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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Why are modern coffee tables so low?

Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.

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.

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.

Belgium Coffee Tables

1980s Furniture Bamboo

Category

Late 20th Century Belgian Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Slate, Metal, Iron

Early 20th Century Belgian Slate Joined with New Iron Coffee Table Base

$3,720

Ceramic Tile Coffee Table by Rogier Vandeweghe for Amphora, Belgium, 1960 s

By Amphora, Rogier Vandeweghe

Located in Antwerp, Antwerp

This exceptional coffee table, designed by renowned Belgian ceramist Rogier Vandeweghe and produced

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Ceramic Tile Coffee Table by Rogier Vandeweghe for Amphora, Belgium, 1960 s

$3,797

Brutalist Travertine Coffee Table from Willy Ballez, Belgium, 1970s

Located in Brussels, BE

Brutalist travertine coffee table from Willy Ballez, Belgium, 1970s.

Category

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

Materials

Travertine

Brutalist Travertine Coffee Table from Willy Ballez, Belgium, 1970s

$2,966 / item

Low Japandi bamboo and wenge coffee table by Axel Vervoordt, Belgium 1980s

By Axel Vervoordt

Located in Zaandam, NL

Stunning low burnt bamboo coffee table by Axel Vervoordt, Belgium 1980s. This table is in good

Category

Vintage 1980s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Wenge

Low Japandi bamboo and wenge coffee table by Axel Vervoordt, Belgium 1980s

$5,927

1970s Belgian Brass Coffee table in the Shape of a Resting Stag

Located in London, GB

Nature-inspired Belgian 1970s brass coffee table, crafted with great attention to detail, this

Category

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

Materials

Brass

1970s Belgian Brass Coffee table in the Shape of a Resting Stag

$8,489

1940´s Coffee Table by De Coene Frères, mahogany, Rio rosewood - Belgium

By De Coene Frères

Located in Girona, Girona

Splendide coffee table, solid mahogany and Rio rosewood veneer, French polish. Polished brass feet

Category

Vintage 1940s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

1940´s Coffee Table by De Coene Frères, mahogany, Rio rosewood - Belgium

$3,085

Schumacher Antique Brass Coffee Table with Antiqued Glass Top made in Belgium

By Schumacher

Located in New York, NY

A Mid- Century Brass Coffee Table topped with Antiqued Glass, made in Belgium. Since Schumacher

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Schumacher Antique Brass Coffee Table with Antiqued Glass Top made in Belgium

$2,590

Etched Brass + Inlaid Agate ‘Horizon’ Coffee Table by Felix De Boussy, Belgium

By Felix de Boussy 1

Located in Chicago, IL

A striking and sculptural polished brass coffee table, Horizon, by Belgian designer Felix De Boussy

Category

Antique 1670s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Metal

Etched Brass + Inlaid Agate ‘Horizon’ Coffee Table by Felix De Boussy, Belgium

$5,400

20th Century Belgian Wooden Table

Located in High Point, NC

A wooden coffee table created in 20th century Belgium. Stout and sturdy, this dark brown circular

Category

20th Century Belgian Country Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

20th Century Belgian Wooden Table

$1,595

Unique Heckscher Etched Brass Abstract Artisan Made Coffee Table, Belgium 1970 s

By Christian Heckscher

Located in bergen op zoom, NL

Unique one off coffee table designed and made by artist Christian Heckscher, Belgium, 1972 From

Category

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

Materials

Brass, Steel

Unique Heckscher Etched Brass Abstract Artisan Made Coffee Table, Belgium 1970 s

$10,000

Belgian Green Bonsai Coffee Table with Brass Accents by Willy Daro, 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in Chicago, IL

This stunning coffee table features an intricate green metal base shaped like a bonsai tree

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Belgian Green Bonsai Coffee Table with Brass Accents by Willy Daro, 1970s

$7,200

1960s Retro Belgian Abstract Op Art Abstract Tiled Top Coffee Table by Adri

Located in London, England

An original Belgian 21-tile tiled top coffee table designed by Adri Belgique. The painting in the

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

1960s Retro Belgian Abstract Op Art Abstract Tiled Top Coffee Table by Adri

$575

Christian Urekels Belgian Modern Table

Located in Astoria, NY

Christian Urekels Belgian Modern Coffee Table, signed to plaque on edge, resin top with inlaid

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Christian Urekels Belgian Modern Table

$23,500

Vintage 1970 s Belgo Chrom Belgian Designed Coffee Table

By belgochrom

Located in Forest Row, East Sussex

A mid-century coffee table manufactured by Belgo Chrom. Lucite, brass and chrome base with a 15mm

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Vintage 1970 s Belgo Chrom Belgian Designed Coffee Table

$2,259

20th Century Brass Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrom, Belgium, c.1980

By Belgo Chrome

Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

The brass “G” frame supports a thick clear glass and a smokey mirrored glass on the lower tier. It is a wonderful item of furniture, stylish, useful, and sure to adorn any elegant mo...

Category

20th Century Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

20th Century Brass Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrom, Belgium, c.1980

$3,005

Bonsai Brass Coffee by Willy Daro, Belgium 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in Chicago, IL

This stunning vintage brass coffee table features an intricate base in the shape of a bonsai tree

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Bonsai Brass Coffee by Willy Daro, Belgium 1970s

$7,200

19th Century Belgian Low Table

Located in Chicago, IL

An incredible and alluring primitive 19th century Belgian sanglier (wild boar) butcher's table with

Category

Antique 19th Century Belgian Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

19th Century Belgian Low Table

$8,500

Geometric Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1980s

Located in New York, NY

Belgium, c1980s. Stylish side table of geometric form. Veneered wood. The table is fairly light

Category

Vintage 1980s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Geometric Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1980s

$2,950

Massive Brass Coffee Table in the Style of Willy, Daro, Belgium, 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in Rijssen, NL

Stunning brass coffee table. Organic shaped. Brass is in very good and clean condition, the glass

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Bronze

Massive Brass Coffee Table in the Style of Willy, Daro, Belgium, 1970s

$4,865

Massive Brass Coffee Table in the Style of Willy Daro, Belgium, 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in Rijssen, NL

Stunning brass coffee table. Organic shaped. Brass is in very good and clean condition, the glass

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Bronze

Massive Brass Coffee Table in the Style of Willy Daro, Belgium, 1970s

$4,628

Bronze Etched Coffee Table by Willy Caro, 1970s, Belgium

By Willy Daro

Located in Antwerp, BE

Willy Daro etched brass piece by Belgian artist A true collectible design piece. Fits well in a

Category

Vintage 1970s European Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Bronze Etched Coffee Table by Willy Caro, 1970s, Belgium

$13,000

Marc D Haenens Unique Coffee Table with Pink Quartz, circa 1980, Belgium

By Marc D haenens

Located in Brussels, BE

One of a kind Marc D'Haenens coffee table, circa 1980, Belgium. Coated and painted metal top

Category

Vintage 1980s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Gold Plate, Brass, Metal

Marc D Haenens Unique Coffee Table with Pink Quartz, circa 1980, Belgium

$8,900

19th Century Belgian Sanglier Table

Located in Chicago, IL

An incredible and alluring primitive 19th century Belgian sanglier (wild boar) butcher's table with

Category

Antique 19th Century Belgian Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

19th Century Belgian Sanglier Table

$8,500

Brutalist Post-War Willy Daro Round Coffee Table, Belgian Modern, Organic, 1970 s

By Willy Daro

Located in Antwerp, BE

Willy Daro; Belgian design; French artist; Post-war: Sculpture; Brutalist; Coffee table; Art

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Brutalist Post-War Willy Daro Round Coffee Table, Belgian Modern, Organic, 1970 s

$4,153

Coffee Table Black Belgian Slate and Marble with Brass Attributed to Paul Kingma

By Paul Kingma

Located in Chicago, IL

Black Belgian Marble and bronze, brass and agate inclusions side or small coffee table resting on 2

Category

20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Belgian Black Marble, Slate, Brass

Coffee Table Black Belgian Slate and Marble with Brass Attributed to Paul Kingma

$3,500

Impressive Brutalist Tile and Solid Steel Coffee Table, Belgium, 1970s

Located in amstelveen, NL

Impressive brutalist one-of-a-kind coffee table. The top is made of tiles green tiles. The base is

Category

Vintage 1970s European Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Steel

Impressive Brutalist Tile and Solid Steel Coffee Table, Belgium, 1970s

$3,856

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s

By Paul Kingma

Located in amstelveen, NL

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s This piece is heavy, forming

Category

Vintage 1970s European Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Slate

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s

$1,720

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s

By Paul Kingma

Located in amstelveen, NL

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s This piece is heavy, forming

Category

Vintage 1970s European Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Slate

Brutalist slate stone and wood hexagonal coffee table, Belgium, 1970s

$1,780

20th Century Polished Metal Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrome, Belgium c.1970

By Belgo Chrome, belgochrom

Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Belgian manufacturer Belgo Chrome (sometimes seen written as Belgo Chrom) have been producing high

Category

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

Materials

Metal

20th Century Polished Metal Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrome, Belgium c.1970

$4,100

Willy Daro Bonsai Tree Coffee Table, Brass Glass, Belgium, 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in ABCOUDE, UT

This incredible sculptural coffee table was created by Belgian designer Willy Daro in the 1970s

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Willy Daro Bonsai Tree Coffee Table, Brass Glass, Belgium, 1970s

$3,738

A "G" Framed Brass Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrom, Belgium, c.1980

By Belgo Chrome

Located in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent

Belgian manufacturer Belgo Chrome (sometimes seen written as Belgo Chrom) have been producing high

Category

20th Century Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

A "G" Framed Brass Glass Coffee Table By Belgo Chrom, Belgium, c.1980

$2,047

Coffee Table with Ceramic Tiles in the Style of Juliette Belarti, Belgium 1960s

By Juliette Belarti

Located in Herentals, BE

The table has a chromed base with teak (imitation veneer) finish. The top of the table has ceramic

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Space Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Coffee Table with Ceramic Tiles in the Style of Juliette Belarti, Belgium 1960s

$1,424

Coffee Table

Located in Dallas, TX

Vintage Brick Baking Pallet on Iron Base as Coffee Table

Category

Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Coffee Table

$3,352

antique, oval "wine" table from Belgium

Located in Houston, TX

Belgian oak tilt top table with interesting proportions. The description if for the larger table

Category

Early 20th Century Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

antique, oval "wine" table from Belgium

$2,475

Oval Bonsai Tree Coffee Table in Bronze and Glass by Willy Daro, Belgium, 1970s

By Willy Daro

Located in Kansas City, MO

Willy Daro coffee table with bronze / brass base and oval glass top with beveled edge. The base is

Category

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

Materials

Bronze

Oval Bonsai Tree Coffee Table in Bronze and Glass by Willy Daro, Belgium, 1970s

$6,850

A Burl Wood Sliding Coffee Table or Bar by Paul Michel, Belgium c.1970

By Paul Michel

Located in Chicago, IL

A sophisticated Italian Midcentury Modern cocktail table and dry bar by Paul Michel. The table

Category

Late 20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

A Burl Wood Sliding Coffee Table or Bar by Paul Michel, Belgium c.1970

$9,200

Live Edge Cocktail Table, Belgium 1960s

Located in Austin, TX

modern, from Belgium, 1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Live Edge Cocktail Table, Belgium 1960s

$3,400

Midcentury Belgian Bluestone Cocktail Table, 1960s

Located in Austin, TX

Midcentury Belgian bluestone cocktail table featuring natural fossil detail. Weighty steel frame

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Brass, Steel

Midcentury Belgian Bluestone Cocktail Table, 1960s

$4,100

Sliced Agate Top Cocktail Table, Belgium, Contemporary

Located in New York, NY

Contemporary Belgian round cocktail table with top of polished pieced or sliced shades of grey

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Sliced Agate Top Cocktail Table, Belgium, Contemporary

$5,950

Extraordinary Etched Brass Cocktail Table Belgium 1980

Located in Camden, ME

Massive cantilevered brass coffee table with a copper insert. Reminiscent of the work of Fernand

Category

20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Extraordinary Etched Brass Cocktail Table Belgium 1980

$22,500

Industrial Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Round industrial drum made into a coffee table. Open grillwork. Add your own glass top to

Category

Vintage 1940s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Industrial Coffee Table

$2,400

Coffee Table

By Pia Manu

Located in Paris, FR

Slate marquetry top on bronze leg.

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Slate, Iron

Coffee Table

$13,500

1950s Belgian Iron Table with Wooden Top

Located in High Point, NC

An iron table with wooden top from Belgium, produced circa 1950. This uniquely charming coffee

Category

Vintage 1950s Belgian French Provincial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

1950s Belgian Iron Table with Wooden Top

$1,595

Signed Belgium Tile Table

Located in North Miami, FL

Signed tile from Belgium circa 1970's.Signed .

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Signed Belgium Tile Table

$975

Cocktail Table with Belgian Bluestone Top, 1960s

Located in Austin, TX

Square legged cocktail table in dark stained wood with 1.25" thick stone top. In this case, the

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Cocktail Table with Belgian Bluestone Top, 1960s

$2,850

Sliced White Agate Top Cocktail Table, Belgium, Contemporary

Located in New York, NY

Contemporary Belgian round cocktail table with top of polished pieced or sliced white agate

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Sliced White Agate Top Cocktail Table, Belgium, Contemporary

$5,950

Customized Coffee Table

Located in Brecht, BE

These coffee tables are made in my workshop, inlay work with old acacia wood, contemporary iron

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Customized Coffee Table

$7,713

Customized Coffee Table

Located in Brecht, BE

These coffee tables are made in my workshop, inlay work with old acacia wood, contemporary iron

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Customized Coffee Table

$7,713

Oak and Bluestone Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1960s

Located in Austin, TX

Natural oak frame and base holds top of Belgian bluestone. Classic bluestone is similar to

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Oak and Bluestone Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1960s

$1,950

Oak Coffee Table

Located in Brecht, BE

Customized coffee table, made out of 1930s oak floaring from a dance hall in France, Contemporary

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Oak Coffee Table

$3,500

Bonsai Coffee Table

Located in Antwerp, BE

Gilded bronze coffee table, two-tone bonsai tree.

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Bonsai Coffee Table

$4,800

Brutalist Oak Stone Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1960 s

Located in Austin, TX

Solid oak framed cocktail table with exposed joinery and inlaid fossilized marble/stone top

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Brutalist Oak Stone Cocktail Table, Belgium, 1960 s

$2,400

Vintage Belgium Etched Brass and Agate Cocktail Table

Located in New York, NY

Vintage Belgium etched brass and agate cocktail table.

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Agate, Brass

Vintage Belgium Etched Brass and Agate Cocktail Table

$15,600

20th Century Belgian Metal Table with Wooden Top

Located in High Point, NC

A 20th century metal table with wooden top produced in Belgium, this low table imparts a rustic

Category

20th Century Belgian Country Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

20th Century Belgian Metal Table with Wooden Top

$2,595

Ceramic Coffee Table

By Roger Capron

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Ceramic coffee table signed Adri, circa 1960.

Category

20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic Coffee Table

$1,305

Steel Cocktail Table by Idir Mecibah, Belgium, 1990

By Idir Mecibah

Located in Austin, TX

Custom crafted hot rolled steel cocktail table with forged legs by Belgian designer Idir Mecibah

Category

1990s Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Steel Cocktail Table by Idir Mecibah, Belgium, 1990

$4,450

Brass Coffee Table

Located in North Miami, FL

A beautiful polished brass table base, circa 1970. This base has an organic quality which is

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Brass Coffee Table

$3,400

Tables Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Tables

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Belgium Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a range of Belgium coffee tables for sale on 1stDibs. The range of distinct Belgium coffee tables — often made from metal, brass and glass — can elevate any home. There are 958 antique and vintage Belgium coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 103 modern editions to choose from as well. Belgium coffee tables have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency and Modern Belgium coffee tables are consistently popular styles. There have been many well-made Belgium coffee tables over the years, but those made by Willy Daro, Belgo Chrome and belgochrom are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much are Belgium Coffee Tables?

Prices for Belgium coffee tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, Belgium coffee tables begin at $300 and can go as high as $108,000, while the average can fetch as much as $3,450.

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 Belgium Coffee Tables

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.
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.
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.
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.

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Why are modern coffee tables so low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.
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.
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.

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