Wheels get a lot of credit. I understand why, of course. We go from A to B to everywhere because of it. But the interesting thing about the wheel (if you think about it), is that it’s not necessarily the object that deserves praise — it’s the shape. Without its curves, the wheel wouldn’t be such a powerful tool. Which brings me to my point: Sometimes biggest changes come in the simplest curve of a line. Modest coffee table. Swap a rectangle or square for a round version and surprise your living room inherit a flow. It was that ease of impact that inspired me to look for any and all of the coffee table decor ideas out there.
But before we get into any styling tips, I wanted to explore the work behind the rounded version of living room staple. When is it ideal to choose edges that are more curved than those that are 90 degrees? And is a round (or even oval) coffee table great for any space?
Not so much, interior designer Meghan Basinger replied later. “It’s really only appropriate in certain situations,” founder and principal of Stevie Interiors speak to me. “You have to think about the room, the big picture, and take into account the other key elements.”
In an effort to make the most of curve trends (yes, they giant decor in 2022), I clicked on Basinger for her tip on when to choose soft edges over hard. And, of course, the best decorating ideas for any round coffee table. Here’s hers.
Featured image via Ashlee fox, fox
Image of Nicki Sebastian
The best room for a round coffee table
Round coffee tables are best suited for spaces with sofas and couches, or multi-section sofas. These sofas typically take up more space, have more hard lines, and so a round table will soften the look, says Basinger. “It fits snugly in the nook and cranny” and adds a flow.
Image of Alea Moorepolite of Stevie Interiors.
Another ideal arrangement is when you want to design a more formal seating arrangement. Basinger likes to sit four chairs in the cozy living room around a larger round coffee table, creating an intimate place to drink cocktails, chat and even hang out. game night.
Image of Molly Culver
Unexpected benefits of round coffee tables
When small people come running, a round coffee table might be a little… kinder. “We have customers with young children who often fall and hit the corner of the table,” she said. Of course, if it’s square or rectangular, that doesn’t always feel great! ”
How round coffee tables work in smaller homes
It’s perfect for when limited room, Basinger believes. “It’s really great if you don’t have a lot of space because round coffee tables tend to be smaller and don’t take up as much space as square or rectangular coffee tables.” For cramped apartments, such as urban studios, look for a circular option with a glass top that, she says, “gives more of an airy feel.”
Keep scrolling for 3 tips that will help you style your round coffee table like a pro
Image of Alea Moorepolite of Stevie Interiors
#1: Go to class
This goes well with whether you’re styling a coffee table or a bookshelf, says Basinger. Think about different heights and textures and stack them on top of the board. “A stack of books on the coffee table. A vase with fresh or dried flowers. And maybe another object, like something vintage or a bronze candlestick. “
Image of Michelle Nash
#2: Think for 3 seconds
Avoid overfitting a round coffee table. Basinger suggests: “I always tell people to avoid a mess. “It should be intentional.” You can accomplish this by keeping it in three sections, which creates a balanced look.
Image of Danielle Sabol
#3: Keep it Tonal
For a streamlined look, keep everything the same color or complementary tone. And again, play different heights and textures. This keeps the interface clean and tidy.
What about the Oval Coffee Table?
Yes! exclaims Basinger, who likes to pair an oval with a simple sofa without a bench. This adds the flow of a curved edge to a slightly longer length. Basinger also suggests going with the funnier, more fancy round coffee tables out there, some with thick bases, concrete details, and even funnier shapes. Whatever it may be, getting rid of the rigid edges takes you on a decor adventure. “The rings are a bit more fun.”
Image of Michelle Nash
