The coffee table serves as the focal point, enhancing the aesthetic of the living room furniture set and providing a surface for drinks and decor. End tables, strategically positioned, offer extra convenience and balance within the space, complementing the central console table that provides storage and display options, tying the entire room together.
Hey there, design enthusiasts! Ever walked into a living room and felt like something was just right, but couldn’t quite put your finger on it? Chances are, it wasn’t the giant, plush sofa or the statement art piece. Nope. It might just be the humble, often-overlooked, living room table set.
Think of these tables as the glue that holds your living space together. They’re the silent champions of functionality and style. From holding your late-night snacks during a Netflix binge to showcasing your prized succulents, these tables work hard, day in and day out.
We aren’t talking about just a spot to dump your keys or a place to prop your feet. We’re talking about the coffee table that anchors your seating arrangement, the end table that perfectly balances your lamp, and the sofa table that adds a touch of elegance to your room. Each type of table plays a vital role in creating a space that’s not only beautiful but also practical. They are like the Swiss Army Knives of interior design, offering both aesthetic charm and everyday utility. When chosen wisely, they elevate the entire ambiance, making your living room more inviting, organized, and utterly you. So, yes! the living room set tables is the unsung hero of your living room.
Contents
- 1 Decoding the Different Types of Living Room Tables
- 2 Material Matters: Choosing the Right Surface for Your Needs
- 3 Finding Your Style: Matching Tables to Your Décor
- 4 Design Details: Unlocking the Nuances of Table Aesthetics
- 5 Accessorizing Your Tables: The Art of Styling
- 6 The Devil’s in the Details: Key Considerations Before You Buy
- 7 Functionality First: Maximizing the Use of Your Tables
- 8 Design Harmony: Applying Principles of Scale and Proportion – The Goldilocks Zone of Table Selection!
- 8.1 Scale & Proportion: Finding Your Table’s Soulmate
- 8.2 What are the standard dimensions for a living room coffee table, and how do these dimensions relate to seating arrangements?
- 8.3 How does the shape of a living room end table affect its functionality and placement within the room?
- 8.4 What materials are commonly used in the construction of living room console tables, and how do these materials impact durability and style?
- 8.5 How do nesting tables enhance the versatility of a living room furniture arrangement?
Decoding the Different Types of Living Room Tables
So, you’re on a mission to find the perfect living room table? Awesome! But hold up, before you dive headfirst into a furniture frenzy, let’s break down the wonderful world of living room tables. It’s not just about plopping down any old surface; it’s about finding the right piece that marries function and style, making your living room a place you actually want to hang out in. Let’s get to it:
Coffee Tables: The Heart of the Hangout
Think of the coffee table as the command center of your living room. It usually sits front and center of your sofa, and it’s got a big job to do. From holding your morning coffee (hence the name, duh!) to corralling books, remotes, and that bowl of popcorn for movie night, it’s a workhorse. They come in all shapes and sizes—round, square, rectangular, oval—so finding one that fits your space and style is key. Round ones are great for smaller spaces, rectangular are perfect for longer sofas, and square? Well, they’re just versatile all-stars.
End Tables (Side Tables): The Supportive Sidekicks
These little guys are the unsung heroes of the seating arrangement. Nestled beside sofas and chairs, end tables (or side tables) are prime real estate for lamps, remotes, and that half-finished glass of iced tea. Height is super important here! You want the tabletop to be about the same height as your sofa’s armrest so you don’t have to reach too far. Nobody wants to spill their drink trying to reach it!
Sofa Tables (Console Tables): The Behind-the-Scenes Beauties
Sofa tables, also known as console tables, are the long, lean beauties that often hang out behind sofas or against walls. They’re like the stagehands of the living room, providing extra surface area for displaying décor, lamps, or even creating a makeshift buffet during parties. If you have a sofa that’s floating in the middle of the room, a sofa table behind it can define the space and add a touch of elegance.
Cocktail Tables: The Entertainment Experts
Think of cocktail tables as coffee tables, but bigger and bolder. They’re built for entertaining, offering ample space for drinks, appetizers, and maybe even a game of cards. If you’re someone who loves hosting, a cocktail table is a must-have. Just make sure you have enough room to navigate around it!
Nesting Tables: The Space-Saving Superstars
Short on space? Nesting tables to the rescue! These clever contraptions stack together, saving precious square footage when you don’t need them, but easily pull apart when you need extra surface space. They’re like the chameleons of the table world, adapting to your needs on the fly.
Accent Tables: The Personality Pieces
Last but not least, we have accent tables. These are the tables that scream “look at me!” They’re all about adding visual interest and personality to your room with unique designs, materials, and finishes. Think of them as the jewelry of your living room. A pop of color, an interesting shape, or an unusual material can instantly elevate the entire space.
Material Matters: Choosing the Right Surface for Your Needs
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what these tables are actually made of. It’s not just about looks, folks! The material of your living room table can drastically affect its durability, how you care for it, and of course, the overall vibe of your space. Think of it like choosing the right ingredients for a recipe – you wouldn’t make a cake with motor oil, right? (Please don’t.)
Wood: The Timeless Classic
Ah, wood! The OG of furniture materials. Warm, inviting, and versatile, wood tables come in a dazzling array of options.
- Oak: This sturdy fella is known for its durability and prominent grain. Think classic, traditional, and built-to-last. Oak is like the dependable friend who always has your back (and your coffee).
- Maple: Maple offers a smoother, more uniform grain than oak, making it ideal for modern or contemporary spaces. It’s like the effortlessly cool friend who always looks put-together.
- Pine: Pine is the laid-back, budget-friendly option. It’s softer than other hardwoods, giving it a charming, slightly rustic feel. Pine is like the friend who’s always up for an adventure, even if it means roughing it a little.
- Walnut: Rich, dark, and luxurious, walnut exudes sophistication. It’s a pricier option, but its beautiful grain and color make it worth the splurge. Walnut is the friend with impeccable taste and a killer wardrobe.
Glass: Sleek and Chic
Want to add a touch of modern elegance? Glass tabletops are your answer!
- Tempered Glass: Don’t worry, it’s not the kind that shatters into a million pieces. Tempered glass is specially treated to be much stronger and safer. If it does break (unlikely), it’ll crumble into small, relatively harmless pieces.
- Smoked Glass: For a dash of mystery and intrigue, go for smoked glass. It adds a subtle tint that’s both stylish and practical, hiding fingerprints and smudges better than clear glass.
Just remember, glass requires a little TLC. Regular cleaning is a must to keep it sparkling.
Metal: Tough and Trendy
For an industrial or contemporary edge, metal is the way to go.
- Steel: Strong, durable, and often powder-coated for a sleek finish, steel is a popular choice for modern designs.
- Iron: Heavy and sturdy, iron adds a touch of rustic charm. It’s often used in wrought iron designs for a more traditional look.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and rust-resistant, aluminum is a great option for outdoor living spaces.
- Brass: Warm and luxurious, brass adds a touch of vintage glam. It’s often used as an accent material, but can also be used for entire frames for a bold statement.
Consider the finish! A matte finish will give a more understated look, while a glossy finish will add shine and reflect light.
Stone: Luxurious and Lasting
If you’re looking for a statement piece that will stand the test of time, stone is the answer.
- Marble: Elegant and timeless, marble adds a touch of luxury to any space. It’s heat-resistant and durable, but can be prone to staining, so be careful with spills.
- Granite: Tough as nails and resistant to scratches, granite is a practical choice for high-traffic areas.
- Slate: Unique and earthy, slate offers a more rustic alternative to marble and granite. It’s also heat-resistant and durable.
Keep in mind that stone tables can be quite heavy, so make sure your floor can handle the weight!
Veneer: Budget-Friendly Beauty
Want the look of real wood without breaking the bank? Veneer is your secret weapon! It’s a thin layer of real wood glued over a core material (like plywood or MDF). This allows you to enjoy the beauty of wood at a fraction of the cost. Just be aware that veneer is more susceptible to damage than solid wood, so handle it with care.
Finding Your Style: Matching Tables to Your Décor
So, you’re on the hunt for the perfect living room table? Awesome! But with so many choices out there, how do you even begin to narrow it down? Fear not, my friend, because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of design styles and find the table that’s practically begging to be in your living room. Think of this as a matchmaking service, but for furniture!
Modern: Sleek and Chic
Imagine a table that’s all about clean lines, a minimalist vibe, and functionality that doesn’t quit. That’s Modern in a nutshell. These tables often feature simple geometric shapes, neutral colors, and materials like glass, metal, and engineered wood. If your living room screams “less is more,” a modern table is your soulmate. It’s the kind of table that whispers, “I’m sophisticated, but I can still hold your coffee without complaining.”
Contemporary: Trendsetter Central
Now, Contemporary is like the cool cousin of Modern. It’s all about what’s hot right now, so it’s constantly evolving. Expect to see tables with unconventional shapes, mixed materials, and bold colors (or subtle, depending on the current trend!). Contemporary tables are for those who love to stay ahead of the curve and aren’t afraid to experiment. It’s the “let’s try this” of furniture.
Traditional: Classic Comfort
Ah, Traditional. Think of grand libraries, cozy fireplaces, and the feeling of being wrapped in a warm hug. Traditional tables are all about rich wood finishes, intricate carvings, and timeless elegance. You’ll often find them in darker woods like mahogany or cherry, with details like turned legs or decorative hardware. If your living room is a haven of classic comfort, a traditional table will fit right in. It’s the table that brings home the feeling of ‘Grandma’s house.’
Rustic: Nature’s Embrace
Do you dream of escaping to a cabin in the woods? A Rustic table can bring that vibe to your living room! These tables are all about natural, rough-hewn materials like reclaimed wood, stone, and metal. They often have a distressed finish and a sense of history. If your style is all about embracing nature and creating a cozy, inviting space, a rustic table is your jam.
Industrial: Urban Edge
Inspired by factories and warehouses, Industrial tables are all about raw materials, exposed hardware, and a no-nonsense attitude. Think metal frames, reclaimed wood tops, and a slightly gritty aesthetic. If your living room has exposed brick, concrete floors, or a generally edgy vibe, an industrial table will complete the look. This is ‘Bring the factory home’ table style.
Mid-Century Modern: Retro Revival
Picture the clean lines, tapered legs, and organic shapes of the 1950s and 60s. That’s Mid-Century Modern in a nutshell! These tables often feature walnut or teak wood, simple silhouettes, and a touch of retro charm. If your living room is all about Mad Men vibes and a love for all things vintage, a mid-century modern table will be the perfect finishing touch.
Design Details: Unlocking the Nuances of Table Aesthetics
Beyond just slapping down a surface, living room tables have a secret language. It’s spoken in the curves, the angles, the way it holds your remotes…Okay, maybe not a literal language, but definitely a design dialect. Let’s decode some of these design details, shall we? Because the difference between a “meh” living room and a “wow” living room is often in these subtle touches.
Geometric Shapes (Round, Square, Rectangular)
Shape Up! It’s not just geometry class anymore. The shape of your tabletop is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about flow, space, and how your room feels.
- Round: Have a smaller space? Round tables are your BFF. They promote flow, help avoid those nasty corner bumps, and generally make a room feel more open and sociable. Perfect for game night or just chilling out.
- Square: Square tables create a sense of balance and order. They work well in symmetrical spaces and can anchor a seating area nicely.
- Rectangular: The workhorse. Ideal for larger seating arrangements, where you need ample space for everyone to set down their snacks and drinks during movie night. They can be used to create a focal point or complement the architectural lines of a room.
Table Legs (Tapered, Straight, Cabriole)
Leg Day! It’s not just for the gym. Table legs are like the shoes of your furniture – they can totally change the outfit.
- Tapered: Sleek, modern, and slightly retro. Tapered legs offer a lightness and elegance, making them a great choice for mid-century modern or contemporary styles. They whisper, “I’m sophisticated,” without being stuffy.
- Straight: Simple, clean, and versatile. Straight legs are the jeans of the furniture world – they go with almost anything. They offer a minimalist aesthetic and are a solid choice for modern or Scandinavian-inspired spaces.
- Cabriole: Ooh la la! Cabriole legs are all about curves and elegance. These ornate legs are a nod to traditional styles, think French Provincial or Queen Anne. They add a touch of drama and sophistication to any room.
Storage (Drawers, Shelves)
Storage Solutions. Let’s be honest; we all have clutter. A table with built-in storage isn’t just functional; it’s a lifesaver.
- Drawers: Perfect for stashing remotes, coasters, or that secret stash of chocolate. Drawers keep things out of sight, out of mind, and help maintain a clean and organized space.
- Shelves: Shelves are great for displaying books, decorative items, or even storing blankets. They offer an opportunity to add personality to your table and keep frequently used items within easy reach.
Tabletop Finishes (Painted, Stained, Natural)
Finishing Touches. The finish is the makeup of your table. It sets the tone and protects the surface from the ravages of daily life.
- Painted: Offers endless possibilities for color and style. A painted finish can add a pop of color, complement a room’s palette, or create a fun, whimsical vibe. Great for eclectic or cottage-style spaces.
- Stained: Showcases the natural beauty of the wood grain. A stained finish enhances the wood’s texture and adds warmth and richness to a room. Perfect for traditional, rustic, or farmhouse-style spaces.
- Natural: Raw, authentic, and undeniably chic. A natural finish celebrates the raw beauty of the material, showcasing its unique characteristics and imperfections. It can create a relaxed, organic vibe and works well in minimalist or bohemian-inspired spaces.
Accessorizing Your Tables: The Art of Styling
Okay, so you’ve got your perfect living room table. Now what? Don’t let it sit there looking lonely! It’s time to unleash your inner interior designer and give that table some personality. Think of your table as a blank canvas, ready to be transformed into a stylish masterpiece. This is where the fun really begins! Let’s dive into the art of accessorizing, shall we?
Coffee Table Books: More Than Just Page Turners
Forget dusty old encyclopedias! We’re talking about coffee table books that are actually interesting (and look good, too!). Think visually stunning photography books, biographies of fascinating people, or even art books showcasing your favorite artists. The key is to choose books with eye-catching covers and topics that spark conversation. Stack them neatly, or arrange them in a slightly off-kilter way for a more relaxed vibe. The goal is to add some intellectual flair without making it look like you’re trying too hard.
Trays: The Unsung Heroes of Tabletop Decor
Trays are like the Swiss Army knives of the decorating world – totally practical and stylish. Use them to corral remote controls (no more couch diving!), hold drinks (say goodbye to water rings!), or display a collection of smaller decorative items. Choose a tray that complements your table’s style and material. A sleek metal tray looks great on a modern glass table, while a woven tray adds warmth to a rustic wooden one. A tray keeps things from looking cluttered, and makes it easy to clear things off quickly when guests arrive.
Decorative Objects: Let Your Personality Shine
This is where you can really let your personal style shine! Vases, sculptures, candles, small plants – the possibilities are endless. Mix and match different textures, shapes, and colors to create a visually interesting display. A tall vase with fresh flowers adds a touch of elegance, while a quirky sculpture injects some personality. Don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun with it! Think about varying heights and arranging objects in odd numbers (three or five) for a balanced, pleasing look. And remember, the best decorative objects are the ones that tell a story about you.
The Devil’s in the Details: Key Considerations Before You Buy
Alright, you’re almost there! You’ve got the vision, the style, and the inspiration. But before you click that “add to cart” button, let’s pump the brakes for a sec. Choosing the right living room tables is about more than just pretty legs and shiny surfaces. It’s about making smart decisions that will make your life easier and your living room a more enjoyable place to be. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details that can make or break your table-buying experience.
Size & Dimensions: Measure Twice, Order Once!
This one seems obvious, but trust me, it’s where most people go wrong. You might think that coffee table looks great online, but will it actually fit in your space without making you feel like you’re navigating an obstacle course? Grab that tape measure and get friendly with it!
- Measure the available space in your living room, considering the placement of your sofa, chairs, and any walkways.
- Think about traffic flow. You don’t want your coffee table to become a shin-bruising hazard! Leave enough room to move around comfortably.
- Consider the size of your seating. A giant sectional sofa needs a larger coffee table, while a loveseat might be better suited to something smaller and more delicate.
Height: Getting on the Right Level
Table height is crucial for comfort and usability. Imagine reaching for your drink on a coffee table that’s way too low – not exactly a relaxing experience, right?
- Coffee tables should generally be about the same height as your sofa cushions or slightly lower.
- End tables should be level with the armrests of your sofa or chairs.
- Sofa tables that sit behind your sofa should be about the same height as the back of your sofa, or a few inches lower.
Getting the height right will make your life so much easier!
Shape: Square Peg, Round Hole?
The shape of your table can influence the whole vibe of your living room.
- Round tables can soften a space and make it feel more welcoming, especially in smaller rooms. They’re also great for avoiding sharp corners!
- Square or rectangular tables work well with larger seating arrangements and can provide more surface area. They also create a more structured and formal look.
- Oval tables offer a compromise between round and rectangular, providing a soft look with ample surface area.
Think about how the shape of your table will complement the other furniture in your room. If you have a lot of angular pieces, a round table can help soften the overall look.
Weight Capacity: Don’t Break the Bank (or the Table!)
Before you load up your new coffee table with all your favorite books and decorative items, make sure it can actually handle the weight. Check the manufacturer’s specifications for the table’s weight capacity.
- Consider what you plan to put on the table. Heavy vases, stacks of books, or even just a few remotes can add up quickly.
- Don’t overload your table! It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Durability: Built to Last
Nobody wants to replace their living room tables every year. Choosing durable materials and construction is key to longevity.
- Wood: Look for hardwoods like oak, maple, or walnut. Avoid softwoods like pine if you’re looking for something that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
- Metal: Steel and iron are incredibly durable and can withstand a lot of abuse.
- Construction: Check the joints and connections to make sure they’re solid and well-made. Avoid tables with flimsy legs or wobbly surfaces.
Maintenance: Keeping it Clean
Different materials require different levels of maintenance.
- Wood: Requires dusting and occasional polishing. Protect from spills and scratches.
- Glass: Shows fingerprints and smudges easily. Use a glass cleaner regularly.
- Metal: Can be prone to rust or corrosion. Clean regularly with a damp cloth.
- Stone: Requires sealing to protect from stains.
Consider how much time and effort you’re willing to put into cleaning and maintaining your new tables.
Functionality First: Maximizing the Use of Your Tables
Alright, let’s get real. Living room tables? They’re not just pretty faces, you know. They’re the unsung heroes of functionality, pulling double-duty as both stylish accents and seriously practical surfaces. So, ditch the idea that they’re just there to look good, because these babies are ready to work.
Quench That Thirst (and Hunger!): Drinks and Snacks Ahoy!
Let’s be honest, one of the primary functions of any living room table is to be the landing zone for your beverages and nibbles. Movie night? Game day? Book club? Your table is there to catch that sweating glass of iced tea or that bowl of popcorn before it makes a run for the carpet. Think about it – you’ll want something that can handle the occasional spill (because, let’s face it, accidents happen!) and is easy to wipe down. Nobody wants a coffee table that requires a hazmat suit to clean. Look for surfaces with a *protective finish* or materials like laminate or sealed wood that can withstand the inevitable.
Show Off Your Treasures: Displaying Decorative Items
Okay, okay, so maybe they are a little bit about looks! Living room tables are prime real estate for showing off your personality. They’re the perfect stage for displaying those travel souvenirs, that quirky vase your aunt gave you (the one you secretly love), or even just a stack of artfully arranged magazines. Think of your table as a mini-gallery where you can create a focal point that reflects your style. Just remember, a little goes a long way – don’t overcrowd it! Leave some breathing room, and let each item shine.
Lost in a Good Book (or Three!): Creating a Reading Nook
Calling all bookworms! Your living room table can be your literary lifeline. Whether it’s holding your current read, a stack of back issues of your favorite magazine, or just a cozy lamp, a well-placed table can transform your sofa into the perfect reading nook. Imagine sinking into your couch with a warm drink, the soft glow of a lamp, and your trusty table by your side, ready to hold everything you need for a perfect reading session.
Conquer the Clutter: Embrace the Power of Storage
And finally, the ultimate functionality superpower: storage! Tables with drawers or shelves are a game-changer for organizing your living space. Hide away remotes, magazines, board games, or even that emergency stash of chocolate (we won’t judge!). A little clever storage can make a huge difference in keeping your living room clutter-free and feeling calm and inviting. So, before you buy, think about what you need to store away and choose a table that can handle the job.
Design Harmony: Applying Principles of Scale and Proportion – The Goldilocks Zone of Table Selection!
Ever walked into a living room and felt like something was just off, but couldn’t quite put your finger on it? Chances are, the culprit might be a case of disharmony with the table size. It’s like Goldilocks and the Three Bears – too big, and the room feels cramped; too small, and it looks like a tiny island in a sea of furniture. Finding that just right size is crucial for a visually balanced and pleasing living room.
Scale & Proportion: Finding Your Table’s Soulmate
Here’s the deal: scale refers to the size of an object in relation to its surroundings, while proportion is the relationship between the sizes of different parts within a whole. In the living room context, you’ve got to consider the relationship between your table and everything else: the sofa, chairs, rugs, and even the overall dimensions of the room itself.
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The Sofa Saga: Your coffee table shouldn’t be dwarfed by your massive sectional, nor should it overpower a dainty loveseat. A general rule of thumb is to choose a coffee table that’s about two-thirds the length of your sofa. For end tables, aim for something close to the arm height of your seating, so reaching for that cup of joe doesn’t require Olympic-level contortion.
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Room to Roam: A giant coffee table might look gorgeous in a showroom, but if it leaves you squeezing past to get to the other side of the room, it’s a no-go. Consider the traffic flow. You want enough space to comfortably navigate around the furniture. Nobody wants a shin-bashing hazard!
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Too Big? Too Small? Imagine a tiny coffee table huddled in front of a sprawling sofa. It looks lost, doesn’t it? On the flip side, a behemoth of a table will visually shrink your space and make everything feel cramped. Strike a balance!
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Visual Weight: A table’s visual weight considers not just its size, but also its color, material, and design. A dark, solid wood table will “weigh” more visually than a glass-topped table with slender metal legs. If your room is already filled with heavy pieces, opt for a lighter, more open table design to keep things airy.
Getting the scale and proportion right is like finding the perfect harmony in a song – it just feels good. So, before you click that “add to cart” button, take a step back, assess your living room layout, and choose a table that’s perfectly in sync with its surroundings. Your living room will thank you for it!
What are the standard dimensions for a living room coffee table, and how do these dimensions relate to seating arrangements?
A standard coffee table features a height that measures 16 to 18 inches. This height allows easy access from a seated position. The length of a coffee table corresponds to approximately two-thirds of the sofa’s length. This proportion ensures visual balance in the living room. The width typically ranges from 22 to 30 inches. This range provides sufficient surface area without overwhelming the space. Seating arrangements influence the table’s placement. A distance of 12 to 18 inches separates the table from the sofa. This separation offers legroom. The table’s size accommodates the number of seats. Larger seating areas benefit from larger tables.
How does the shape of a living room end table affect its functionality and placement within the room?
The shape of an end table influences its functional use. Round end tables offer a softer aesthetic. They work well in tight spaces due to their lack of corners. Square end tables provide a stable surface. They suit rooms with linear designs. Rectangular end tables maximize surface area. They fit well beside sofas with straight arms. Placement depends on the table’s shape. Round tables fit well in corners. Square tables align with the edges of furniture. The shape complements the room’s overall design.
What materials are commonly used in the construction of living room console tables, and how do these materials impact durability and style?
Wood serves as a common material for console tables. It provides durability and a classic look. Metal adds a modern touch. It offers strength and sleek lines. Glass creates an open feel. It lacks the durability of wood or metal. The material affects the table’s style. Wood tables suit traditional decor. Metal tables complement contemporary designs. Durability depends on the specific material. Solid wood ensures longevity. Tempered glass increases safety.
How do nesting tables enhance the versatility of a living room furniture arrangement?
Nesting tables provide flexible surface space. They consist of multiple tables of varying sizes. These tables store compactly when not in use. They expand to offer more surface area when needed. This adaptability enhances the functionality of a living room. The tables accommodate various activities. They serve as temporary workstations. They function as display areas. Nesting tables optimize space. They suit small living rooms.
So, whether you’re after a spot for your coffee, a stage for your succulents, or just a good-looking anchor for your living room, choosing the right set table can really tie the room together. Happy hunting, and may your living room always be ready for a cozy night in!