The coffee table is the piece of furniture that everyone looks at in the living room. This page compares materials, specifies the height that matches the seating surface, and explains when a group of two tables works better than a large one.
Marble, Wood, Metal, Glass
Marble is heavy, cool, and sensitive to acid: a red wine ring will remain if not removed immediately. Wood is more forgiving and warms the room but shows every water stain. Metal is the easiest material to care for and the coldest. Glass visually disappears and is the right choice in small rooms, but it shows every fingerprint. If you want both, choose two coffee tables made of different materials.
The Height to the Seating Surface
The tabletop should ideally be at the same height as the seating surface of the sofa or up to five centimeters below it. Higher, the table becomes a barrier; significantly lower, you have to bend down. The distance to the sofa edge should be 35 to 45 centimeters, allowing you to pass without turning. For deep lounge sofas, the table can be closer because you sit further back.
Two Tables Instead of One
A group of two tables of different heights is more versatile than a single large top. It can be pulled apart when guests arrive, and one of them can move to an armchair as a side table. To make it look intentional and not like an afterthought, the heights should differ significantly, at least eight centimeters, and the materials should remain related.
What Belongs on It
Three things are sufficient: something flat, something tall, something living. A stack of books, a bowl, and a plant or candle. Everything together should remain within an imaginary area of about one-third of the tabletop; the rest remains free. A cluttered coffee table makes any room appear smaller.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high should the coffee table be?
At the height of the seating surface or up to five centimeters below it. For deep lounge sofas, rather at the lower end.
How much distance to the sofa?
35 to 45 centimeters. This allows you to pass without turning sideways and reach the tabletop while seated.
Is marble in the living room practical?
Yes, with one limitation: acid. Wine, lemon, and vinegar must be removed immediately, otherwise, they will etch a dull spot into the polish.
Consultation by an Authorized Dealer
Casa Luxury is the interior world of an established, authorized Eichholtz specialist dealer. We are listed in the brand's official dealer directory and offer personal advice, online and in our showroom in Essen. For the right selection, special requests, and projects, please contact us at info@casa-luxury.de.
Further in the guide: Mobili Di Lusso · Divani Di Lusso · Eichholtz Coffee Tables
Designer Coffee Tables: Material, Height, Groups: models from the current range
A selection of available models. Each image opens the product page with dimensions, material and delivery time.
