The coffee table is the centerpiece of your living room. If you are remodeling your house or simply changing your living room furnishings, you may also need to change your old oval coffee table. Picking the perfect coffee table for your living room is not as easy as going to the furniture shop and picking out the first oval coffee table or the cheapest one you can find. If you want your coffee table to stand out and add an interesting feel to your newly remodeled living room, there are few things that you need to consider.
Before heading to the store, take a moment to sit and imagine the coffee table that 
would match the design of the room. Look at the color of the walls, the natural lighting, the space, the floor and most of all, the rest of the furnishing. You want to strike a balance of all the texture, colors, weight and overall feel of your room. A single article such as a mismatched oval coffee table could ruin that balance in an instance. Picture your table in the middle of the living room and imagine its shape, material, purpose, color and size. When you have a goal in mind, it will be easier for you to choose.
Size
Coffee tables are usually placed 15 inches away from the couch or sofa. This will give you enough leg room to move about between the sofa and the table without bumping your knees. Taking note of this will help you determine the right size. Coffee tables are generally 16 inches from the floor. If your living room has a contemporary or modern design, you can choose a coffee table that is slightly lower, about 11 inches from the floor. Ideally, the table should be the same height as the seat of the sofa.
Shape
Traditional and classical rooms are notable for their elegance and class. An oval coffee table with curvy legs is a perfect choice especially if your couch is skirted or heavy. Modern designs are usually round or square with very little or no intricate details. If your sofa has legs, go for a more solid or block table to balance the two.
Purpose
As the name implies, coffee tables are supposedly used for having coffee or tea. However, the living room has turned into a multipurpose room. This is where you have your early morning coffee while reading the newspaper, children will use the coffee table to do their assignments and art work, and your husband may put his feet up on it while watching TV.
If that is how your coffee table is going to be used, choose one that is sturdy and can withstand the abuse. Wooded or upholstered tables are your best option. If your table is used mainly for decorative purpose, a walnut surface can add a touch of elegance to the room. If you have a beautiful carpet, you can show it off by using a glass top table. Glass top tables can also help in making your room appear larger so this is also a good choice if you don’t have a big space and want to create a more open and airy feel.
