Best Short Table Legs for Coffee & End Tables

Short table legs are typically popular when people are looking for a centerpiece for their living room. At Flowyline Design, we offer hundreds of designs, from basic to modern, to fulfill every home decor idea. Let's dive into the world of our top-notch short table legs designs from our coffee and end table leg collections, which are picked by a large number of Flowyline clients due to their elegance and distinctive designs.

Why Short Table Legs Are Perfect for Your Home

When you're shopping for a new coffee table or thinking about updating your old one, don't forget about the short table legs. They might seem like a small detail, but the best short legs for table can really change how your room looks and feels. Short table legs have become very popular lately, and for good reason. Let's talk about 7 reasons why they might be perfect for your home.

1. Short Table Legs are Built to Last

One of the best things about shorten table legs is how strong they are. If you've ever had a wooden table that started wobbling or cracking after a few years, you'll appreciate this. Metal short table legs don't warp like wood does, and they won't crack or fall apart over time.

This strength makes metal legs perfect for heavy tabletops. Whether you want a solid wood end table, a glass coffee table, or even a stone surface, metal short table legs can handle the weight up to 500 lbs without any problems.

2. Short Table Legs Work with Any Style

Here's something really nice about table short legs — they fit into almost any room style. If you like modern, clean looks, they're perfect. If you prefer that industrial, warehouse-type style, they work great there, too. Even if your home has a more traditional feel, the right short legged table can blend in beautifully.

The secret is their clean, simple lines. They don't fight with other furniture pieces or decorations in your room. Instead, they support everything else and help create a neat, organized look.

Why Short Table Legs Are Perfect for Your HomeNamu 16 inches table legs for an elegant coffee table

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: Coffee Table Base 106S Namu 16H

You can pair Namu short table legs with almost any tabletop material. Want a modern look? Try them with an epoxy table top. Want something more rustic? They look amazing with reclaimed wood. The possibilities are endless.

3. You Can Make Short Table Legs Your Own

Short legs table come in lots of different shapes, sizes, and colors. This means you can find exactly what works for your space and your taste. If you like that retro look from the 1950s and '60s, Cleo short table legs 16" H are perfect. If you want something more dramatic and eye-catching, there are geometric short table legs designs that really make a statement.

Short legs table come in lots of different shapesIf you like that retro look from the 60s, Cleo short table legs are perfect for end table

Credit: Flowyline

Shop now: Coffee Table Legs 443 Cleo 16H

4. Short Table Legs Save Space

If you live in a smaller home or apartment, you know how important it is to make your space feel open and airy. Short wood table legs are perfect to make space feel open and airy because they're usually slim and don't take up much visual space.

Short coffee table legs leave plenty of room for people to sit comfortably. A coffee table with sleek metal legs won't make your living room feel crowded. The space underneath stays open, which makes the whole room feel bigger.

5. Short Table Legs Work in Every Room

Don't think short table legs are just for coffee tables. They're wonderful throughout your home.

In your living room, they can make side tables or TV stands look more sophisticated. In bedrooms, they work beautifully on nightstands or vanity tables, giving a modern touch to the space.

If you have a home office, short adjustable table legs provide the strength you need for an extendable table while keeping everything looking professional and clean. They're also popular for drink tables, where they give that sleek, restaurant-style look that goes so well with modern appliances.

Short Table Legs Work in Every RoomShort metal table legs offer all the features you want in furniture

Credit: Flowyline Design

Shop now: 117 Uzar 16" H Live Edge Bench Legs

6. Short Table Legs Perfect for DIY Projects

If you enjoy making your own furniture or customizing pieces, short table legs are a dream to work with. They're easy to install, you can find them almost anywhere, and they work with all kinds of table top materials.

Many short table legs come with pre-drilled holes and all the hardware you need, making them perfect for beginners. Even if you've never attached short legs to a table without apron before, you can create beautiful, custom tables that fit your space perfectly.

7. Short Table Legs are Easy to Take Care Of

Nobody wants furniture that needs constant attention. That's another great thing about short table legs. They're low-profile and sturdy, short table legs take more bumps but hide everyday messes better

As you might know, short wood table legs need regular polishing or special treatments. On the other hand, metal short legs just need a quick wipe with a damp cloth. Dust, spills, fingerprints — they all come off easily. No wonder people like metal/steel material that much for short table legs.

Top 5 Short Table Legs for Coffee Tables (16 — 20 Inches)

1. Kheops Metal Short Table Legs 16" H

  • Style: Contemporary, Scandinavian.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 500 lbs.

Kheops has a modern appearance that brings elegance to your small tables. Many customers pick these short legs for tables because they look unique and add an industrial touch to contemporary coffee tables. You can also use four metal legs to support big round coffee tables. You'll be amazed at how great your table looks.

Top 5 Short Table Legs for Coffee Tables

Unique metal coffee table legs for unique table settings

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 125 Kheops Bench Legs

2. Haru Metal Short Table Base 16" H

  • Style: Contemporary, minimalist.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy table tops up to 250 lbs.

Choose the Haru as the metal short table base to take your table to the next level. This table leg design provides both visual appeal and reliable functioning thanks to its sturdy construction and simple installation. Create a stunning eating or workspace that represents your modern style and serves as a solid support for all of your activities.

Haru Metal Short Table BaseH-shaped short coffee table base for hospitality use and commercial restaurants 

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 208 Haru Coffee Table Base

3. Botas Metal Short Table Legs 16" H

  • Style: Contemporary, Scandinavian, Minimalist.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables, coffee table.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy table tops up to 500 lbs.

The inspiration for this short table legs diy design came from Mother Nature. Refined lines and modern curving lines describe the ocean waves that are rolling and washing ashore. This design shows a distinct sense of nostalgia. Botas table legs, with their unique design, will leave an indelible mark not only on the owners but also on their guests.

short table legs diy design came from Mother NatureOcean-themed table legs ideas for beach houses seeking short table legs replacement

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 214 Botas Coffee Table Legs

4. Radix Metal Short Table Legs 16" H

  • Style: Scandinavian, jellyfish-like design.
  • Best short table legs for: Coffee table, live-edge end tables.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy table tops up to 500 lbs.

Radix design from our short coffee table legs collection will be a stunning addition to your living room with its modern design and artistic feel. These short table legs metal can also enhance the overall look of your dining furniture settings with their contemporary design.

Radix design from our short coffee table legs collectionRadix black steel short end table legs are customizable to meet your needs

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 202 Radix Coffee Table Legs

5. Arko Metal Short Table Legs 16" H

  • Style: Scandinavian, Minimalist, Tree-like design, Industrial style.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables, outdoor table, and coffee table.
  • Key Feature: Supports heavy table tops up to 500 lbs.

The Akro design is industrial-inspired, adding a touch of raw elegance to your coffee tables and benches. These short legs for tables, with sharp lines and matte finish, provide a modern look that complements a variety of interior themes. Akro table short legs will become a focal point, showcasing your style and giving your living space an industrial beauty.

short legs for tablesIndustrial black short table legs for coffee tables and benches

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 126 Akro Metal Bench Legs

5 Best Short Table Legs for End Tables: Namu, Tulipe, and More

1. Atlas Metal Short Table Base 18" H

  • Style: Contemporary, Tree-like design.
  • Best short table legs for: coffee table, outdoor table, bedside table, end table.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 600 lbs.

This short table base design is available in many sizes and heights. You can easily find a piece that fits your table top on our website. Atlas steel table legs give your table and bench a contemporary look. Its contemporary tree-like shape adds a touch of elegance to every end table setting.

short table base design is available in many sizes and heightsAtlas 18 inch short metal table legs for end tables

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: End Table Leg 224 Atlas 18H Farmhouse Furniture

2. Tulipe Metal Short Table Base 20" H

  • Style: Tree-like design, Mid Century Modern.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 500 lbs.

Tulipe is multifunctional and works well with a variety of table tops. The 20" H table base complements many materials and styles, whether you have a wooden, glass, or marble table. Its versatile and ageless form lets it blend in with a variety of interior designs. That's why you can easily create stylish centerpieces with one of the best-selling short table legs.

Tulipe Metal Short Table BaseNature-inspired Tulipe short table legs for a modern home

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 220 Tulipe End Table Base

3. Lithe Short End Table Base 20" H

  • Style: Contemporary, Tree-like design, Minimalist.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables, coffee table, nesting table, outdoor table, and pedestal table.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 500 lbs

With dimensions of 15" L x 15" W x 20" H, the 217 Lithe pedestal base is designed to provide perfect support and balance for your end table. This short table leg design is an excellent choice for any furniture project, thanks to its ideal dimensions, which give durability and a stunning look to any end table.

short table leg designLove minimalist short table legs style? Check out the Lithe table base design

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 217 Lithe End Table Base

4. Curva Short End Table Legs 20" H

  • Style: Mid-century, Contemporary, Scandinavian, Minimalist.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables, coffee tables, and outdoor tables.
  • Key feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 500 lbs.

Installing these short adjustable table legs is simple. Each of our furniture legs is handmade with useful pre-drilled mounting plates. Now you can assemble any wooden table at a glance. Curva end table legs are also our best-selling item, and it has received hundreds of positive reviews from customers.

Curva end table legsBest-selling end table legs for any home decoration

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 219 Curva Bench Legs

5. Python Short End Table Legs 20" H

  • Style: Contemporary, Minimalist, Scandinavian.
  • Best short table legs for: Live-edge end tables, coffee table, and outdoor table.
  • Key Feature: Supports heavy tabletops up to 500 lbs.

Are you a fan of minimalist short coffee table legs and modern home decor? Discover the elegant Python, which might just become your new favorite. This design has the power to transform any furniture setting into a masterpiece. Whether you choose a live edge slab, an epoxy tabletop, or a marble top, the choice to elevate your space is yours.

minimalist short coffee table legsPython ends table legs — a combination of strength and style

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: Coffee and End Table Base 223 Python 16H

How to Pick the Right Short Table Legs for Your DIY Project

Building your own table can be a fun and satisfying project. The key to making it look great is choosing the right short table legs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.

Why Table Leg Size Matters

When you change the height of a table leg, you can't just make it shorter or taller. The whole leg needs to be redesigned so it looks right.

A shirt that fits a tall person won't look right if you just cut it shorter for someone small. The same goes for table legs. At Flowyline Design, we redesign each leg size so it looks balanced whether you're making a coffee table or an end table.

Step 1: Pick Your Favorite Short Table Leg Styles

The style you choose sets the whole mood for your furniture. Here are some popular options that work well in most homes:

  • Modern Styles: Mid-Century Modern gives you that clean, sleek look from the 1950s and 60s. Minimalist short legs for table are simple and work with almost any decor.
  • Traditional Styles: Country and Farmhouse styles bring warmth and comfort to your home. Classic designs like Mission, French Country, and Shaker have been popular for decades because they never go out of style.
  • Special Details: You can add flutes (decorative grooves) to your legs. Straight flutes give a formal look, while spiral flutes add more character.

How to Pick the Right Short Table LegsCheck your furniture and think about which short table legs would fit best in your room.

Credit: Flowyline

Shop now: Short Coffee Table Base 201 Alva 16H

Step 2: Choose the Right Height of Short Table Legs

This is actually the easiest part. The height depends on what you're building:

  • Coffee tables normally go with short table legs: 16 to 18 inches tall
  • End tables go with both high and short table legs: 16 to 28 inches tall
  • Standard dining table height often goes with: 28 to 29 inches tall
  • Kitchen islands and bars: 36 to 42 inches tall

Remember to add the thickness of your tabletop to get the final height. If your tabletop is 2 inches thick and you want a 30-inch dining table, you need 28-inch legs.

Read our newest Standard Kitchen Counter Height Guide

Step 3: Think About Short Table Legs Thickness

The thickness of your legs affects how your table looks and feels. Here's what to consider:

  • Match your tabletop: Thick table tops usually look best with thick legs. Thin tops often look better with thinner legs. However, sometimes mixing thick and thin can create an interesting look.
  • Consider your table size: Bigger tables need thicker legs to look balanced. An 8-foot table will look odd with skinny legs, while a small 4-foot table might look overwhelmed by thick legs.
  • Think about your room: Heavy, thick legs work well in large spaces. Thinner legs can make a small room feel less crowded.

Important Things to Remember

  • Measure twice, order once. The biggest mistake people make is not realizing how thick their shorten table legs will actually be. A leg that measures 3½ inches might not sound thick, but it's actually quite substantial when you see it in person.
  • Consider seating space. If you're making a dining table, thicker legs take up more room where people sit. Make sure each person has 24 to 28 inches of space so they can eat comfortably without bumping into the legs.
  • Ask for help. If you can't find exactly what you want, most companies like Flowyline will make custom table legs for you. Don't be afraid to ask for exactly what you need.

Detailed Video Guide for How to Attach Short Table Legs to Table Top

Once you've chosen the perfect short table legs, you need to attach them properly. There are several ways to do this, and we've included a helpful video below to show you one of the most popular methods.

The video demonstrates how to attach legs directly to your tabletop without using an apron (the frame that sometimes goes around the edge of a table). This method uses mounting plates and threaded inserts, which create a strong, professional connection.

Watch the video: Install Threaded Inserts Like a Pro | Your Ultimate Guide | DIY Tutorial

How to Clean and Protect Short Table Legs

Building your own table can be a fun and satisfying project. The key to making it look great is choosing the right legs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step.

1. Regular Cleaning

Cleaning end table legs is a crucial step to keep your furniture looking new. You can simply use warm water, dish soap, and a soft cloth to clean the metal surface. Avoid using abrasive cleansers or steel wool, which can harm the metal's surface.

2. Preventing Rust

Keeping furniture legs indoors or in dry areas also helps them last longer. If you want to set up an outdoor table, stainless steel table legs and furniture with a powder-coated finish will be suitable choices. Don't forget to reapply the top protective coat regularly to prevent the metal furniture from rusting.

How to Clean and Protect Short Table Legs

We need to keep our short legs for table clean to maintain their new look

Credit: Freepik

3. Removing Rust

Removing rust from metal furniture is simple. However, it's important to follow specific steps for the best results. You can click on the recommended blog below and follow the detailed instructions on how to remove rust from old furniture.

3 Wonderful Home Decor Ideas with Short Table Legs

Short table legs open up exciting decorating possibilities that taller furniture can't offer. Here are some creative ways to use them in your home.

1. Adding Home Accessories

Adding modest components to your table, such as fragrant candles, miniature flower pots, and books. Together, they can boost the aesthetic value while also creating a focal point for the space. In the picture below, short table legs design can personalize the living area and express your exact vision.

short table legs design can personalize the living areaAdding home accessories is a great way to highlight your living space

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: Coffee Table Base 215 Namu 16H

2. Minimalism Style

Decorating your living area with simple items and basic colors like white, black, gray, and neutral tones will create a clean ambiance. We may also need some focal points to minimize boredom while also harmonizing the space design with short legs for table. Vibrant tables, rugs, or pillows are simple and excellent choices to enhance your home decor.

shorten legs for table

Check and apply the finish coat again when there are signs of damage on the table legs

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: Coffee Table Legs 120 Xavier 16H

3. Waterfall Table and Bench

This table decoration idea has grown increasingly popular in recent years. You may easily amaze your guests with a spectacular centerpiece because of the outstanding waterfall effect. To personalize your living space, this style of short table legs and bench can also be crafted from wood and epoxy.

short table legsDon’t forget to check and remove rust on furniture legs regularly if needed

Credit: Flowyline Design

Buy now: 101 Wishbone Metal Bench Legs

FAQs

1. What are short legged tables called?

Short legged tables go by different names depending on their height and use. Coffee tables are the most common type, usually standing 16 to 18 inches tall. You might also hear them called cocktail tables, especially in formal settings. Very low tables that sit close to the floor are sometimes called floor tables or Japanese-style tables.

2. What can I use instead of table legs?

There are many creative alternatives to traditional table legs. You can use metal table legs that look like blocks or cubes for a modern look, or stack books for a temporary solution. Metal pedestals create a sleek, single-support base. For rustic projects, try tree stumps or thick wooden posts.

3. Is 27 inches too short for a dining table?

Yes, 27 inches is too short for most dining situations. Standard dining tables are 28 to 30 inches tall, which allows most people to sit comfortably in regular dining chairs. At 27 inches, your knees might hit the table, and it will feel awkward to eat.

4. Can you shorten table legs?

Yes, you can shorten most table legs, but it takes some care and the right tools. For wooden legs, you can cut them with a saw, but make sure to measure twice and cut once.

When it comes to metal legs, you'll need a metal cutting saw. But we recommend that you find custom short table legs instead of trying to cut existing ones yourself. Companies like Flowyline can make custom short table legs to your exact specifications. Simply tell them the height you need, the style you want, and any special requirements for your project. You can contact us at customerservice@flowyline.com, and we can start a DIY project right away.

Choosing the Right Short Table Legs for Your Home

Short table legs offer so many benefits — they're strong, stylish, versatile, and affordable. Whether you're building new furniture or updating what you have, they're worth considering.

The trend toward metal table legs in interior design reflects how modern home decor is evolving to embrace both strength and sophistication. They give you the best of both worlds: practical furniture that also looks great.

Take some time to think about your space, your style, and what you need from your furniture. You might find that metal short table legs are exactly what you've been looking for to make your home more beautiful and functional.

Decor trend