Say Goodbye To Coffee Tables: This Is The Cozy Trend That's Slowly Replacing Them

Coffee tables are a staple in many living rooms, often becoming one of the central features in the design. While they boast a timelessness that's hard to compete with, a new trend is slowly replacing these subtle furniture pieces in favor of a cozier, softer vibe. Ottomans are a simple swap that offers a different purpose than that of a traditional coffee table. As a gentle place to rest your feet after a long day or a softer landing for playful children, the ottoman adds more texture and comfort to the room. Though many are still choosing to invest in coffee tables with features that allow them to use it to its full potential, ottomans can provide more storage, seating, and pattern to the space.

While ottomans are resurfacing in many home designs, coffee tables still serve a practical function in many spaces. Depending on your needs, an ottoman may not be the better choice. For example, if you love hosting parties where folks will have drinks on hand, having a solid, flat, level surface to place their drinks will be a party-saver. Upholstered ottomans may not be able to balance drinks as safely. Most coffee tables are also much easier to clean and less prone to staining from spills, making them a more suitable pick. Additionally, your interior aesthetic may be better suited to a harder texture rather than a soft one.

Using an ottoman in your living room is much like using a coffee table, though it serves a different function. For example, knowing how to choose the right size for an ottoman will depend on the size of your room and your sofa. Aside from size, it's generally a good idea to ask yourself what the main purpose is for your household when you're choosing between an ottoman vs a coffee table. If increased storage is a priority, you'll want to invest in a storage ottoman with enough depth to hold your things. Alternatively, if you're craving more texture and pattern in your design, you may not need a massive ottoman with internal storage. Right now, many folks are drawn towards shabby chic, patterned skirted ottomans, with many DIYing their own upholstery.

If you add this furniture piece to your space, then you need to know how to decorate an ottoman to make it feel intentional. Designers often suggest layering a throw blanket on the ottoman and using a tray to hold remotes, coffee table books, and decor items. Trays are great for offering a flat surface to set items down. However, a new trend that is slowly creeping into our spaces is adding a nesting table on top of an ottoman for a more functional approach that is layered and visually appealing. This trend marries the best of both ottomans and coffee tables while inviting a more stylistic look.