Should A Console Table Be Lower Than The Couch?
The Purpose of Console Tables
Console tables serve several key purposes in home decor:
Decoration – With their sleek, elegant shapes, console tables add visual interest and style to entryways, hallways, and living spaces. Their versatility allows them to fit with many decor styles from traditional to modern.
Storage – The tabletop surface provides storage and display space for vases, books, photos, lamps and more, while some console tables incorporate shelves or drawers for additional storage capacity.
Display – Console tables are ideal for highlighting cherished items like photos, art, collections, and floral arrangements. Their raised tabletop lifts objects up for prominence.
Functional – Console tables provide a useful surface for placing keys, bags, mail, etc. near entryways. Their narrow design fits well in tight spaces.
Standard Couch Height
Most couches today have a standard height that falls between 18-20 inches. The average couch height is around 18-20 inches from the floor to the top of the couch cushion (Sofa Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Size). This allows enough leg room and clearance for most people to comfortably sit on the couch. Some couches may be slightly taller or shorter, but the 18-20 inch range represents a standard and commonly used height.
Standard Console Table Heights
The standard height of most console tables ranges between 30 and 34 inches. According to Vaunt Design, “The standard height of a console table ranges from 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm)” (Source). Living Spaces similarly notes that “The average console table height is 30 inches, though designs can range anywhere from 28 inches to 32 inches in height” (Source). The typical console table height of 30-34 inches allows the table to complement standard couch heights without appearing awkwardly high or low.
Lower Console Tables Pros
One benefit of having a console table that is lower than the couch is that it can help visually open up a room and make it appear more spacious. According to The Ultimate Guide to Console Tables, console tables with reflective surfaces can create an illusion of more space and light, which is advantageous for smaller rooms. By keeping a console table low, it will not obstruct the view across the room as much, further enhancing the feeling of openness.
Additionally, having a lower console table makes items placed on top easier to access from the couch. You do not have to strain or stand up to reach objects, books, remotes, etc. that are kept on the table surface. The lower height creates a more ergonomic setup for comfortably using the console table while seated on the couch.
Lower Console Tables Cons
One of the main downsides of having a console table that is lower than the couch is that it has less decorative impact. Since a lower console table sits beneath the sightline of someone seated on the couch, it does not draw the eye or serve as a decorative focal point in the room as well as a taller console table that aligns more closely with couch height. This reduces the visual appeal and limits the table’s ability to anchor the living room’s style and design.
Lower console tables also offer less storage capacity compared to taller console tables. With less vertical space between the tabletop surface and the floor, there is not as much room for storage cubbies, shelves, and drawers. According to YourHomeVibe, this can limit storage options for items like books, decorative objects, remotes, and media players. The lower profile makes these types of console tables more suited for displaying a few accent pieces rather than substantial storage.
Matching Couch and Table Height Pros
One benefit of having a console table that matches the height of your couch is that it creates a balanced, cohesive look. Keeping the two pieces at the same level helps unite them visually, making the overall arrangement appear more intentional and styled.
Interior designers often recommend matching heights so that the couch and console table appear seamlessly connected (Source). This gives a smooth, streamlined aesthetic to your living room.
Having the table height match the couch also allows you to neatly align any decor, lamps, or accessories sitting on the tabletop with the back of the couch. This alignment can make the console table seem like an extension of the couch itself.
Overall, keeping the heights consistent promotes harmony and balance within the space by tying the two focal points together.
Matching Couch and Table Height Cons
While having furniture at the same height can provide a clean, uniform aesthetic, it does have some potential downsides. Most notably, matching the heights can make the furniture appear boxy or bulky. As interior designer Nathan Turner notes, “If you walk into a room and your sofa and your chairs and everything are the same height, it’s going to become boring. It would be like a bad chorus line” (source).
Having a lower console table also allows more legroom and space to stretch out. With a matched table height, the furniture pieces crowd each other and leave little room to extend your legs. This decreased legroom reduces overall comfort when relaxing on the couch.
Style and Decor Factors
The style and decor of a room is an important consideration when deciding on console table height in relation to the couch. More formal rooms often call for matched heights between the couch and console table, while casual rooms can handle more variation.
Larger couches and sectionals usually look best with a console table that is close in height, around 28-30 inches. Smaller loveseats and sofas can work with a console table that is several inches lower. For very large and oversized couches, matching the height is almost essential.
The height of the walls and ceilings can also impact the look. Rooms with tall ceilings can handle a lower console table, while a table that is too low might look odd in a room with shorter walls. The general rule is to keep the console table height proportional to the other furniture and architecture.
Those going for a more casual, eclectic or vintage look have more flexibility to mix different heights. Lower console tables can help create a laidback atmosphere. In formal spaces matching heights ties the furniture together.
The distance of the console table from the couch is also a consideration. If very close to the couch, similar heights usually look best. With more distance, varying the heights becomes an option.
Room Layout Considerations
When deciding on console table height in relation to your couch, it’s important to consider the layout of the room and how the furniture affects traffic flow and conversation areas.
Lower console tables behind a couch can be a great option if you want to create clear walkways behind seating areas. The lower profile minimizes the obstruction for people walking behind the couch. It also enables people to easily see and talk to others seated across the room.
On the other hand, matching the height of your console table to your couch creates a more unified visual look. This layout also enables the console table to double as a serving area or place to set down drinks and snacks when entertaining. However, a higher console table will be more disruptive to traffic flow behind a sofa.
Take measurements of your room, examine the flow of foot traffic and sightlines, and visualize different console table heights. This will help determine the best height in relation to your couch based on room layout.
Personal Preference
When choosing between a lower or matching height console table, personal preference in comfort, aesthetics, and practical needs should be considered.
Many find a lower table height more comfortable for resting arms while sitting on the couch. The slight difference in height allows arms to drape naturally without hitting the edge of the table (Vaunt Design). However, some may prefer the uniformity and clean lines of a matching height.
Aesthetically, a lower console table can contrast nicely with a taller couch, creating visual interest. On the other hand, matching heights present a tailored, seamless look. Consider your overall decor style and goals.
Practically, look at how the space will be used. If needing a surface for tasks like eating or working, matching table height allows you to comfortably rest arms while seated. If mainly decorative, a lower table often fits better (Woodstock Outlet).
Weigh your priorities in relaxation, design, and function when deciding on console table height in relation to your couch.
