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Soft edges, fluid shapes and cocooning forms are on the rise.
Demand for furniture with soft edges, fluid shapes and cocooning forms is on the rise – starting with the pièce de résistance of our living rooms: the coffee table.
Moving away from harsh lines and single shapes, these soft, tactile pieces are perfect for adding dimension and depth to a room, all while evoking a sense of calm ('taking the edge off', shall we say). And it's not just coffee tables: from curved sofas to rounded side tables, we're seeing this design trend entering all parts of the home.
'We've seen curves, archways and more fluid forms coming through at design shows for the past few years, but this trend is now really starting to build momentum in people’s homes, especially in living spaces,' says Lauren Zeng, design expert from Homary.
Anything that has some form of curved edge can be classed as a curved coffee table – in fact, they take on many names. Look out for (or try a quick Google search of): abstract, pond, kidney, wiggle or organically-shaped coffee tables.
Coffee tables can also be a great way to add discrete storage to your room. Consider curved coffee tables with integrated drawers, a lift-up lid or a handy shelf underneath for a practical option. Nesting designs, like La Redoute's Nova set, also combine functionality and flexibility, providing extra surface area that can be neatly tucked away when not in use.
Curved coffee tables are not only popular for how they look – they also play a crucial role in redefining spatial dynamics.
'Coffee tables with curved edges take up less space, creating a sense of openness, and therefore make the room appear bigger than it actually is,' says Lauren. 'The flexibility of these designs allows for better utilisation of space, challenging the limitations imposed by straight-edged alternatives.'
Coffee tables are a great way to tie your whole room together or create a focal point in the space. So, when it comes to choosing the perfect material, think about whether you want it to complement your existing scheme or make a statement.
'Wood is a popular choice for curved coffee tables, largely due to its durability and easily adaptable style. On the other hand, round stone tables, like the Botello table, are ideal for bringing a striking look and adding contrast to muted carpets and wooden floors,' says Sarah Link, head of marketing at La Redoute.
In terms of colour, clean whites and soft beiges go hand in hand with curved coffee tables as they resonate with the soft, light feel that curves offer. However, Sarah mentions that while neutrals are popular, combining curves with pops of colour is effective in introducing contrast and adding depth to a space.
From coffee tables with curved cane edges to punchy pink pond tables, keep reading to discover our editor's top picks.
Made from solid mango wood, Dunelm's Ludo coffee table looks much more expensive than its high street price tag would suggest. It takes on a smooth cocooning form with its rounded edges and curved legs, adding an air of quiet luxury to any space it lives in.
| Size | H40 x W120 x D68.5cm |
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Here's a low, three-cornered option that looks great from every angle. The solid walnut top combined with gently tapered legs gives it a subtle retro (and very high-end) feel.
| Size | L111 x H39 x D112.5cm |
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There's something quite nostalgic about Dunelm's Zullo coffee table. Looking to the 70s for inspiration, it has slightly curved edges and a tempered glass finish for a quirky retro look.
| Size | H43cm x W100cm x D50cm |
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Heralding the dark wood trend we're seeing everywhere at the moment, the Xylo is a highly distinctive piece – especially when you consider the £160 price tag. Sporting a pebble-shaped top and statement wide legs, it looks fabulous when paired with matching walnut-stained pieces.
| Size | H39.5 x W110 x D52cm |
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With its acacia wood construction and curved, retro-inspired silhouette, this unique number from Anthropologie is another favourite of ours. The open frame allows for endless coffee table book styling.
| Size | H71 x W140 x D46cm |
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We can always rely on Barker and Stonehouse to deliver design-led pieces that stand the test of time – as proven here by the Zuberi coffee table. It combines various geometric shapes with sturdy mango wood for a striking yet timeless look.
| Size | H38 x W120 x D60cm |
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This isn't the first time we've seen cloud-shaped furniture in interiors and we're sure it won't be the last. Recreating the look of clouds at home creates a dreamlike space that takes you away from reality – and this unique piece will do just that. Pair with light colours and soft boucle textures for a calming space.
| Size | H40.5 x W67.5 x D100cm |
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