The coffee table sits right in the middle of the living room, so if it’s the wrong size, you feel it every single day. Too big, and the room feels cramped. You’re squeezing around it, knocking knees, and constantly shifting it to walk past. Too small, and everything looks out of proportion and a bit awkward.
Ideally, the table should feel connected to the sofa. A common rule is roughly two-thirds the length of the sofa, with enough space around it to walk comfortably – usually about 40–50 cm between the table and seating. That’s close enough to put down a cup, but far enough that you’re not trapped.
Height matters too. If it’s much lower than the sofa seat, you’re always leaning too far down. If it’s too high, it looks bulky and strange. Somewhere around the height of the seat or slightly lower usually feels good.
When the size is right, the seating area feels balanced, practical and easy to use. You don’t notice the table as a problem – it just quietly works.