Ottoman as a Coffee Table: 12 Stylish Ways to Make It Work in Your Home

When it comes to versatile furniture, few pieces are as multifunctional as the ottoman. Traditionally thought of as a footrest, today’s designs have transformed the ottoman into a living room staple that can serve as extra seating, hidden storage, and even as a centrepiece for your coffee table styling. If you’ve been curious about using an ottoman as a coffee table, you’re in the right place.

The charm of this idea lies in its blend of comfort and style. Unlike a hard-top coffee table, an ottoman adds a softness and warmth that immediately makes a room feel more inviting. Whether you prefer something sleek and modern, tufted and elegant, or rustic and textured, there’s an ottoman to suit your space and elevate your living room design.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about styling and using an ottoman as a coffee table—from choosing the right shape to decorating it with trays, books, and accents. We’ll also explore practical considerations like storage, fabrics, and layout tips to ensure your ottoman works beautifully in your home.

1. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Choosing the Right Shape

The first step is deciding what shape will work best for your space. Rectangular ottomans mimic the traditional coffee table form, making them ideal for larger sofas or sectional seating. A round ottoman, on the other hand, softens the look of your room and works especially well in smaller spaces where sharp edges may feel overwhelming. Square ottomans are a good middle ground—compact yet offering plenty of surface area.

Think about the flow of your room before committing. Round and oval shapes encourage easier movement around the seating area, while rectangular ottomans anchor long sofas.

2. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: The Importance of Height

Getting the proportions right is crucial. Your ottoman should sit within 2–4 inches of the height of your sofa seat. Too high, and it feels awkward to rest your feet or place objects on it. Too low, and the ottoman loses its functionality as a practical surface.

Before purchasing, measure your sofa seat height and use this as your baseline. This small consideration ensures comfort and cohesion in your living space.

3. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Add a Tray for Stability

While ottomans provide comfort, their fabric or cushioned tops aren’t naturally suited for balancing drinks or food. The solution? A sturdy tray. Trays provide a flat, reliable surface and can double as a stylish accessory.

Opt for materials that contrast with the ottoman fabric—such as a rattan tray on a velvet ottoman or a mirrored tray on a leather ottoman. This contrast adds depth to your decor while maintaining practicality.

4. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Storage Potential

One of the biggest perks of choosing an ottoman is the hidden storage potential. Lift-top or hinged ottomans provide ample room for stashing throws, magazines, or board games, keeping your living space clutter-free.

If you’re working with a smaller living room, this is especially valuable. Storage ottomans help maximise space while doubling as a centrepiece.

5. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Styling with Books

Coffee table books aren’t just for coffee tables—they look just as chic on an ottoman. Layer two or three large-format books beneath a decorative object such as a candle, ceramic bowl, or small sculpture.

This creates a stylish focal point without overloading the ottoman. Remember to keep the arrangement flexible, so you can move items when you need the extra space.

6. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Balancing Decor and Function

An ottoman must remain functional. Avoid overcrowding it with accessories. A good rule of thumb is to decorate one side with a tray and leave the other side open for practical use. This ensures your ottoman doesn’t just look beautiful but also serves its intended purpose.

7. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Play with Textures

Since ottomans are upholstered, they add instant texture to your space. Lean into this by pairing materials thoughtfully. A linen ottoman paired with a wooden tray introduces natural, organic warmth. A velvet ottoman styled with brass accents brings a more glamorous feel.

Mix and match textures, but ensure they share a similar undertone—warm neutrals or cool greys, for example—to maintain cohesion.

8. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Double as Extra Seating

Don’t forget: your ottoman can also serve as extra seating when guests arrive. This makes it a truly multifunctional piece. If you plan to use it this way, keep decor minimal and easy to move.

Opting for a firmer cushion style makes the ottoman more comfortable to sit on. Larger rectangular or square ottomans are especially useful for this purpose.

9. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Layer with Throws

If you love a cosy look, try draping a lightweight throw over one corner of the ottoman. This adds softness and creates a layered, inviting atmosphere. Choose throws in contrasting colours or textures to make the ottoman stand out.

10. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Pairing with Sectionals

Ottomans work brilliantly with sectional sofas. A large rectangular ottoman can serve as a central hub, connecting all sides of the seating arrangement. This not only anchors the sectional but also adds balance to the layout.

11. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: Opt for Easy-Clean Fabrics

Since your ottoman will act as a coffee table, spills are inevitable. Fabrics like faux leather or treated performance fabrics are easier to clean, making them practical choices. If you prefer softer fabrics like velvet, keep a stain-resistant spray on hand.

12. Ottoman as a Coffee Table: When to Go Bold

Your ottoman doesn’t always have to blend in—it can also act as a statement piece. Consider a bold colour, pattern, or tufted design that stands out against a neutral sofa. This approach works particularly well if the rest of your room has a pared-back palette.

FAQs About Using an Ottoman as a Coffee Table

Q: Can an ottoman replace a coffee table entirely?A: Yes, as long as you incorporate a tray for stability. An ottoman can provide all the functionality of a coffee table with added comfort.

Q: What’s the best fabric for an ottoman used as a coffee table?A: Easy-clean fabrics like faux leather or tightly woven linen are ideal. If you choose velvet or wool, use a tray to protect the surface.

Q: Can ottomans work in small spaces?A: Absolutely. A compact ottoman can double as storage, a coffee table, and extra seating—all in one piece.

Create a Living Room You Love with BY Design And Viz

At BY Design And Viz, we specialise in helping you make the most of every piece in your home. From choosing the perfect ottoman as a coffee table to creating a cohesive living room layout, we’ll design a space that’s as functional as it is beautiful. Ready to elevate your home? Get in touch today to start your design journey.