A Round Coffee Table Can Promote Harmony in the Home

As a designer, I like using a round coffee table in larger living rooms, family rooms and dens to bring harmony. This is particularly important when I work with families who have children. It is a subtle distinction, but a larger coffee table that connects opposite sides of an L-shaped sofa or brings two pieces of a sofa set together actually help family members communicate better. The simple act of being able to touch the same unifying object, in this case the round coffee table is what breaks down any communication barriers and actually enhances communication, conversation and sharing. For those familiar with the ideas of spatial harmony and tranquility promoted by Feng Shui, it is a similar concept of creating personal and familial harmony through placement of objects. In this case the round coffee table balances the space created by the larger sofa arrangement and or the larger living room space. It is felt on a subconscious or unconscious level which makes it stronger than the emotional responses we recognize and can name.

These round tables are enjoying almost as much popularity as their square counterparts with the current trend of over-sized, plush, fluffy, comfortable furniture. Round coffee tables provide more width and depth to connect the far sides of the sofa and the people on those far sides of the sofa.

The styles of round coffee tables abound. Everything from wrought iron and glass to plush, fabric covered cabinets are available online for shopping. The most widely available are solid wood. Depending on the size of the top, the base may be a single pedestal style with 3 or 4 feet elegantly draping off of the pedestal leg, or the table may have several legs at the perimeter, 5 to 8 legs at the perimeter is the normal range. 

For homes with rowdy children a padded, plush round coffee table will keep junior from hurting himself when he accidentally bounces off the couch on to the table and will give you an elegant look that can be tidied quickly when you want to entertain adults. For those less concerned about entertaining adults, some of the padded styles come with a light nap carpet covering. Cleaning off junior’s art project is as easy as vacuuming.  

If the round coffee table will be used in a formal setting such as a parlor or formal living room then an intricate inlay pattern made of wood, glass or tile will be your best bet. If you choose the wood or tile, consider adding a glass top to protect the table top. Choose a glass top that has at least 4 silicon style buttons about the diameter of a pencil eraser and one-eighth of an inch thick to add a layer of air between the table and the glass otherwise you will find it too difficult to move the glass. Tempered glass is the best choice for a protective covering.

Choosing a round coffee table for your home shows your collaborative nature and willingness to bring others together. Round tables bring a sense of equality and harmony to a home. Best wishes choosing yours.