Can a coffee table be too low?

Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Who invented the coffee table?

No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What size should a coffee table be?

A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Why is it called a coffee table?

Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.

What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?

The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables .The term “end table” is frequently used interchangeably with “coffee table,” and while these two furnishings have much in common, each table type offers its own distinctive benefits in your space.Your end table is likely going to stand as tall as the arms of your sofa , and its depth will match the seating . These attributes allow for tucking the table neatly at the end of your sofa in order to provide an elevated surface between your seating and the wall. End tables are accent pieces — they’re a close cousin to side tables , but side tables, not unlike the show-stealing low-profile coffee table, are intended to be positioned prominently and have more to do with the flow and design of a room than an end table, which does a great job but does it out of the way of everything else.Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a coffee table and a console table?

The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?

The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?

While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?

The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How do you date a Lane coffee table?

To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What is a tall coffee table called?

A tall coffee table is usually called exactly that — a tall coffee table. Coffee tables, also referred to as cocktail tables, are generally designed to sit at or below the sofa's seat height. These tables may come in a range of sizes, but they are often between 16 and 18 inches high and are designed in a variety of lengths and widths. They’re meant to provide a practical table-top surface that complements your living room layout. (A tall version might also be suitable for use as a dining table.) Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary tall coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What is the best height for a coffee table?

The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.

What is the average height of a coffee table?

The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Are glass coffee tables durable?

Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.

1979 Coffee Table

Small Cocktail Tables

Vintage 70s

Brass Flower Table

Glass And Copper Tables

Trunk Tables

Willy Ballez

Table Plexiglas

French Modernist Table

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Round Mid-Century Chrome Coffee Table

$1,000

White Lacquered Triskelion Scroll Coffee Table

Located in Pasadena, TX

A modern sculptural form white lacquer coffee table with an round glass top. A design reminiscent

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood

White Lacquered Triskelion Scroll Coffee Table

$1,525 Sale Price

36% Off

Round sculpted steel brutalist coffee table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Hand made brutalist steel frame coffee table with a round black inserted glass. Gorgeous and

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cut Steel

Round sculpted steel brutalist coffee table, 1970s

$1,009

Vintage copper plated brutalist coffee table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Rustic copper plated coffee table with a nice solid wooden frame. Good condition 1970s - Germany

Category

Vintage 1970s German Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

Vintage copper plated brutalist coffee table, 1970s

$706

Sculptural Coffee Table Déco in wood, Italy

Located in Argelato, BO

Sculptural Coffee Table Décon in wood, Italy Rare and monumental two-tier coffee table in Art Deco

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Sculptural Coffee Table Déco in wood, Italy

$2,969

Bruno Rey for Dietiker Round Coffee Tables

By Bruno Rey

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Bruno Rey for Dietiker, coffee tables, lacquered wood, Switzerland, 1970s These coffee tables

Category

Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Bruno Rey for Dietiker Round Coffee Tables

$1,100 / item

Sculptural Aluminum Glass Coffee/Cocktail Table

Located in Palm Springs, CA

An aluminum base with a new 1/2 inch kidney shaped glass top coffee/cocktail table circa 1970s

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Sculptural Aluminum Glass Coffee/Cocktail Table

$3,900

Italian Coffee Table in White Lacquered Wood

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Coffee table, lacquered wood, Italy, 1970s Clean and unobstructed coffee table executed in high

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Lacquer

Italian Coffee Table in White Lacquered Wood

$2,700

John Mascheroni "Tubo" Aluminum Glass Coffee Table

Located in Esperance, NY

John Mascheroni "Tubo" Aluminum & Glass Coffee Table

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

John Mascheroni "Tubo" Aluminum Glass Coffee Table

$1,100

Modernist Aluminium Glass Vintage Coffee Table by Knut Hesterberg, 1970s Germany

By Ronald Schmitt, Knut Hesterberg

Located in Zagreb, HR

A modernist aluminum glass vintage coffee table, designed by Knut Hesterberg for Ronald Schmitt

Category

Vintage 1970s German Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Modernist Aluminium Glass Vintage Coffee Table by Knut Hesterberg, 1970s Germany

$3,860

Yngve Ekström, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

By Swedese, Yngve Ekström

Located in High Point, NC

A pine "Dymling" coffee table designed by Yngve Ekström and produced by Swedese, Sweden, c. 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swedish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Yngve Ekström, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

$5,800

Exceptional Danish Round Oak Mosaic Coffee Table

By Rolf Middelboe Gorm Lindum

Located in ECHT, NL

furnishings. Its low profile suggests it’s intended as a coffee table, making it both a functional and

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Exceptional Danish Round Oak Mosaic Coffee Table

$4,542 / item

Chrome and Glass Octagonal Coffee Table

By Paul Mayen

Located in New York, NY

which form the base. Design attributed to Paul Mayen, Art Deco Revival, 1970's production coffee

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Chrome and Glass Octagonal Coffee Table

$2,200

Pair of green and black lacquered coffee table

Located in grand Lancy, CH

Pair of green and black lacquered coffee table , the base is black

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Pair of green and black lacquered coffee table

$7,800 / set

Faux Bamboo Chippendale Coffee Table 1970s France

By Jonathan Adler

Located in Den Haag, NL

Beautiful Coffee table .Faux Bamboo wooden frame ,comes with a Wicker top .protected by a Glass

Category

Vintage 1970s French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Faux Bamboo

Faux Bamboo Chippendale Coffee Table 1970s France

$1,650

Swedish Designer, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A pine coffee table designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1970s. A design likely conceived by Roland

Category

Vintage 1970s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Swedish Designer, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

$5,800

Danish Modern Round Rosewood and Marble Coffee Table by Bendixen Design, 1970s.

By Bendixen Design

Located in Asaa, DK

Danish Modern Round Rosewood and Marble Coffee Table by Bendixen Design, 1970s. Stunning circular

Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Danish Modern Round Rosewood and Marble Coffee Table by Bendixen Design, 1970s.

$1,492

Swedish Designer, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A pine coffee or side table designed and produced in Sweden, c. 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s Swedish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Swedish Designer, Coffee Table, Pine, Sweden, 1970s

$2,200

Navy Boat Patrol Coffee Table Screw Propeller

Located in Paris, FR

Coffee table navy boat patrol screw propeller in polished aluminium alloy. circa 1970. With square

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Navy Boat Patrol Coffee Table Screw Propeller

$33,136

Coffer Coffee Table by Belgo Chrome, 1970s

By Belgo Chrome

Located in Brussel, BE

Large square coffee table with a sliding top creating a jewel box-like coffer, all in glass, with a

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel, Chrome

Coffer Coffee Table by Belgo Chrome, 1970s

$3,123

Italian Design Square Coffee Table, 1970s RESTORED

Located in Casale Monferrato, IT

combines elegance and practicality, making this coffee table truly unique. The combination of walnut

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Design Square Coffee Table, 1970s RESTORED

$1,900

Paul Evans Sculpted Bronze "Stalagmite" Coffee Table

By Paul Evans

Located in Dallas, TX

A Paul Evans designed PE-128 "Stalagmite" coffee table with glass top.

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Paul Evans Sculpted Bronze "Stalagmite" Coffee Table

$12,000

Italian Design Wooden Coffee Table, 1970s RESTORED

Located in Casale Monferrato, IT

often combines elegance and practicality, making this coffee table truly unique. The combination of

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Design Wooden Coffee Table, 1970s RESTORED

$2,149

Vintage copper plated brutalist coffee table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Rustic copper plated coffee table with a nice solid wooden frame. Good condition 1970s - Germany

Category

Vintage 1970s German Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper, Enamel

Vintage copper plated brutalist coffee table, 1970s

$1,484

Brass Tray Coffee Table Bamboo Glass

Located in Lake Worth, FL

Estate fine Furniture Acquisitions Of A 1970s Brass & Glass Tray Coffee Table with Faux Bamboo Base in

Category

Vintage 1970s Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Brass Tray Coffee Table Bamboo Glass

$1,356 Sale Price

20% Off

Mastercraft Faux Bamboo Brass Glass Coffee Table

By Mastercraft

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

This Mastercraft faux bamboo brass and glass coffee table embodies the timeless elegance and

Category

Vintage 1970s American Classical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Mastercraft Faux Bamboo Brass Glass Coffee Table

$1,995

Brazilian Designer, Coffee Table, Pequi, Brazil, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A Pequi wood coffee table designed and produced in Brazil, c. 1970s. Light scratching and staining

Category

Vintage 1970s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Brazilian Designer, Coffee Table, Pequi, Brazil, 1970s

$8,800

Hand Carved Wooden Leaves Square Coffee Table

Located in Delray Beach, FL

Enhance your living room with the amazing vintage hand carved wooden coffee table. This table

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Hand Carved Wooden Leaves Square Coffee Table

$390 Sale Price

75% Off

Italian Glass Top Coffee Table 1970 s

Located in Shibuya-ku, 13

This coffee table showcases a distinctive design, highlighted by its uniquely curved chrome legs

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Italian Glass Top Coffee Table 1970 s

$2,300

Silas Seandel Ribbon Coffee Table, 1977

By Silas Seandel

Located in Hamburg, PA

A signed Silas Seandel ribbon coffee table from New York City-based metal sculptor. Made of glass

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Silas Seandel Ribbon Coffee Table, 1977

$6,500

Patchwork brushed aluminum coffee table, 1970s Europe.

Located in Landgraaf, NL

Patchwork brushed aluminum coffee table, 1970s Europe. Square coffee table with aluminum patchwork

Category

Vintage 1970s European Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Patchwork brushed aluminum coffee table, 1970s Europe.

$3,266 / item

Square Coffee Table in Steel and Glass

By Kill International, Horst Bruning

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Coffee table, steel and glass, The Netherlands, 1970s Modernist coffee table in chrome plated

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Square Coffee Table in Steel and Glass

$1,650

Maison Jansen World Map Coffee Table 1970s France

By Maison Jansen

Located in Den Haag, NL

Stunning Campaign style Coffee table or side Table . Solid Mahogany ,comes with Brass rim . And on

Category

Vintage 1970s French Campaign Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Maison Jansen World Map Coffee Table 1970s France

$1,674

Angelo Mangiarotti, Eros Marble Coffee Table, 1970s

By Skipper, Angelo Mangiarotti

Located in Renens, CH

Coffee table designed by Angelo Mangiarotti for Skipper as part of the iconic Eros series

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble

Angelo Mangiarotti, Eros Marble Coffee Table, 1970s

$18,409 / item

Ceramic coffee table Jacques Blin France 1970

By Jacques Blin

Located in PARIS, FR

Rare ceramic coffee table attributed to Jacques Blin circa 1970 Iron base - nice vintage condition

Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic coffee table Jacques Blin France 1970

$8,195

Personnal diabolo coffee table by Raphaël Raffel

By Raphael Raffel

Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR

Très rare table basse par Raphael Raffel, crée pour son l’intérieur de son appartement à Paris vers

Category

Vintage 1970s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Personnal diabolo coffee table by Raphaël Raffel

$19,003

Vintage Marble Coffee Table--Cocktail Table-Loung Table-Maison Jansen Style-70s

By Maison Jansen

Located in Bussiere Dunoise, Nouvel Aquitaine

Coffee Table Style - the Marble Table Top comes with natural patterns in a beautiful mix of delicate

Category

Vintage 1970s French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Metal, Brass

Vintage Marble Coffee Table--Cocktail Table-Loung Table-Maison Jansen Style-70s

$565 Sale Price

30% Off

Pair Of 1970s Mastercraft Brass Ming Coffee Tables.

Located in Tarrytown, NY

1970s Mastercraft brass and glass coffee table. Two available. $1800 each.

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Pair Of 1970s Mastercraft Brass Ming Coffee Tables.

$1,800 / item

Vintage Burl Wood and Brass Coffee Table

By Mastercraft

Located in North Hollywood, CA

This stunning vintage burl wood coffee table, a true gem from the 1970s, was proudly crafted in the

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage Burl Wood and Brass Coffee Table

$5,400

Vintage travertine and glass coffee table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Vintage coffee table consisting of 4 travertine cillindres and an oval clear glass top. Timeless

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine

Vintage travertine and glass coffee table, 1970s

$1,365

Stone International Mid Century Marble Coffee Table

By Stone International

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Stone International Mid Century Marble Coffee Table This coffee table measures: 42 wide x 42 deep

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Stone International Mid Century Marble Coffee Table

$3,895

Pair of Coffee Tables "Gigogne" circa 1970

Located in Saint ouen, FR

Pair of coffee tables "Gigogne" circa 1970 trois tables par pièce verre et laiton table 1

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Pair of Coffee Tables "Gigogne" circa 1970

$3,325

Maitland Smith Marble Brass Coffee Table, 1970

By Maitland Smith

Located in Chicago, IL

Maitland Smith marble brass coffee table, 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Maitland Smith Marble Brass Coffee Table, 1970

$3,600

Guillerme et Chambron oak and ceramic coffee table

By Guillerme et Chambron

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

A guillerme et Chambron edition votre maison oak and ceramic coffee table

Category

Vintage 1970s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic, Oak

Guillerme et Chambron oak and ceramic coffee table

$3,088

Round Lucite Spiral Coffee Table, USA, 1970s

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Round Lucite spiral coffee table. USA, 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Lucite

Round Lucite Spiral Coffee Table, USA, 1970s

$2,600

Natural Rattan Ficks Reed Square Coffee Table

By Ficks Reed

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Natural rattan and bamboo Ficks Reed coffee table with lattice pattern. Very rare in natural rattan

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan

Natural Rattan Ficks Reed Square Coffee Table

$900

4 Amanta coffee table by Mario Bellini

By Mario Bellini, B&B Italia

Located in Vlimmeren, BE

Set of 4 Amanta coffee tables designed by Mario Bellini and made by B&B Italia. Mario Bellini (1935

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

4 Amanta coffee table by Mario Bellini

$3,711 / set

1970 s Herringbone Onyx Pedestal Coffee Table

By Karl Springer

Located in Culver City, CA

Feast your eyes on this ultra-chic, vintage 1970s gem! This stunning coffee table is a true

Category

Vintage 1970s Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Onyx

1970 s Herringbone Onyx Pedestal Coffee Table

$3,250

Herbert Hirche coffee table for Rosenthal, 1970s

By Herbert Hirche

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Vintage coffee table designed by Herbert Hirche for Rosenthal, in the 1970s. The table consists of

Category

Vintage 1970s German Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

Herbert Hirche coffee table for Rosenthal, 1970s

$2,693

Rectangular coffee table by Gangso– Denmark 1973

By Gangsø Møbler

Located in Girona, Girona

Rectangular coffee table with mahogany veneer and 4 removable legs, top with mahogany frame and 18

Category

Vintage 1970s Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic, Mahogany

Rectangular coffee table by Gangso– Denmark 1973

$2,375

Pine Two Piece Coffee Table, England circa 1970

Located in Culver City, CA

England, 1970 Pine coffee table in two pieces, can be assembled in various positions. 59"L x 26"d x

Category

Vintage 1970s English Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Pine Two Piece Coffee Table, England circa 1970

$4,200

McGuire Rattan Coffee Table with Glass Top

By McGuire, John and Elinor McGuire

Located in Highland, IN

Elinor McGuire designed coffee table for McGuire of San Fransisco, the company she started with her

Category

Vintage 1970s American Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Leather, Rattan

McGuire Rattan Coffee Table with Glass Top

$2,700

Italian Wicker and Rattan Coffee Table, 1970s

Located in Oud Beijerland, NL

Lovely oval coffee or side table, fabricated in Italy in the 70's. This very nice table is hand

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Italian Wicker and Rattan Coffee Table, 1970s

$1,650

Italian Designer, Coffee Table, Teak, Italy, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A three-piece dark-stained teak coffee table or occasional tables designed and produced in Italy, c

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Italian Designer, Coffee Table, Teak, Italy, 1970s

$4,400 / set

Chrome + Travertine Square Coffee Table, France 1970s

Located in Chicago, IL

A stunning 1970s Modernist coffee table sourced in the South of France. The square tabletop

Category

Vintage 1970s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine, Chrome

Chrome + Travertine Square Coffee Table, France 1970s

$6,400

60s 70s Brutalist Coffee Table Side Table Slate Top Design

Located in Neuenkirchen, NI

60s 70s Brutalist Coffee Table Side Table Slate Top Design Object: coffee table Manufacturer

Category

Vintage 1970s German Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Slate

60s 70s Brutalist Coffee Table Side Table Slate Top Design

$2,957

Jacques Duval-Brasseur Illuminated Butterfly Coffee Table

By Jacques Duval-Brasseur 1

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Jacques Duval-Brasseur illuminated brass butterfly with blue agate wings coffee table. Approximate

Category

Vintage 1970s French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Agate, Brass

Jacques Duval-Brasseur Illuminated Butterfly Coffee Table

$8,792 Sale Price

49% Off

Tables Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Tables

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1979 Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the 1979 coffee table you’re looking for. Frequently made of metal, glass and brass, every 1979 coffee table was constructed with great care. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect 1979 coffee table — we have versions that date back to the 20th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 20th Century are available. A 1979 coffee table made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Hollywood Regency — is very popular. A well-made 1979 coffee table has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Willy Rizzo, Maison Jansen and Paul Evans are consistently popular.

How Much is a 1979 Coffee Table?

Prices for a 1979 coffee table start at $1 and top out at $180,000 with the average selling for $2,998.

Finding the Right Coffee-tables-cocktail-tables for You

As a practical focal point in your living area, antique and vintage coffee tables and cocktail tables are an invaluable addition to any interior.

Low tables that were initially used as tea tables or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. Early coffee tables surfaced in Victorian-era England, likely influenced by the use of tea tables in Japanese tea gardens. In the United States, furniture makers worked to introduce low, long tables into their offerings as the popularity of coffee and “coffee breaks” took hold during the late 19th century and early 20th century.

It didn’t take long for coffee tables and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Originally, these tables were as simple as they are practical — as high as your sofa and made primarily of wood. In recent years, however, metal, glass and plastics have become popular in coffee tables and cocktail tables, and design hasn’t been restricted to the conventional low profile, either.

Visionary craftspeople such as Paul Evans introduced bold, geometric designs that challenge the traditional idea of what a coffee table can be. The elongated rectangles and wide boxy forms of Evans’s desirable Cityscape coffee table, for example, will meet your needs but undoubtedly prove imposing in your living space.

If you’re shopping for an older coffee table to bring into your home — be it an antique Georgian-style coffee table made of mahogany or walnut with decorative inlays or a classic square mid-century modern piece comprised of rosewood designed by the likes of Ettore Sottsass — there are a few things you should keep in mind.

Both the table itself and what you put on it should align with the overall design of the room, not just by what you think looks fashionable in isolation. According to interior designer Tamara Eaton, the material of your vintage coffee table is something you need to consider. “With a glass coffee table, you also have to think about the surface underneath, like the rug or floor,” she says. “With wood and stone tables, you think about what’s on top.”

Find the perfect centerpiece for any room, no matter what your personal furniture style on 1stDibs — shop Art Deco coffee tables, travertine coffee tables and other antique and vintage coffee tables and cocktail tables today.

Questions About 1979 Coffee Table

Can a coffee table be too low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.

Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What size should a coffee table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

The term “end table” is frequently used interchangeably with “coffee table,” and while these two furnishings have much in common, each table type offers its own distinctive benefits in your space.

Your end table is likely going to stand as tall as the arms of your sofa, and its depth will match the seating. These attributes allow for tucking the table neatly at the end of your sofa in order to provide an elevated surface between your seating and the wall. End tables are accent pieces — they’re a close cousin to side tables, but side tables, not unlike the show-stealing low-profile coffee table, are intended to be positioned prominently and have more to do with the flow and design of a room than an end table, which does a great job but does it out of the way of everything else.

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What is the difference between a coffee table and a console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do you date a Lane coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is a tall coffee table called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
A tall coffee table is usually called exactly that — a tall coffee table. Coffee tables, also referred to as cocktail tables, are generally designed to sit at or below the sofa's seat height. These tables may come in a range of sizes, but they are often between 16 and 18 inches high and are designed in a variety of lengths and widths. They’re meant to provide a practical table-top surface that complements your living room layout. (A tall version might also be suitable for use as a dining table.) Shop a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary tall coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
What is the best height for a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.
What is the best coffee table for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.
What is the average height of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Are glass coffee tables durable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.

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