Flow and Harmony: Round coffee tables are known for creating a sense of flow and harmony. The absence of sharp corners makes them perfect for spaces where you want to encourage easy movement and a welcoming atmosphere. They naturally invite people to gather around and engage in conversation.

Versatile Styling: Round coffee tables come in various styles, from sleek and modern to rustic and vintage. Their versatility makes them adaptable to different design themes, ensuring they seamlessly blend with your existing decor.

Space Maximization: If your living room is smaller, a round coffee table can help maximize space by avoiding the blocky feeling that square tables sometimes create. They can fit comfortably in smaller seating arrangements without dominating the room.

How to choose the perfect fit?

The decision between a round and square coffee table should be based on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your living room. Should I get a round or square coffee table? Consider following all these factors. Assess the dimensions of your living room to determine which shape will fit best without overcrowding the space. Think about the overall style and theme you want to achieve in your living room. Round tables are more versatile, while square tables are often associated with a more structured and contemporary look. Consider the layout of your seating furniture. Round tables work well with circular seating arrangements, while square tables are suited for square or rectangular setups. Think about how you’ll use your coffee table. A square table may be the better choice if you need ample surface space for practical purposes. Curious for more information about the height of a round coffee table? Here, we cover the answer – how big a round coffee table should be. 

Should the coffee table be smaller than the TV stand?

The size relationship between a coffee table and a TV stand in a living room is a matter of personal preference and spatial considerations. While there are no strict rules, it’s often desirable to maintain proportionality between the two pieces of furniture and ensure they fit comfortably within the room’s layout. Additionally, the height of the TV stand should allow for comfortable viewing from seating positions. Ultimately, the choice should consider aesthetics and practicality, focusing on creating a harmonious and functional living space. Learn more about the ideal height of a coffee table. 

Strength of Square Coffee Tables

• Clean Lines and Symmetry: Square coffee tables are celebrated for their clean lines and symmetrical shape, which can lend a sense of order and structure to your living room. They are particularly well-suited for contemporary and minimalist interior designs.

• Ample Surface Area: If you’re an avid decorator or require more surface area for coffee table books, trays, or decorative items, square coffee tables offer more usable space than their round counterparts. This can be especially useful if you enjoy arranging and displaying various items on your coffee table.

• Sectional Sofas and Large Spaces: A square coffee table can complement the room’s scale and provide a balanced look for those with sectional sofas or larger seating areas. They can serve as a central focal point, anchoring the seating arrangement effectively.

What shape table fits best in a square room?

Should I get a round or square coffee table? A square or round table can work quite well in a square room, but the choice between the two depends on your specific preferences and the room’s layout. Ultimately, choosing between a square or round table in a square room depends on your design preferences and the desired functionality. Consider the room’s overall style, the space’s size, the layout of your seating, and the atmosphere you want to create. Both shapes can work beautifully; it’s a matter of which one aligns better with your vision for the room and suits your practical needs. Here are some considerations for both options:

• Square Table: A square table in a square room can enhance the sense of symmetry and balance. It complements the room’s shape and creates a visually harmonious look. Square tables are an excellent choice if you want to fill the room’s central area. They can create a strong focal point, especially if a seating arrangement follows a square or symmetrical pattern. Square tables work well with square or rectangular seating arrangements. They can provide a sense of proportion and coordination with the seating.

• Round Table: Round tables in a square room can add a dynamic element by breaking away from the room’s angular lines. They create a flow and sense of movement, making the room feel less rigid. Round tables are great for maximizing space, especially in smaller square rooms. Their lack of corners can make the room feel more open and less cramped. Round tables can easily accommodate different seating arrangements. They work well with circular or mixed seating styles, making them versatile.

What is the benefit of a round coffee table?

• Round coffee tables create a sense of flow and movement in a room. The absence of sharp corners encourages a smoother traffic flow and a more inviting atmosphere.

• Round coffee tables are space-efficient, making them an excellent choice for smaller living rooms. Their lack of corners means they take up less floor space and can help create a feeling of openness.

• Round coffee tables work well with a variety of seating arrangements. They can be paired with circular seating or mixed with other seating styles, providing flexibility in arranging furniture.

• Round coffee tables are safer, especially in homes with children or pets. The absence of sharp corners reduces the risk of accidental injuries caused by bumping into the table’s edges.

• Should I get a round or square coffee table? With a round coffee table, everyone seated around it has equal access to the table’s surface. This is advantageous when serving snacks or beverages or engaging in group activities.

• A round coffee table can be a central focal point in your living room, anchoring the seating area and providing a stylish centerpiece for your decor.

• The rounded shape of the table encourages conversation and interaction among people seated around it. This makes round coffee tables an excellent choice for spaces where socializing is a priority.

• Round coffee tables offer a great platform for displaying decorative items, allowing for creative styling and arrangements without the constraints of corners.

Is a round coffee table better for a small living room?

For several reasons, a round coffee table can be an excellent choice for a small living room. Round coffee tables lack sharp corners, making them more space-efficient in small living rooms. They can be positioned in the center of the seating area without protruding into the walking space, making it easier to move around the room. In a compact living room, it’s essential to maintain a smooth flow of traffic. A round coffee table allows people to navigate around it more easily than a rectangular or square table, reducing the risk of bumping into furniture. Round coffee tables can work well with various seating arrangements. They can fit seamlessly into circular and square seating layouts, making them versatile for arranging furniture in a small space. Round tables often have a softer, less bulky appearance, which can visually open up a small room and create a more inviting atmosphere. With no sharp corners, round coffee tables can be safer, especially if you have children or pets.

What shape table takes up the least space?

The shape of a table that takes up the least space largely depends on the specific layout and requirements of the room or area where it will be placed. However, in general terms, a round table tends to be the most space-efficient shape. This is because a round table lacks sharp corners or edges, which can make it easier to navigate around in tight spaces and can accommodate more people in a compact arrangement. Rectangular and square tables, while widespread, may require more room due to their corners, making them less space-efficient in some situations. Ultimately, the choice of table shape should be based on the available space and the table’s intended use.

What are the benefits of a square coffee table?

• Square coffee tables are known for their clean, structured lines and symmetrical shape. They can add a sense of order and balance to your living room, making them an excellent choice for contemporary or minimalist design styles.

• Square coffee tables generally offer more usable surface area than their round counterparts. This extra space can be advantageous if you need room for decorative items, coffee table books or if you frequently entertain and require space for snacks and drinks.

• Should I get a round or square coffee table? Square coffee tables are often preferred when you have a sectional sofa. Their square shape complements the linear arrangement of the sectional and creates a cohesive look.

• In larger living rooms, square coffee tables can help define different seating areas within the same space. They can serve as anchor points for various seating arrangements.

• Square coffee tables come in a wide range of styles, allowing you to find one that complements your existing decor. Whether you prefer a modern, rustic, or traditional look, a square coffee table will likely suit your taste.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer in the age of old debate round vs. square coffee tables. Should I get a round or square coffee table? Both shapes have unique qualities and can be stunning additions to your living room. Your choice should reflect your style, the aesthetics of your space, and your practical requirements. So whether you opt for the elegant curves of a round coffee table or the clean lines of a square one, your decision should reflect your taste and a source of joy in your home. So, go ahead and choose the table that resonates with you and let it become the centerpiece of your living room, where conversations flow, and memories are made.

Ready to elevate your living room with a stunning coffee table? Explore Mexports‘ exquisite collection of round and square coffee tables, where style meets functionality. Whether you’re leaning towards the timeless elegance of a round table or the structured lines of a square one, we have the perfect centerpiece for your home. Visit our website to discover our curated selection and bring home a piece that resonates with your style. Redefine your living space with Mexports – where conversations flow and memories are made.

If you are still confused about what tables are fit for you, then you can get more ideas about

Should I Get A Round or Rectangle Coffee Table?