30 Design-Forward Coffee Tables for Even the Smallest Spaces

I recently downsized from an open, airy, 1100+ square foot loft to a tiny one-bedroom in Chicago (albeit with gorgeous views). As a result, I’ve had to switch out plenty of my furniture. The dining room table that once sat eight comfortably has been replaced with a kitchen island complete with two high-top chairs. My cushy sectional is now a three-seater couch—in a bouclé fabric that I’m hoping against hope my cats don’t destroy. And though I’ve outfitted the majority of my apartment, I’m on the hunt for the best coffee tables for small spaces. Because my mindset is fixed on maximizing.

30 Best Coffee Tables for Small Spaces

Coffee tables are surprisingly utilitarian. As a beverage-obsessive, I need somewhere to keep my glass, mug, cup, etc. within reach. And because there’s no better weekend activity than a book binge spent on the couch, I need a coffee table to house my stack of reads. I also won’t hold this etiquette faux pas against you: I too happily kick my feet up on the coffee table whenever given the chance.

The point is, alongside a bed and mattress, I’d consider a coffee table a home essential. (Because no matter how small, it’s bound to serve as your dining table from time to time.) All living rooms deserve a great coffee table, no matter how small. So for the more diminutive living areas, we’ve gathered 30 great options to suit all styles and spaces, from nesting tables to artful accents with sneaky storage.

Circular Coffee Tables

When selecting coffee tables for small spaces, a circular shape is often my go-to. The rounded build maintains its dual functional-decorative status and feels elevated while still packing its impact up top. The curved beauties below make the most of their compact yet statement-making structure. They’re also proof that 2023’s curved furniture trend isn’t going anywhere.

Narrow Coffee Tables

When width is a worry in your small space, keep it on the straight and narrow. Rectangular coffee tables—with their sleek silhouettes and occasionally a second shelf—add plenty of style without dominating the space. They’re streamlined and minimalist while still fulfilling their duty (making my kicked-up feet feel right home). Any of the options below will help complete the living area of your dreams.

Built-In Storage Coffee Tables

When it comes to small spaces, nothing is more valuable than sneaky storage. The following pieces do it brilliantly—blending style and function with ease. They let you display what you want and hide what you want thanks to sliding slats, pop-up drawers, and more brilliant design tricks.

Statement Coffee Tables

A coffee table may not seem like a place to make a bold statement, but allow these unique picks to make their case. Some are cheeky, colorful, and double as killer conversation starters. Whatever the impact, they’re sure to add a little whimsy to any aesthetic.

Nesting Coffee Tables

As versatile as they are striking, these coffee table duos can shrink or expand depending on your needs. They look stunning paired together, but the beauty of nesting coffee tables is that they can also be styled apart. If your goal is to create a dynamic, versatile scene, nesting coffee tables are the route to take.