Ottomans vs. Coffee Tables: A Cozy Debate on Form and Function

Published: January 30, 2024

Updated: January 2, 2024

A home should be a sanctuary where you can kick back, relax, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. That said, it is important to purchase furniture that makes relaxation and socialization possible. Coffee tables and ottomans are known for their looks and functionality, but is one more useful than the other? Our dedicated readers and interior designers have generously shared their input on how both furniture pieces have integrated into their homes, along with their strengths and weaknesses.

Here at Soul and Lane, we are a tad partial to the functionality and style of an ottoman. According to our founder Zakhar Ivanisov, “In a smaller room, an ottoman can be a real space saver. It combines the best of both worlds: a coffee table when you need one and extra seating for guests when you don’t. Plus, many come with built-in storage, giving you a secret spot to stash blankets, magazines, and a TV remote.” We hope you agree!

01 of Love a Combo

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“I loved having an ottoman/coffee table!” our reader, Lynette exclaims. “We use it for propping feet up, holding beverages on a tray, and playing games.” If you’re having difficulty deciding between both styles, search for something like this that has a bottom shelf but a top with a nice tufted cushion. It’s the best of both worlds!

Interior designer Ellen Matthews offers her take on the debate. “Ottomans are typically softer and more comfortable than coffee tables, making them a great place to put your feet up or sit down for extra seating,” Matthews advises. “Ottomans can look less formal than coffee tables, so they may not be a good choice for a formal living room,” she notes.

02 of Leather Instead of Cloth

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There is a hot debate regarding ottoman fabric, which is typically used for resting feet, holding beverages, and more. Homeowner Allison, who has experience with a cloth ottoman, explains that she regrets not selecting leather instead. Overall, leather is more protective of stains and scuffs, in addition to being timeless.

03 of Ottoman and Coffee Table Together

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Having a tough time deciding between an ottoman or a coffee table? How about centering both between a low-sitting sectional for ease and style? The petite two-tone coffee table shown is perfect for drinks, books, and other decorations while not sacrificing precious foot-propping space. A soft-sided ottoman in a cool gray has that taken care of effortlessly.

04 of Great Accent Pieces

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This whimsical and bright living room is transformed with colorful blue ottomans atop a pink and blue abstract rug. Stylish statement pieces like these may make you wonder if you’re sacrificing potential table space by opting for an ottoman. ‘We use our end tables for drinks,” explains reader Laura, who agrees that footrests are a necessary comfort.

05 of Ottoman With a Sectional

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Sectionals are unique because of how they wrap around a space, including other furniture. Between coffee tables and ottomans, homeowner Mary believes that “ottomans make the room more cozy.” It feels very natural to gently kick your legs up on a squishy cushion without the inconvenience of finding a pillow to place on a hard surface for the same result.

06 of Additional Seating

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Not only are ottomans great as footrests, but they also provide additional seating in small living or family rooms. The sectional displayed here is petite, with one cushion beside a chaise. When guests are over, you can quickly push the ottoman to the side and create additional seating when necessary. It’s a perfect tiny-living hack for apartments or condos with limited square footage.

Interior desginer Neha Kaimal agrees, noting “This choice complements the aesthetics of smaller contemporary homes, enhancing the overall modern vibe of the space.”

07 of Great Multi-purpose Piece

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Sometimes interior design is all about functionality, which is undoubtedly a priority for Heather. “I love that you can turn an ottoman like this into a coffee table if needed!” We appreciate the versatility of this popular furniture piece. Whether you’re looking to include a drink tray or a vase of flowers, there are endless ideas for how an ottoman can be used, as they are truly multifaceted.

08 of Adds Texture and Patterns

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In place of a solid fabric, there is a great deal of benefit to an ottoman with an interesting texture or pattern. They’re relatively easy to get re-covered if the fabric wears out, and according to designer Gail, they often have inside storage as an added bonus. A simple pinstripe pattern is a sophisticated choice beside a solid beige sofa, and baskets work as great drink holders.

09 of Safety Considerations

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Have you ever had little kids running around and worried about little noggins bumping sharp corners? That dilemma is completely solved by using an ottoman instead of a traditional coffee table. Take this room, for example. Two white and brown lounge chairs are completely transformed beside a navy ottoman that functions as a table surface when necessary, but it is safe for wobbly and falling bodies.

10 of Perfect Storage Containers

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No matter how large a home is, it can never have enough storage compartments. That is where ottomans come in handy because many of them open to reveal an open space for blankets, books, or electronics. As living rooms are not always equipped with closets, shelves, or cubbies, this little furniture hack can be quite successful and efficient in keeping a room tidy.

11 of Avoid in Heavily Used Rooms

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Little fingers are so good at adding a layer of dirt and goo to most soft surfaces. As such, Mom Lauren explains she would not place it in an ottoman “in a heavily used room where you have young children.” Fabrics are so susceptible to irremovable stains, so if you select an ottoman in a light material, make sure you have picked something durable with a warranty and have a fantastic stain remover on hand at all times.

12 of “I Hate It”

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A potentially unpopular opinion but still equally as valid, our contributor Olivia boldly states, “I hate my ottoman. I just have a big piece of plywood on it because I can’t find a tray stable enough that I like.” The cushion shape will play a significant role in the stability of an ottoman top, as is the fabric. Generally speaking, avoid anything with tufts like the image shows, and selecting a larger tray made of a sturdy material to balance in the center will reap the benefits of a successful multi-purpose piece.