Minimal Rectangle Coffee Tables

Sometimes, even the most basic of furniture pieces can be tricky to find! Items like coffee tables can often be an afterthought until we realize there’s not enough room, too much space, or everything is too bulky. These are common living room woes. I’ve styled dozens of living rooms and choosing the coffee table always makes a big impact. But with all the choices out there, it can be overwhelming. Well, I’ll break it all down here, including when to choose rectangle coffee tables, what size, and how to style them, plus my curated list of favorites!

What size coffee table for my couch?

This is a great question. Mainly because it’s a little like goldilocks. Many living rooms suffer from a table too small or too large. So, to find the right proportion, choose a coffee table that is about 2/3 the length of the couch. If it’s a sectional, just measure the length of the horizontal seating area.

Typically, coffee tables should also sit completely on the living room rug. An area rug underneath keeps the table and other furniture from feeling like they are floating in space. If you’re not sure which size, use my Area Rug Size Guide which include living room layout charts with coffee tables and couches.

Minimal Rectangle Coffee Tables:

1. Oak Rectangular Coffee Table – this one is perfect for a coastal design style
2. Black Rectangle Coffee Table – also available in a light wood
3. Acacia Wood Coffee Table – subtle nod towards mid century modern style
4. Wood and Metal Coffee Table – perfect for transitional and modern spaces
5. Black Metal Coffee Table – minimal modern vibes with this one
6. Traditional Wood Rectangle Coffee Table – works well with modern farmhouse or traditional decor styles

Round or Rectangle Coffee Table?

Deciding between a round or rectangle coffee table can be tough! There are a few things to consider for each option. Generally, rectangle coffee tables work well in larger spaces or more traditional layouts with a standard couch and adjacent accent chairs.

Round coffee tables are a great option in smaller cozier spaces where extra foot room around the table is needed. They also add visual contrast to a room that might otherwise have mostly boxy, squared furniture. Considering shape (form) is one of the 7 Elements of Design – keep this in mind when choosing.

How to style a rectangle coffee table?

At first, styling a rectangular table can feel tricky. It might look too sparse or too cluttered. However, with a few quick tips, it’s easy to style naturally.

First, I like to think of three main items such as a vase, books, and a candle. Next, think of choosing proportionate items. A bigger table simply needs a bigger vase. Finally, loosely group items along a line, following the rectangular shape of the table.

Final Thoughts on Coffee Tables

I hope this post helps choose rectangle coffee tables. Not only is about choosing the style but the size is important too! And don’t feel stuck with just squared tables, sometimes a round coffee table works better in a space.

Feeling adventurous? Check out my easy DIY coffee table for a simple project. I have more suggestions, especially for those who have a hard time letting go, on my post Minimalist Home Decor for the Sentimental.