Is it Better To Have a Coffee Table or Ottoman?

Many customers who visit our showroom often ask, is it better to have a coffee table or ottoman?

The coffee table debate has raged since the first wooden tables appeared in 16th century England. The ottoman entered the chat when the popularity of coffee tables began to plummet.

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether you need a coffee table or an ottoman, also known as footstools, for your living room. The size of the room, your lifestyle, the number of guests you entertain and even your budget is some aspects. This has given rise to many asking a simple question — is it better to have a coffee table or an ottoman that can double as one? Let’s dive into it.

The benefits of coffee tables

In small spaces or when the furniture is dark and bulky, coffee tables are fantastic since they aesthetically open up a space and make it look more open and light. They add a particular design aesthetic because they provide a hard surface, whereas ottomans are generally made of fabric and the softer surface is not always practical.

For interior design inspiration and ideas for the layout of coffee tables in your living room, browse our project portfolio. Coffee tables like the Uptown Coffee Table by Naos are classic pieces of furniture that can be used to store books, magazines or other knick-knacks. They can also be used to hold your coffee mug or other drinks while you're watching TV or just sitting down to relax.

The benefits of ottomans 

Ottomans are the perfect place to put your feet up and relax, but they can also be used as a coffee table!

Ottomans come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find one that fits perfectly in your living space. They're great for storing things like blankets and extra pillows. If you're looking to add a touch of personality to your living room or bedroom, consider adding an ottoman. The wide choice of fabrics available means you can customise your ottoman to add to the aesthetic of your room. 

Coffee tables vs ottomans

So you're thinking about getting a coffee table. Coffee tables are highly functional items of furniture. You can use them for setting your laptop on while you work from home or for displaying books and pretty picture frames. But there are some things to consider before making your purchase.

Pros of coffee tables

• Coffee tables are useful for holding magazines, books or other small decorative items
• They're generally quite sturdy and can support heavier items like lamps
• They can be used as a makeshift dining table if necessary

Cons of coffee tables

• They can take up space in an already-crowded living room
• They can clutter walkways, interrupting the flow of your space

The ottoman is a piece of furniture that's great for your home. It provides extra seating and it can also be used as a footrest or side table.

Pros of ottomans

• It's a great place to store blankets, pillows, and other things you want to keep close at hand
• Ottomans are a great place for kids to sit and play on the floor.
• Ottomans are also great for pets to sleep on

Cons of ottomans

• If you have a lot of them in your home, they can take up a lot of space
• They aren't very sturdy and may not hold up well under heavy use (e.g., by children)

Which is best for your home? 

You can go with a coffee table or an ottoman. It all depends on what kind of space you want to fill and what sort of style you're going for. If you're looking for a more traditional look and feel, then a piece like the Santiago Coffee Table might be the perfect way to go.

If you're looking for something that is multi-functional and less traditional, then an ottoman could be just the thing. Choose from sleek and modern or perhaps something that has more of a traditional feel. Maybe you're looking for something with lots of storage space and you want a large ottoman that doubles as a chest. It's all up to you.

Professional advice if you're not sure which one to choose

Our team of designers has worked on residential and commercial spaces all around the globe, from London to the US, Africa and the Middle East. We know how important it is for you to be comfortable in your own home and we take that responsibility very seriously.

We invest time and energy in discovering the latest trends and designs so that you can have the best possible furniture experience in your home or business. We can help you figure out what kind of product will work best for your space and your budget. We are ready to help you find the best options for your home!

In conclusion

A coffee table or an ottoman can be an excellent addition to any room in the home, but which is best for your space?

As with all furniture, a coffee table comes in different types and there are many aspects to consider when choosing one. The same goes for an ottoman.

The choice is entirely up to you based on what kind of furniture item you want and how much space is available in the room where it will be placed. Browse our collection of contemporary coffee tables for more ideas. You can also send us some questions or requirements via WhatsApp or visit our showroom to see samples.