An ottoman can be used as a table. It is versatile and can hold various items when used this way.
For an ottoman to work as a table, it should be the right height, stable, and have a suitable surface. Square or rectangular ottomans are especially good for this purpose, fitting well with the straight lines of sofas and chairs.
Using an ottoman as a table is a practical way to add function to a room's decor.
Ottoman Versatility Explored
Ottomans are adaptable furniture items that can serve as both seats and tables in different rooms. Known as ottoman coffee tables, they are useful for people with limited space because they can be both a coffee table and a seating option. In interior design, ottomans have multiple uses without compromising on style.
A storage ottoman, for example, is a clever piece of furniture that offers seating, storage, and a flat surface in one. It has a storage area under its cushioned top for items like blankets or games. When you put a tray on it, it can hold drinks, books, or decorative pieces, turning the ottoman into a key part of a living room's functionality.
When designing ottomans that can also be coffee tables, considerations like size, material, and style are important to ensure they fit well with the room's decor and provide a sturdy, comfortable surface. Their dual function makes them popular for people who want furniture that can meet changing needs, such as seating extra guests or serving drinks.
Size and Surface Considerations
When choosing an ottoman to double as a table, size and surface are key considerations. The ottoman should be the same height as the sofa seat or slightly lower and large enough to serve as a coffee table without looking overcrowded. Everyday items like coffee cups and magazines should fit on it comfortably.
The surface of the ottoman is crucial. It must be flat for stability and a hard surface is better for supporting items. If the ottoman is upholstered, using trays or glass tops can create a stable area for placing items and protect the fabric.
Square or rectangular ottomans generally work well as coffee tables due to their edges and corners, which align with most living room furniture. Round or oval ottomans may require a sturdy tray to make them practical for balancing items.
The ottoman's surface should serve its purpose and match the room's decor. Choices range from leather for a modern look to tufted fabric for a warm feel, but it should always complement the room and function effectively as a coffee table.
Ideal Shapes for Table Use
Square or rectangular ottomans are suitable for use as tables because their shapes fit well with the straight lines of most living room furniture. They can hold items such as books, decorations, and drinks, making them practical and attractive additions to a home.
These ottomans provide a stable surface for placing drinks or displaying decor and are often the same height as surrounding chairs and sofas for easy access. Their straight edges help maintain a neat look in a room.
When used as coffee tables, square or rectangular ottomans can hold trays to keep items stable. Some come with storage options, like a hinged or removable top, to hide away items and reduce clutter.
Additionally, these ottomans can serve as a comfortable footrest and can offer extra seating. They combine convenience, style, and versatility, enhancing the utility and design of a living space.
Pros and Cons Comparison
Advantages and disadvantages of using an ottoman as a table should be carefully evaluated.
Ottomans offer versatility by providing additional seating and a surface that can act as a coffee table. This is beneficial for small spaces, maximizing usage of the area. Many ottomans also include storage space, helping to keep the area tidy. They come in various styles and can be customized to fit home decor. Ottomans are often easier to maintain, with some models featuring washable covers.
On the downside, ottomans may not be as stable as traditional tables, and might require trays for holding drinks securely. Their soft tops can make them less suitable for supporting items solidly. Switching to an ottoman might mean losing some features that a normal table would offer. The shape of an ottoman, particularly if not rectangular, can affect its usefulness as a table. Using an ottoman as a table could also impact activities such as dining or displaying certain decorations.
Styling With Trays and Glass
Adding a tray or glass top to an ottoman can change it into a multi-functional table that is both decorative and useful. A tray on an ottoman makes it stable for placing drinks, books, and remote controls, especially if the ottoman is soft. Choosing a tray that matches the room's decor can enhance the look and utility of the space. Trays made from faux leather or wood can be both practical and visually appealing.
For a more durable option, a custom-cut glass top can be placed on the ottoman to create a hard, spill-resistant surface, protecting the upholstery and prolonging the furniture's lifespan.
Ottomans with internal storage become more practical when a small tray is used on top, allowing the furniture to double as a side table while keeping items stored away neatly. This is particularly useful in small spaces where furniture must be versatile.
Lighter ottomans without storage can be moved easily, offering flexible seating or extra surface area when needed. Using trays and glass with ottomans emphasizes their flexibility and importance in modern home design.
Creative Decor and Functionality
Ottomans serve dual purposes: seating and as a table. They can be the centerpiece of a living room, blending style and function. When used as a coffee table, ottomans provide a distinctive look that can match the room's decor.
Choosing the right ottoman is important for a sophisticated appearance. Leather ottomans, for instance, are elegant and practical, offering a durable surface for daily use and adding a luxurious touch to any room. Ottomans come in various upholstery options, from bright patterns to soft colors, and their shapes range from round to square or even unique designs that stand out from typical living room furniture.
Ottomans are functional, providing extra seating, a place to rest feet, or a flat surface with a tray on top. Ottomans with storage compartments are effective for saving space and minimizing clutter, while still being convenient.
Storage Ottoman Benefits
Storage ottomans are multifunctional furniture pieces that improve a room's appearance and utility by providing hidden storage to minimize clutter.
They can be used as tables for placing drinks or decorative objects while storing items inside to keep the area neat.
These ottomans also offer extra seating without occupying as much space as traditional chairs, making them ideal for small spaces.
Their ability to serve various purposes, such as seating, a table, or storage, makes them a practical choice for maximizing space.
Additionally, storage ottomans come in different styles and finishes, allowing them to match different interior designs and adding to their popularity for those looking to improve their homes' look and practicality.
Maintenance and Care Tips
To keep an ottoman serving well as both a seat and a table, regular maintenance and correct cleaning are essential.
For leather ottomans, dust and vacuum regularly to avoid dirt build-up. Clean with a soft cloth and leather-specific cleaner, paying attention to creases. Do not use water on leather as it can cause stains, and quickly clean up any spills to avoid damage.
Tufted fabric ottomans require careful maintenance due to their complex design. Vacuum with an attachment to remove dust and debris from the tufts. For spills, blot the area instead of rubbing to prevent the liquid from penetrating deeper. Use appropriate fabric cleaners for any stains.
Protect the ottoman's surface with a tray or glass top when used as a table, to prevent spills and scratches.
These care tips will help maintain your ottoman's functionality and appearance for a long time.
