4 Best Ottoman Coffee Tables That Serve Double Duty
If you're still thinking of ottomans as glorified footstools, you're missing out — big time. These unsung heroes of the furniture world are stepping up, transforming into statement-making coffee tables that bring comfort, character, and multitasking skills to your space.
And honestly, we’re obsessed.
Why ottomans deserve a promotion
The underrated star of the living room
Today’s ottomans are embracing versatility, pulling double duty as both comfy footrests and convenient coffee tables.
Extra seat? Check. Footrest? Obviously. Impromptu stage for your dog’s sudden burst of energy? Surprisingly yes.
But wait — can you really use an ottoman as a coffee table?
Absolutely. And you should.
These days, ottoman designs are smarter than ever. Some have flat tops perfect for trays and books. Others come with removable cushions that reveal stable surfaces underneath. It's like getting two pieces of furniture for the price (and footprint) of one.
The tray trick: Want instant functionality? Pop a tray on top and your plush ottoman just became a chic landing pad for drinks, remotes, or that one candle you keep buying over and over.
Pick the right shape and material: Round, square, rectangular — there’s no wrong choice, only what fits your flow. Upholstered in leather, bouclé, or performance fabric? It’s all about balancing texture with function.
Don’t be afraid to mix it up: Pouf as a coffee table? Why not. A combo of two smaller ottomans? Go for it. Ottoman and coffee table combo? Welcome to the furniture dream team.
How to pick the perfect coffee table and ottoman combo
Consider your lifestyle
Do you need it to be kid-friendly? Dog-proof? Drink-stable? Start there. Materials like performance fabric or leather can handle more wear and tear, while something like bouclé adds soft sophistication.
Size matters — so does scale
If an ottoman is too big, it overpowers the space. Too small, and it looks lost. Ideally, your ottoman should be around two-thirds the length of your sofa and low enough to keep sight lines clear.
4 ottoman coffee tables that work smarter, not harder
1. The Dawson Ottoman: Plush, oversized, and built to chill
The Dawson Ottoman is the cloud you didn’t know your living room needed. It's big, it’s bold, and comes with fully removable cushion covers. So if you’re using it as a space to serve drinks and snacks, don’t worry about the clean up.
Whether it’s paired with a sectional or lives in your reading nook, Dawson is all about laid-back luxury.
The Dawson Ottoman, Dawson Sofa, and Madison Leather Sofa. Picture credits: @homewithstefani
The Dawson Ottoman and Dawson Extended Sofa. Picture credits: @playa_interiors
2. Solari Ottoman: Bouclé beauty with brains
The Solari Performance Fabric Ottoman is a feast for your eyes and your practical brain. Its tri-tone bouclé fabric weaves soft texture with rich tones, creating a rich and visually interesting look.
Its low, grounded form coupled with spill- and stain-resistant fabric makes it a natural as a coffee table.
It’s cozy, clever, and kind of a scene-stealer.
The tri-tone bouclé is spill and stain resistant.
3. Lorna Outdoor Ottoman: Weather-ready and wicker-wrapped
The Lorna Outdoor Ottoman pairs a breathable woven base with a fade- and mildew-resistant cushion. This piece is crafted with weather-resistant materials, ensuring its durability to brave the elements.
Simply remove the seat cushion, and you’ve got a stable surface for food and drinks. Light, breezy, and easy to move, it’s the kind of piece that makes your patio feel like an actual lounge.
Remove the cushion of the Lorna Outdoor Ottoman to use it as a coffee table.
4. The Jonathan Leather Ottoman: Classic charm meets modern use
The Jonathan Ottoman brings leather-lounge energy to your living space. Upholstered in top grain leather, this one’s for the old souls who still want modern-day utility.
With it’s firm seating, you’ve got a sturdy, sophisticated coffee table that’ll age like fine wine (or a good leather jacket).
The Jonathan Leather Ottoman and Jonathan Extended Sofa. Picture credits: @diyplaybook
The Jonathan Leather Ottoman and Pebble L-shape Sectional Sofa. Picture credits: @raising.tiny.disciples
Find your ideal ottoman-coffee table combination
So yeah, ottomans? Not just footrests anymore. They’re the multitaskers, the space savers, the comfort-bringers — and the coffee tables you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you’re styling a city apartment or a sprawling backyard deck, there’s an ottoman out there just waiting to carry your coffee (and your tired feet). Now go forth and double the duty — your living room will thank you.
Frequently asked questions about ottoman-coffee tables
1. Do ottomans make good coffee tables?
Yes, especially those with a firm, flat surface or a removable tray. They're versatile and can serve as both a footrest and a functional surface for trays, books, or décor.
2. How much weight can an ottoman hold?
It depends on the build. Most ottomans can support an adult’s weight and easily handle common items like trays or books. Check the manufacturer’s details for exact limits.
3. Should your ottoman match your sofa?
Not necessarily. Matching can create a cohesive look, but contrasting styles, colors, or textures can also add interest to your space.
