How to Coordinate a Coffee Table and TV Stand (10 Tips That Work)
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In this article, we’ll explore 10 tips that will help you effortlessly harmonize your coffee table and TV stand.
Whether you’re looking to match colors and materials or balance shapes and sizes, these expert tips will guide you in making the right design choices to transform your living room into a stylish and inviting space.
1. Consider What Style You Want
First, you’ll need to figure out the kind of look you want (and what you kind of decor you already have).
Typically, you’ll see 3 different styles available—modern, classic, and rustic, which we’ll discuss in more detail in this section.
Modern Styles
If you prefer a contemporary look, modern styles are the way to go. These designs typically feature clean lines, minimalistic features, and sleek materials like metal, glass, and glossy finishes.
To achieve a seamless coordination of your coffee table and TV stand, opt for a streamlined design with a matching color scheme.
For example, you might choose a black metal frame for both pieces (like the images above) and stick to a monochromatic palette for accent items.
- Key characteristics: Clean lines, minimalist, sleek materials
- Color schemes: Monochromatic, neutral tones
Classic Styles
For a more traditional ambiance, classic styles are a perfect choice. These designs often incorporate rich, dark woods, intricate carvings, and luxurious upholstery.
If you want to go for a classic style, look for items that share similar woodworking and design details (like the coffee table and tv stand pictured below).
Additionally, don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and fabric textures in your seating area.
- Key characteristics: Elegant wood, detailed carvings, luxurious upholstery
- Color schemes: Warm tones, deep hues, timeless patterns
Rustic Styles
If you enjoy a cozy, natural atmosphere, rustic styles are an excellent option. This design category typically features reclaimed wood, weathered finishes, and natural elements like stone or wrought iron.
To create a cohesive look, select a coffee table and TV stand that showcase similar materials and finishes (see the example below).
Accessorize your space with items like jute rugs, vintage trinkets, and plenty of greenery to emphasize the charming, countryside vibe.
- Key characteristics: Reclaimed materials, weathered finishes, natural elements
- Color schemes: Earthy tones, warm neutrals, inviting textures
2. Selecting the Right Size
Measuring Your Space
First, you’ll need to measure your space accurately. Grab a measuring tape and take note of the following dimensions:
- Length: Measure the distance between the sofa and the TV stand or any other large furniture piece you may have in your living space.
- Width: Measure the width of the room, taking into account any obstacles that could impact furniture placement, such as fireplaces or pillars.
When you have these measurements, you’ll be in a better place to select a coffee table that works well with your tv stand and complements the size of the room.
Considering Proportions
Once you know the dimensions of your space, yo’ull need to choose a coffee table and TV stand with the right proportions. Here are a few guidelines to follow:
- Coffee table width: Subtract 48 inches (30 inches for the sofa and 18 inches for some legroom) from the length of the room to find the ideal width for your coffee table. This width should allow for a comfortable distance between the coffee table and TV stand without crowding the space.
- Height consistency: Aim to choose a coffee table and TV stand that are roughly the same height. This creates a sense of harmony in your living space and brings cohesion to your room.
3. Choosing Complementary Materials
Wood Options
Wooden furniture adds warmth and charm to any room. When choosing wood for your coffee table and TV stand, consider the type and color of wood you prefer. You have several options:
- Solid wood: This option provides durability and a distinct, natural look. Choose from oak, maple, cherry, or walnut to match the overall vibe of your room.
- Veneer: Veneer is a thin layer of natural wood bonded to a less expensive material like MDF. It’s an affordable option that still allows you to achieve a stylish look.
Remember to choose similar wood tones for cohesion and either match the finishes or opt for slightly varying shades that complement each other.
Metal Options
Metal furniture brings a modern and industrial touch to your living space. The following are two metals that you’ll often find when shopping for furniture:
- Stainless steel: It’s a popular choice for its sleek look and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel can pair well with a minimalist or contemporary room design.
- Wrought iron: This material offers a more traditional and rustic aesthetic. It adds character and pairs well with wooden elements in your room.
Ensure that the metal elements on both your TV stand and coffee table follow the same finish, whether it’s polished, brushed, or matte.
Glass and Other Options
For a sleek, contemporary look, consider incorporating glass or other materials into your coffee table and TV stand. Some options include:
- Glass: A glass top coffee table can add elegance and a sense of space to your living room. Pair it with a TV stand that has glass shelves or accents to create visual harmony.
- Mixed materials: Combining different materials like wood and metal or glass and metal can produce a unique, eye-catching look. Ensure that your coffee table and TV stand are made out of the same (or at least complementary) materials.
By considering these material options, you can create a beautifully coordinated space that reflects your personal style and preferences.
4. Coordinating Colors and Finishes
When you’re coordinating your coffee table and TV stand, paying attention to the colors and finishes can significantly enhance the overall design.
Matching Color Schemes
When choosing color schemes, consider opting for the same color or complementary colors. This creates a sense of harmony between the two items and brings cohesion to your room.
For example, if you have a dark wooden coffee table, you might choose a dark wooden TV stand to match. Keep in mind that matching materials, such as wood, glass, or metal, can also help create a more cohesive look.
Contrasting Palettes
If you’re more of a risk-taker, you can play with contrasting palettes to create a striking and dynamic look. Mixing and matching colors, textures, and materials can add that extra spark to your living space.
For instance, pair a dark metal TV stand with a light-colored coffee table. Or, contrast a wooden coffee table with a TV stand featuring glass or metal accents.
5. Functionality Considerations
Storage Needs
Do you have a lot of items to store, such as books, remote controls, and gaming consoles? If so, you may want to opt for a coffee table or TV stand with ample storage space.
This could include shelves, drawers, or built-in compartments. On the other hand, if you have minimal storage needs, a sleek and minimalist design may be the way to go.
Cable Management
Cable management is another critical element to think about when coordinating your living room setup. A cluttered and tangled mess of wires and cables can detract from the overall aesthetic you’re aiming to achieve.
Look for a TV stand with built-in cable management options, such as cut-out holes or cable routing features. This will help keep your wires organized and out of sight.
Also, consider the placement of your coffee table in relation to the TV stand. Ensure there’s enough space between the two to allow for easy access to outlets and proper cable routing.
You can also use cable organizers, like cable clips or cord covers, to keep everything tidy and neat.
6. Balancing Shapes and Lines
By selecting the right shapes, you can create a harmonious balance in your living room, making it pleasing to the eye. In this section, we’ll explore two different approaches: Square and Rectangular Solutions, and Round and Curved Options.
Square and Rectangular Solutions
Opting for square or rectangular coffee tables and TV stands is an excellent choice if you’re aiming for a cohesive and clean look.
These shapes provide clear lines that effectively match well with a wide range of interior designs. Additionally, they can:
- Create a sense of order by aligning with other symmetrical elements in your living space.
- Offer ample surface area for functional purposes, such as holding your remote control or displaying decorative items like vases or candles.
- Enhance a modern or minimalist design style.
When choosing a square or rectangular furniture, make sure that the dimensions makes sense for your living room size and layout without making it feel cramped or overwhelming.
Round and Curved Options
If you prefer a more fluid and softer aesthetic, you might like to consider round or curved coffee tables and TV stands.
These shapes help to:
- Add visual interest by breaking up the straight lines often found in living room furniture.
- Navigate tight spaces with ease due to the lack of sharp corners.
Now, it’s worth noting that round or curved furniture can take up more space than their square or rectangular counterparts, so make sure to get your measurements ready before adding that circular coffee table and tv stand to your cart.
7. Mix and Match Approach
Instead of focusing solely on matching colors and materials, you can also experiment with contrasting elements to create a dynamic living space.
Here are a few tips to help you with this approach:
Consider the balance between the two pieces of furniture. They don’t need to be identical in terms of design or material, but you’ll ideally want to find a harmonious connection. You can achieve this by choosing a common theme or style, such as rustic, modern, or industrial.
Don’t hesitate to be bold and creative. For instance, if you have a sleek black TV stand, try adding a pop of color with a red or teal coffee table. This can create an eye-catching contrast that brings energy and excitement to your space. On the other hand, if you have a wooden TV stand, a coffee table incorporating metal accents can create a mix and match effect that combines warmth with an industrial touch.
Focus on the textures and shapes of your TV stand and coffee table. Playing with different finishes and forms allows you to experiment with contrasts that can enhance the mix and match feel.
If your TV stand features clean, straight lines, complement it with a curvy or round-shaped coffee table. This creates an interesting visual balance and prevents your living space from appearing monotonous.
Accessories can also play a role in the mix and match process. Decorative elements like bowls, trays, or small sculptures can help bridge the gap between your coffee table and TV stand. Choose items that unite both pieces through their style, color, or material.
8. Accessorizing Your Coffee Table and TV Stand
Accessorizing your coffee table and TV stand can really bring your living room together and create a visually appealing focal point. Here are a few tips on how to effectively accessorize both pieces.
First, think about the function of your coffee table and TV stand. Do you use them for mostly decorative purposes or for practical uses? Understanding how you use these pieces will help guide your choices in accessorizing.
Items like decorative trays, candles, and small plants can add a touch of elegance and make your living space feel more inviting.
When you’re accessorizing your coffee table, remember to vary the heights and sizes of your decorative items. This creates balance and keeps the arrangement from looking cluttered. Group items in threes, with varying heights, to create an aesthetically pleasing arrangement.
For example, try pairing a small plant, a stack of coffee table books, and a decorative object that complements the overall color scheme of your living room.
When accessorizing your TV stand, focus on items that won’t distract from the TV itself. Simple items like small plants, books, or minimalist decorations can help add visual interest without pulling the focus away from the screen. Keep these items to the sides of your TV stand, so they don’t interfere with the viewing experience.
Maintaining a consistent theme in your accessories is important too. If you have a modern or minimalist living room, opt for sleek, simple accessories that complement your furniture. On the other hand, if you have a more eclectic or traditional living room, you may choose to incorporate colorful, unique items that reflect your personal style.
Lastly, pay attention to the material and color of your accessories. Try to match or complement the material of your coffee table and TV stand, whether it’s wood, metal, or glass. Similarly, stick to a color scheme that either matches or thoughtfully contrasts with the colors of your furniture.
9. Adapt Your Choices to Room Layout
When coordinating your coffee table and TV stand, it’s essential to consider your room’s layout. Focus on the main elements, which include spacing, color schemes, and style.
Begin with the room’s dimensions. Take into account the area you have available and the other furniture pieces that will share the space. If your living room is small, you might want to select a slim and minimalistic coffee table. For larger rooms, you can opt for a more substantial piece or even a set of smaller tables that complement each other.
Balance is crucial when selecting furniture for your living room. As you evaluate the size of your coffee table and TV stand, remember to maintain proportion. Avoid pairing a massive coffee table with a tiny TV stand, or vice versa. Instead, aim to choose pieces that harmonize with each other and the overall room layout.
Next, consider the color scheme. Choose a coffee table and TV stand that match or complement your existing decor. Don’t be afraid to mix materials and textures, as long as they create a cohesive look. For example, a glass coffee table paired with a wooden TV stand can work well, as long as the colors and finishes complement each other.
Lastly, think about your overall style and theme. Consider whether you’re going for a modern, traditional, or eclectic look. This will help you select pieces that match your desired aesthetic and ultimately add to the room’s unity.
By taking the time to adapt your coffee table and TV stand choices to your room’s layout, you’ll create a well-coordinated, visually appealing living space.