Round vs. square coffee tables: which is better for your living room?
Coffee tables are an essential piece of furniture in any living room. They serve as a place to rest your drinks, snacks, and books while you relax on the sofa. Coffee tables come in various shapes and sizes, but the two most popular are round and square. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of each shape and help you decide which one is better for your living room.
Round Coffee Tables
Round coffee tables have a classic, timeless look that complements almost any living room interior. They are available in different sizes, ranging from small to large, and can be made of different materials like wood, glass, metal, and stone. Round coffee tables offer a lot of benefits, but they also have some drawbacks.
Pros:
- Better Flow
Round coffee tables offer better flow in a living room than square ones. They are easy to move around and don’t create any sharp angles that can disrupt the traffic flow. Round coffee tables are perfect for small living rooms or spaces with limited floor space.
- Aesthetically Pleasing
They are aesthetically pleasing and create a soft, organic shape in the living room. They are a great option for people who prefer a minimalist, contemporary look or those who want to add a touch of elegance to their space.
- Versatility
Round coffee tables are incredibly versatile. They can be used as a statement piece or blended into the background, depending on the style of the living room. Round coffee tables can also be used to create a focal point or to balance out other furniture pieces in the room.
Cons:
- Limited Storage
Round coffee tables don’t offer as much storage space as square ones. Most of them only have a single shelf or drawer, which can limit their functionality. If you need a lot of storage space, a round coffee table might not be the best option for you.
- Difficult to Style
Styling a round coffee table can be a bit challenging. The circular shape can make it hard to balance out the decor, and some items might look out of place. If you enjoy decorating your coffee table, a square one might be easier to work with.
- Not Always Sturdy
Some round coffee tables can be wobbly or unstable, especially if they are made of lightweight materials like glass or metal. This can be a safety issue, especially if you have young children or pets in the house.
Square Coffee Tables
Square coffee tables are a popular choice for the modern, contemporary living room. They are available in different sizes and materials and offer a lot of benefits. However, they also have some drawbacks.
Pros:
- More Storage
Square coffee tables offer more storage space than round ones. They usually have multiple shelves or drawers, which can be used to store books, magazines, or remote controls. If you need a functional coffee table, a square one might be the best option for you.
- Easy to Style
Square coffee tables are easy to style and balance out. The sharp angles make it easy to create a symmetry and add decor items like vases, candles, or trays. If you enjoy decorating your coffee table, a square one might be the best option for you.
- Sturdier
Square coffee tables are usually sturdier than round ones. The four legs provide more stability and prevent the table from wobbling or tipping over. If you have young children or pets in the house, a square coffee table might be a safer option.
Cons:
- Limited Flow
Square coffee tables can disrupt the traffic flow in a living room. The sharp angles can create obstacles and make it difficult to move around. If you have a small living room, a square coffee table might not be the best option for you.
- Aesthetically Limited
Square coffee tables have a modern, contemporary look that might not suit every living room interior. They can look out of place in a traditional or rustic living room and might not be the best option for people who prefer a classic, timeless look.
- Limited Versatility
Square coffee tables offer limited versatility. They are usually used as a functional piece of furniture and don’t offer much room for creativity. If you want to use your coffee table as a statement piece, a square one might not be the best option for you.
Conclusion
Both round and square coffee tables offer their own set of benefits and drawbacks. Choosing the right one for your living room depends on your personal style, needs, and preferences. If you have a small living room, a round coffee table might be the best option for you. If you need a lot of storage space, a square coffee table might be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what works best for your living room and your lifestyle.