Have you ever looked at your coffee table and thought it could do more? Maybe it’s taking up space and not serving its full potential. Turning that table into an ottoman can give your living room a fresh look while adding extra comfort and functionality.
Key Takeaways
- Understand Functionality Differences: Coffee tables primarily serve as display surfaces, while ottomans focus on comfort and versatility, offering extra seating or storage options.
- Benefits of Conversion: Transforming a coffee table into an ottoman enhances comfort and aesthetics, creating a cozy space that elevates your living area’s visual appeal.
- Selection Process: Choose a sturdy coffee table that complements your decor and has rounded edges for safety, ensuring the height aligns with your seating for optimal use.
- Essential Materials: Use thick foam, durable upholstery fabric, adhesive spray, a staple gun, and scissors to effectively convert your coffee table into an ottoman.
- Step-by-Step Transformation: Follow a structured process that includes measuring, cutting, attaching foam and fabric, and securing everything neatly for a polished finish.
- Styling Tips: Enhance your new ottoman by selecting the right fabric and accessorizing with trays, books, and decorative pillows to reflect your personal style.
Overview of Coffee Tables and Ottomans
Coffee tables serve as central pieces in living rooms, combining functionality and style. They provide a surface for placing drinks, books, or decorative items. Their height typically spans between 16 to 18 inches, making them convenient for use with sofas and chairs.
Ottomans, on the other hand, offer versatility. They can function as footrests, extra seating, or even as storage solutions. Their height generally matches or is slightly lower than coffee tables, around 14 to 18 inches. This feature makes them suitable for lounging and relaxing.
Transforming a coffee table into an ottoman creates a space that encourages comfort. Many coffee tables have surfaces that can easily accommodate cushion materials. Adding tufted fabric or foam can elevate the table, providing a soft place to rest your feet while maintaining the original table function.
- Functionality: Coffee tables focus on serving as display or holding items, while ottomans prioritize comfort.
- Design: Coffee tables often feature hard surfaces made from wood, glass, or metal. Ottomans usually have soft, plush exteriors.
- Storage: Many coffee tables include shelves or drawers. Ottomans may contain hidden storage for blankets or magazines.
By understanding these aspects, you can more easily decide how to convert your coffee table into a stylish ottoman.
Benefits of Converting a Coffee Table into an Ottoman
Transforming a coffee table into an ottoman brings several advantages, enhancing both comfort and aesthetics in your living space.
Improved Comfort
Increased comfort is a primary benefit. An ottoman provides a soft surface for resting your feet or lounging. You gain a cozy spot that encourages relaxation after a long day. If you convert a coffee table into an ottoman, you enhance the overall comfort level of your seating area. You’ll find it easier to kick back and enjoy your time spent in the room, making social gatherings, movie nights, or quiet moments more enjoyable.
Enhanced Aesthetics
Converting a coffee table into an ottoman elevates the visual appeal of your living room. Ottomans transform a standard table into a stylish statement piece. You can choose fabrics that complement your existing decor, such as velvet for a touch of luxury or leather for a modern look. This change adds depth and texture, making the space feel more inviting. Additionally, an ottoman can tie together color schemes or themes in your furnishings, providing a cohesive design.
Steps to Turn a Coffee Table into an Ottoman
Transforming a coffee table into an ottoman involves specific steps. Follow these guidelines to create a functional and stylish piece of furniture.
Selecting the Right Coffee Table
Choose a coffee table that complements your decor and meets specific criteria. Opt for a table with a sturdy structure and enough surface area to serve your needs. Look for tables with rounded edges for safety reasons, especially if you have children or pets. Ensure the height is appropriate; the ideal height for an ottoman typically aligns with your sofa or seating area.
Materials Needed for the Transformation
Gather the following materials for a successful conversion:
- Foam padding: Choose thick foam to create a comfortable surface.
- Fabric: Pick upholstery fabric that matches your decor. Strong and durable materials like cotton, linen, or velvet work well.
- Adhesive spray or fabric glue: Use a reliable glue to attach the foam to the table surface.
- Staple gun: Handy for attaching fabric securely around the foam.
- Scissors: Necessary for cutting foam and fabric to size.
- Remove Top Surface Items: Clear the coffee table of all items, including decorations and coasters.
- Measure Dimensions: Take measurements of the table’s top to determine the size of foam and fabric needed.
- Cut Foam and Fabric: Cut the foam to fit the tabletop. Add a few inches on each side for wrapping. Cut the fabric using the foam measurements, adding extra for folds.
- Attach Foam: Spray adhesive on the table’s surface and press the foam down firmly, ensuring even placement.
- Wrap Fabric: Lay the fabric over the foam. Pull it tightly around the foam and table edges, ensuring no wrinkles appear.
- Secure Fabric: Use a staple gun to attach the fabric to the underside of the table. Make sure to staple evenly along the edges for a neat finish.
- Finishing Touches: Trim excess fabric and check for any loose areas. Ensure the ottoman is securely covered and stable for use.
By following these steps, you can efficiently turn your coffee table into a stylish ottoman that enhances your living space.
Styling Your New Ottoman
Styling your new ottoman enhances its functionality and complements your living space. This section covers choosing the right fabric and accessorizing your ottoman.
Choosing the Perfect Fabric
Choosing the right fabric is essential for creating a stylish ottoan. Consider these factors:
- Durability: Choose a fabric that withstands everyday wear, especially if you use the ottoman for seating.
- Texture: Select materials like velvet, linen, or leather for added visual interest and comfort.
- Color: Pick colors that harmonize with your existing decor. Neutral tones offer versatility, while bold colors can make a statement.
You might also think about patterns. Striped or geometric designs can add flair, while solid fabrics provide a classic look.
Accessorizing Your Ottoman
Accessorizing your ottoman boosts its aesthetic appeal. Here are some practical tips:
- Trays: Use a decorative tray to organize items like coasters or remotes. It helps maintain order while adding style.
- Books: Stack coffee table books on top for an artistic touch. Choose visually appealing covers that resonate with your style.
- Pillows: Add small, decorative pillows to enhance comfort. They also allow for personalization and can introduce fun patterns or colors.
Incorporating these accessories can transform your ottoman into a multifunctional centerpiece that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Transforming your coffee table into an ottoman can truly elevate your living space. Not only does it add comfort but it also brings a fresh look to your room. With a few simple steps and some creativity you can create a piece that’s both functional and stylish.
As you style your new ottoman don’t forget to let your personality shine through. Choose fabrics and accessories that resonate with you and your decor. This transformation isn’t just about changing furniture; it’s about enhancing your home and making it a more inviting place for you and your guests. Enjoy the process and the new vibe in your living room!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main purpose of transforming a coffee table into an ottoman?
Transforming a coffee table into an ottoman enhances the living room’s appearance and functionality. It provides extra comfort as a soft footrest, encourages relaxation, and offers versatile uses like additional seating or storage.
How does an ottoman differ from a coffee table?
While coffee tables serve as central surfaces for drinks and decor, ottomans prioritize comfort and versatility. Ottomans can be used to rest feet, provide extra seating, or even serve as storage solutions, making them adaptable furniture pieces.
What materials do I need to convert a coffee table into an ottoman?
To convert a coffee table into an ottoman, you’ll need foam padding, upholstery fabric, adhesive spray, a staple gun, and scissors. These materials will help ensure a comfortable and stylish transformation.
Are there specific steps to follow for the transformation?
Yes, the steps include selecting a suitable coffee table, measuring dimensions, cutting and attaching foam and fabric, wrapping the table, securing it with a staple gun, and adding finishing touches to complete the ottoman.
How can I style my new ottoman?
To style your ottoman, choose durable fabric in a color or pattern that complements your decor. Accessorize it with decorative trays, coffee table books, and small pillows to create a multifunctional centerpiece that reflects your taste.
What are the benefits of converting a coffee table into an ottoman?
The benefits include improved comfort, enhanced aesthetics, and greater functionality in your living space. It creates a cozy atmosphere, serves as a stylish statement piece, and ties together your room’s color schemes.
