Are you tired of hunching over your coffee table, struggling to find a comfortable position while enjoying your morning coffee or evening conversations? Do you wish you had a bit more legroom or a higher surface to display your favorite decorative pieces? If so, you’re not alone. Many of us have coffee tables that are just a bit too low, making it difficult to relax and socialize in our living rooms. Fortunately, there are many creative solutions to make your coffee table taller, and we’ll explore them in this article.
Why You Might Want to Make Your Coffee Table Taller
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s talk about why you might want to make your coffee table taller in the first place. Here are a few reasons:
- Improved ergonomics: A taller coffee table can help you maintain better posture while sitting, reducing strain on your back and neck.
- Increased legroom: If you have a large or bulky coffee table, making it taller can give you more space to stretch out your legs and get comfortable.
- Enhanced display capabilities: A higher coffee table can provide more surface area for displaying decorative items, such as vases, sculptures, or photo albums.
- Better conversation flow: When everyone is sitting at a comfortable height, conversations can flow more easily, and social interactions can become more enjoyable.
Assessing Your Coffee Table’s Height
Before you start making any changes, it’s essential to assess your coffee table’s current height and determine how much taller you want it to be. Here are a few things to consider:
- Measure the height: Use a tape measure to determine the current height of your coffee table. Standard coffee table heights range from 15 to 18 inches (38 to 46 cm).
- Consider the room’s scale: Think about the overall scale of your living room and the height of the surrounding furniture. You want your coffee table to be proportional to the other pieces in the room.
- Think about your needs: Consider how you use your coffee table and what you need it to be able to do. If you like to eat or work at your coffee table, you may want it to be taller than if you only use it for display.
Temporary Solutions
If you’re not ready to commit to a permanent solution or if you’re renting your home, there are several temporary solutions you can use to make your coffee table taller. Here are a few ideas:
- Furniture risers: Furniture risers are small, adjustable blocks that can be placed under the legs of your coffee table to raise it up. They’re available at most home goods stores and can be adjusted to different heights.
- Books or boxes: If you need a quick fix, you can try placing books or boxes under the legs of your coffee table to raise it up. This solution is not ideal, as it can be unstable and may damage your table or floor.
Permanent Solutions
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, there are several options you can consider. Here are a few ideas:
Adding Casters or Legs
One way to make your coffee table taller is to add casters or legs to the existing frame. This can be a bit more involved, as you’ll need to attach the new legs or casters to the table, but it can be a cost-effective solution.
- Casters: Casters are wheels that can be attached to the legs of your coffee table, allowing you to move it easily and raise it up. They’re available in different sizes and styles, so you can choose the ones that fit your table and decor.
- Legs: If you prefer a more traditional look, you can try adding legs to your coffee table. This can be a bit more involved, as you’ll need to attach the legs to the table frame, but it can be a great way to add height and stability.
Using a Coffee Table Riser
A coffee table riser is a platform or base that can be placed under your existing coffee table to raise it up. These risers are available in different materials, such as wood or metal, and can be adjusted to different heights.
- Wooden risers: Wooden risers are a popular choice, as they can be stained or painted to match your existing furniture. They’re also relatively easy to install, as they simply need to be placed under the legs of your coffee table.
- Metal risers: Metal risers are another option, offering a sleek and modern look. They’re often adjustable, so you can customize the height to fit your needs.
Building a New Coffee Table
If you’re feeling handy or want a completely custom solution, you can try building a new coffee table from scratch. This can be a fun and rewarding project, allowing you to create a piece of furniture that perfectly fits your needs and decor.
- Choose the right materials: When building a new coffee table, you’ll need to choose the right materials. Consider the style and decor of your living room, as well as the height and size you need.
- Design the table: Once you have your materials, you can start designing your coffee table. Think about the shape, size, and features you want, such as storage or a lift-top.
DIY Projects to Make Your Coffee Table Taller
If you’re looking for a fun and creative way to make your coffee table taller, consider trying a DIY project. Here are a few ideas:
Upcycled Crate Coffee Table
One creative way to make your coffee table taller is to use upcycled crates. Simply stack the crates on top of each other, add a wooden top, and you have a unique and functional coffee table.
- Gather materials: You’ll need several crates, a wooden top, and some screws or nails to assemble the table.
- Assemble the table: Stack the crates on top of each other, making sure they’re stable and secure. Attach the wooden top to the crates using screws or nails.
Pallet Coffee Table
Another DIY project is to use pallets to create a coffee table. Simply disassemble the pallets, cut them to size, and reassemble them into a table shape.
- Gather materials: You’ll need several pallets, a saw, and some screws or nails to assemble the table.
- Disassemble the pallets: Take apart the pallets, removing any nails or screws.
- Cut the pallets: Cut the pallets to size, making sure they’re the right height and width for your coffee table.
- Assemble the table: Reassemble the pallets into a table shape, using screws or nails to secure them together.
Conclusion
Making your coffee table taller can be a simple and effective way to improve the functionality and comfort of your living room. Whether you choose a temporary solution, such as furniture risers or books, or a more permanent solution, such as adding casters or legs, there are many creative ways to give your coffee table a boost. By assessing your coffee table’s height, considering your needs, and exploring different solutions, you can create a comfortable and functional space that’s perfect for relaxing and socializing.
What are the benefits of making my coffee table taller?
Making your coffee table taller can have several benefits. For one, it can improve the overall aesthetic of your living room by creating a more balanced and harmonious look. A taller coffee table can also make it easier to place drinks and snacks within reach, reducing the need to bend or stretch. Additionally, a taller coffee table can provide more surface area for displaying decorative items or storing books and magazines.
By elevating your coffee table, you can also create a more comfortable seating arrangement. A taller coffee table can help to create a sense of separation between the seating area and the rest of the room, making it feel more intimate and cozy. Furthermore, a taller coffee table can be especially beneficial for people who have mobility issues or back problems, as it can reduce the need to bend or strain.
What are some creative ways to make my coffee table taller?
There are several creative ways to make your coffee table taller. One option is to use risers or blocks, which can be placed under the legs of the table to elevate it. You can also use storage cubes or baskets to create a stacked look, adding height and storage to your coffee table. Another option is to use a coffee table lift, which is a device that can be placed under the table to raise it to a desired height.
Another creative solution is to use a tray or a plank to create a raised surface on top of your existing coffee table. This can be a great way to add height and create a more defined surface area for displaying decorative items or serving drinks and snacks. You can also use a combination of these methods to create a unique and functional coffee table that meets your needs and style.
What materials can I use to make my coffee table taller?
There are several materials you can use to make your coffee table taller, depending on the look and feel you want to achieve. Wood is a popular option, as it can add a natural and rustic touch to your coffee table. You can use wooden blocks, planks, or crates to create a raised surface or add height to your coffee table. Metal is another option, which can add a modern and industrial touch to your coffee table.
You can also use glass or acrylic to create a raised surface or add height to your coffee table. This can be a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your living room. Additionally, you can use storage bins or baskets made of wicker or rattan to add height and storage to your coffee table. The material you choose will depend on your personal style and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
How do I choose the right height for my coffee table?
Choosing the right height for your coffee table depends on several factors, including the height of your seating, the style of your living room, and your personal preference. A general rule of thumb is to choose a height that is between 15 and 20 inches above the floor. This will create a comfortable and functional surface area for placing drinks and snacks.
However, the right height for your coffee table will also depend on the height of your seating. If you have a low-seating sofa or armchair, you may want to choose a lower height for your coffee table. On the other hand, if you have a high-seating sofa or armchair, you may want to choose a higher height for your coffee table. Ultimately, the right height will depend on your personal preference and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve.
Can I make my coffee table taller without damaging it?
Yes, it is possible to make your coffee table taller without damaging it. One way to do this is to use risers or blocks that are specifically designed for elevating furniture. These risers are typically made of a soft material that won’t scratch or damage the surface of your coffee table. You can also use felt pads or rubber feet to protect the surface of your coffee table from scratches or damage.
Another way to make your coffee table taller without damaging it is to use a coffee table lift. This is a device that is specifically designed to elevate coffee tables without damaging them. It works by placing the lift under the legs of the table and raising it to a desired height. This is a great option if you want to make your coffee table taller without damaging it or compromising its stability.
Are there any safety considerations I should keep in mind when making my coffee table taller?
Yes, there are several safety considerations you should keep in mind when making your coffee table taller. One of the most important things to consider is the stability of the table. Make sure that the table is stable and secure, and that it won’t tip over or collapse. You should also make sure that the surface area of the table is level and even, to prevent items from sliding or falling off.
Another safety consideration is the height of the table. Make sure that the table is not too high, as this can create a tripping hazard or make it difficult to access. You should also make sure that the table is not too low, as this can create a bending or straining hazard. Ultimately, the safety of your coffee table will depend on the design and construction of the table, as well as the materials and methods used to make it taller.