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What Is the Table Behind A Couch Called?

Feb 19, 2025

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When I plan my clients’ living rooms, I often notice that every small detail of the interior can have a huge impact on the overall atmosphere of the room. A coffee table, also known as a console table, often becomes the secret decorative accent for me that unites all the elements of the room. I usually place it behind the sofa, where it performs not only an aesthetic but also a practical function: I can conveniently place a cup of coffee, highlight the most beautiful accessories, or even hide wires.

In this article, I will tell you how I use coffee tables in my projects, what value they bring to the interior, and share useful design ideas and inspiring examples.

What is a coffee table?

A brief description and place in the home

In my practice, a coffee table is a long, narrow piece of furniture designed to be placed behind the back of a sofa. Unlike a coffee table, which is placed in front of the seating area, this piece of furniture provides additional space on the other side, thus expanding the functionality of the living room.

Photo by Megan Murphy

Alternative names

Sofa table
Console table
Couch table
Console (in certain situations)

Design styles and materials

Since every interior is unique, try to choose a coffee table that matches the overall style.

Wooden coffee tables: provide warmth and comfort (oak, walnut, reclaimed wood).
Metal frame: a great accent for a modern or industrial interior (black steel, brass).
Glass tabletop: if you want to create an impression of lightness or visually increase the space.

Photo by @faringsohuset

Our Favorite Sofa Tables:

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Why choose a coffee table behind the sofa?

Gives the space a sense of unity and complements the decor. When I strive to create a harmonious layout of the space, a coffee table allows me to emphasize the overall style, giving the final “accent”.

Photo by Stefana Silber

Additional space for things

I have a habit of keeping a table lamp, a few favorite books or even a vase of fresh flowers on the table behind the sofa. This is convenient, because guests do not have to bend over to the coffee table in front.

Photo by Caroline Reichel

Separating space in open-plan rooms

If I am working with an open-plan space, where the living room connects to the kitchen or dining area, a coffee table helps to subtly separate the seating area from other areas, while maintaining the overall style.

Hiding wires and sockets

It often happens that I have to rack my brains about how to hide the wires from lamps or chargers. A coffee table is a great place to hide these elements to keep the overall look neat.

How to choose the right coffee table?

Height and proportions

When preparing projects, I always check that the table is not higher than the back of the sofa. Ideally, its surface is at the same level or slightly lower. I also try to visually match the length of the table with the width of the sofa, leaving some space at the edges.

Photo by Katie Staples

Materials and finishes

If I want the table to blend in with the overall environment, I combine it with other furniture materials: for example, with the wooden finish of the coffee table or the metal details of the lamps. Sometimes, in order to create contrast, I choose a completely different material or color tone.

Photo by Chelsey Freng

Storage vs. minimalism

Open shelves: great if I want to display magazines, rugs or baskets.
Simple tabletop: Suitable for modern minimalism.

How to arrange things stylishly on a coffee table?

Balanced decor

Photo by Kim Worswick

Layering and textures

I like to use trays - they help to group smaller items, such as a scented candle or small accessories. Small sculptures, cute souvenirs from travel or even a live plant add texture and personality.

Seasonal Decor

As the seasons change, I sometimes update my table decor: in the fall I add warm shades, in the winter I add festive accents, and in the spring and summer I collect an abundance of fresh flowers.

Photo by @dpiahome

Common mistakes to avoid

Incorrect height

I have seen many cases where the table is much higher than the back of the sofa, and this creates a strange imbalance. I suggest choosing one whose height is close to the back of the sofa.

Too much load

Sometimes clients want to fit everything in one place – from books to a collection of souvenirs. I advise you to keep free space so that all the decor can “breathe” and be clearly visible.

Functionality is ignored

You need to think about whether the table will have a lamp, a place to put keys or a phone? If the coffee table will be used daily, it is good to think about how to maintain both beauty and convenience.

The best coffee table designs for different interior styles

Modern minimalism

Choose a table with a metal frame or a varnished surface to create a clean and modern effect.

Photo by Sherri Calnan

Rustic (Farmhouse)

I like bleached or aged wood tables with soft, simple shapes that emphasize warmth.

Photo by Stephanie Short Campbell

Industrial

Experiment with dark metal, rough wood, visible welding elements. This style gives an “urban” flavor.

Photo by Cha Loves Cafe

Classic

If I’m looking for solidity and luxury, I choose massive wooden tables with expressive details or brass elements.

Photo by @dpiahome

DIY ideas and budget-friendly solutions

Simple DIY options

Wooden boards + metal legs: Purchase ready-made metal legs and attach a board of the chosen finish. The result is an original and personal piece of furniture.
Recycled furniture: an old chest of drawers or a narrow table can be reborn in a new role with a little paint and creativity.

Photo by Champagne Chaos

Searching for inexpensive options

Bluster shops, thrift stores, online ads often hide real gems. Sometimes a narrow shelf can become a great coffee table, you just need to adapt the right legs or handles to it.