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 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.

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 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 a tray top coffee table?

Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do you style an oval coffee table?

To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.

How much does a coffee table cost?

On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.

When did coffee tables become popular?

Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.

What is the standard size of a coffee table?

There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety 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.

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.

Black Coffee Tables

Faina Furniture

Chinese Black And Gold Lacquered

Willy Rizzo Alveo

Black Walnut Furniture

Matching Side Tables

Thomas Throop

Carte Blanche

Chinese Wood Table Glass Top

Category

Vintage 1970s American Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Elegant Black Marble Regency Style Coffee Table by Baker

$3,800

Perret Coffee Table in Black Oak by Atelier Jones

Located in København S, DK

three-legged bent steel base. The table is made in New Zealand. The steel base and a timber top can be

Category

2010s New Zealand Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Perret Coffee Table in Black Oak by Atelier Jones

$2,064 / item

Italian Coffee Table

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Amazing Coffee Table, in black lacquer and stainless steel. Italy, 1970s

Category

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

Materials

Stainless Steel

Italian Coffee Table

$4,800

Vintage Mid Century Modern Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Coffee Table

Located in Chicago, IL

Vintage Mid Century Modern Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Coffee Table with Mother Of Pearl Inlays A

Category

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

Materials

Mother-of-Pearl, Wood, Lacquer

Vintage Mid Century Modern Black Lacquer Chinoiserie Coffee Table

$675

Vintage Coastal Black Lacquer Pencil Reed Swan Coffee Table

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Fantastic vintage Coastal coffee table. Beautiful black lacquer high gloss finish. A fabulous swan

Category

Late 20th Century North American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Reed, Glass, Lacquer

Vintage Coastal Black Lacquer Pencil Reed Swan Coffee Table

$1,450

Secreto 85 Coffee Table, Black “Forville” by Colé Italia

Located in Geneve, CH

Secreto 85 coffee table, black “Forville” by Colé Italia Dimensions: H.32; base plate ø 85, top ø

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Oak, Walnut

Secreto 85 Coffee Table, Black “Forville” by Colé Italia

$2,432 / item

Metate Black Wood Coffee Table by David Del Valle

Located in Geneve, CH

Metate Black Wood Coffee Table by David Del Valle Dimensions: D 100 x W 100 x H 30 cm. Materials

Category

2010s Colombian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Metate Black Wood Coffee Table by David Del Valle

$11,094 / item

Sleek Maison Jansen Style Brass Black Granite Coffee Table

Located in Hopewell, NJ

A sleek elegant rectangular coffee table having striking warm rubbed bronze finish brass offset by

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Streamlined Moderne Coffee and Co...

Materials

Granite, Brass

Sleek Maison Jansen Style Brass Black Granite Coffee Table

$1,950

Statement Black Rectangular Coffee Table - Fundamenta 32 by NONO

By NONO

Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX

Statement Black Rectangular Coffee Table - Fundamenta 32 by NONO Sculptural coffee table made of

Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Statement Black Rectangular Coffee Table - Fundamenta 32 by NONO

$7,992 Sale Price / item

20% Off

Jacques Adnet Black Leather Coffee Table, France 1950 s

By Jacques Adnet

Located in New York, NY

Large coffee tables in stitched leather and brass, the top is covered in leather and the second

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Jacques Adnet Black Leather Coffee Table, France 1950 s

$45,000

Bliss Coffee Table

By Koket

Located in Manassas, VA

The Bliss Coffee Table combines artistic flair and refined craftsmanship, featuring sweeping

Category

2010s European Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Bliss Coffee Table

$28,500 / item

Contour Coffee Table in Black Ceruse by Stamford Modern

By Stamford Modern

Located in Westport, CT

Introducing our Contour Coffee Table – a modern masterpiece inspired by the work of Iconic Italian

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Glass, Oak

Contour Coffee Table in Black Ceruse by Stamford Modern

$5,800 / item

Turi Turi Coffee Table Pitch Black by La Cividina

By La Cividina

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

The traditional flat caps worn by Sicilian men inspired the elegant top of this coffee table, which

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Turi Turi Coffee Table Pitch Black by La Cividina

$730 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Oval Table Walnut Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Oval Table Walnut Black

$1,134 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Square Table Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Square Table Maple Black

$1,134 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Rectangular Table Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Rectangular Table Maple Black

$1,008 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Round Table Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Round Table Maple Black

$1,050 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Table Rectangular Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Table Rectangular Maple Black

$1,134 / item

Clarke Industrial Coffee Table Oval Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

The Clarke Collection comes in ten different table top sizes, two wood species, and two metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Clarke Industrial Coffee Table Oval Maple Black

$1,008 / item

Large Low Charcoal Black Single Form Coffee / Sofa Table - Customisable

By Jo Wilton and Mirka Grohn

Located in Leicester, GB

The large Single Form coffee table is an elemental design with a focus on form and function. Made

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Large Low Charcoal Black Single Form Coffee / Sofa Table - Customisable

$2,461

Willy Rizzo style Black Formica and Brass Coffee Table / Cocktail table, 1970s

By Willy Rizzo

Located in Dublin 8, IE

A striking Italian coffee table from the 1970s, attributed to Willy Rizzo. The square form is

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Willy Rizzo style Black Formica and Brass Coffee Table / Cocktail table, 1970s

$9,486

GUBI Pedrera Coffee Table Black Base by Cosini Ruiz Millet

By Gubi, Joaquim Ruiz Millet

Located in New York, NY

The Pedrera Coffee Table was originally designed in 1955 by renowned architect Barba Corsini for

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cock...

Materials

Metal

GUBI Pedrera Coffee Table Black Base by Cosini Ruiz Millet

$1,599 / item

Ross Clear Glass Coffee Table Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

with tempered glass. Offered in matte black and white.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Steel

Ross Clear Glass Coffee Table Maple Black

$1,154 / item

Ross Clear Glass Coffee Table Walnut Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

with tempered glass. Offered in matte black and white.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Steel

Ross Clear Glass Coffee Table Walnut Black

$1,154 / item

Ross Smoked Glass Coffee Table Maple Black

Located in Cincinnati, US

with tempered glass. Offered in matte black and white.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Co...

Materials

Steel

Ross Smoked Glass Coffee Table Maple Black

$1,259 / item

Basalto coffe table

By Le Berre Vevaud

Located in Paris, IDF

Top in extra-clear glass Feet in a glossy metal black lacquered. Dimension (cm) : Ø 90 x H 40

Category

2010s Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Basalto coffe table

$3,441

Architectural Black Nero Travertine Marble Pedestal Coffee Table

Located in Farmington Hills, MI

clean lines and substantial materials, this piece functions beautifully as a coffee table or a bold

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine, Marble

Architectural Black Nero Travertine Marble Pedestal Coffee Table

$1,050

Black Lacquer Chinese-Style Coffee Table with Travertine Top

Located in Long Island City, NY

A black lacquer midcentury coffee table with an elegant Chinese profile. We have recently replaced

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Black Lacquer Chinese-Style Coffee Table with Travertine Top

$5,700

American Modern Geometric Black Glass and Brass Coffee Table

Located in Queens, NY

American Modern design rectangular geometric faceted form black glass coffee table with brass

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail T...

Materials

Brass

American Modern Geometric Black Glass and Brass Coffee Table

$32,500

Poul Kjærholm PK61 Coffee Table with Black Slate Top

By E. Kold Christensen, Poul Kjærholm

Located in Kastrup, DK

Poul Kjærholm 1929-1980. PK61 coffee table with four legs matte chrome-plated steel frame and a

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Slate, Steel

Poul Kjærholm PK61 Coffee Table with Black Slate Top

$5,363

Square Coffee Table with Glass Top Black Wood Frame

Located in Chicago, IL

This simple wood and glass coffee table was inspired by a Hungarian Art Deco design from Budapest

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hungarian Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

Square Coffee Table with Glass Top Black Wood Frame

$3,800 Sale Price

44% Off

Jet Black Blos Low Coffee Table by Karim Rashid

Located in Geneve, CH

Jet Black Blos Low Coffee Table by Karim Rashid Dimensions: D 42 x W 55 x H 32 cm. Materials

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Other

Jet Black Blos Low Coffee Table by Karim Rashid

$747 / item

Sample Sale Coffee Table Unique Organic Black Modern Contemporary Steel

By J.M. Szymanski

Located in Bronx, NY

Table No. 5 - Coffee J.M. Szymanski This coffee table is composed of stark, perpendicular planes

Category

2010s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Iron

Sample Sale Coffee Table Unique Organic Black Modern Contemporary Steel

$6,800 / item

1990s Postmodern Glass Waterfall Sculptural Black Circular Wood Coffee Table

By Massimo Vignelli

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Postmodern Glass Waterfall Edge Sculptural Coffee Table. Stunning table features a graceful

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

1990s Postmodern Glass Waterfall Sculptural Black Circular Wood Coffee Table

$1,895

Jet Black Amore Coffee Table by Giò Colonna Romano

Located in Geneve, CH

Jet Black Amore Coffee Table by Giò Colonna Romano Dimensions: D 70 x W 160 x H 46 cm. Materials

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Other

Jet Black Amore Coffee Table by Giò Colonna Romano

$4,449 / item

Coffee table in Zimbabwe black granite and large Brazilian agate

Located in CHOISY-LE-ROI, FR

Large free-form coffee table in Zimbabwe black granite with the inclusion of a large Brazilian

Category

2010s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Agate, Granite, Brass

Coffee table in Zimbabwe black granite and large Brazilian agate

$4,271

Circular Coffee/Side Table Organic Black Modern Contemporary Blackened Steel

By J.M. Szymanski

Located in Bronx, NY

TABLE NO. 15 - COFFEE TABLE J.M. Szymanski d. 2019 This Noguchi-inspired coffee table is

Category

2010s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Iron

Circular Coffee/Side Table Organic Black Modern Contemporary Blackened Steel

$17,505 / item

Wrought Metal Black Stone Square Coffee Table, France, 1970s

Located in Rīga, LV

Black Wabi Sabi stone tabletop with wrought metal base. Weighty item.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Iron

Wrought Metal Black Stone Square Coffee Table, France, 1970s

$3,322

Belvedere Black Beside Myself Square Coffee Table by Claste

Located in Geneve, CH

Belvedere Black Beside Myself Square Coffee Table by Claste Dimensions: D 106.7 x W 106.7 x H 35.6

Category

2010s Canadian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Belvedere Black Beside Myself Square Coffee Table by Claste

$14,772 / item

Black Indoor Small Pebble Coffee Table by Kenneth Cobonpue

By Kenneth Cobonpue

Located in Geneve, CH

Black small pebble coffee table by Kenneth Cobonpue. Materials: Black, sapele, steel. Also

Category

2010s Philippine Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Black Indoor Small Pebble Coffee Table by Kenneth Cobonpue

$691 / item

Black Indoor Medium Pebble Coffee Table by Kenneth Cobonpue

By Kenneth Cobonpue

Located in Geneve, CH

Black Medium Pebble coffee table by Kenneth Cobonpue. Materials: Black, sapele, steel. Also

Category

2010s Philippine Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Black Indoor Medium Pebble Coffee Table by Kenneth Cobonpue

$835 / item

Inlaid Coffee Table

By CPRN HOMOOD

Located in Milan, IT

Featuring inlaid veneer in a reflected Hungarian herringbone pattern, the inlaid coffee table gives

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Other

Inlaid Coffee Table

$13,755 / item

Jet Black Low Lita Coffee Table by Paola Navone

Located in Geneve, CH

Jet Black Low Lita Coffee Table by Paola Navone Dimensions: D 74 x W 90 x H 35 cm. Materials

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Other

Jet Black Low Lita Coffee Table by Paola Navone

$1,696 / item

Jet Black Kami Ni Coffee Table by Marc Sadler

Located in Geneve, CH

Jet Black Kami Ni Coffee Table by Marc Sadler Dimensions: D 73 x W 73 x H 35 cm. Materials

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Other

Jet Black Kami Ni Coffee Table by Marc Sadler

$2,195 / item

Coffee table in chromed metal, black glass top and black lacquered wooden feet

By Dino Gavina

Located in Roma, RM

Coffee table in chromed metal, black glass top and black lacquered wooden feet, by Dino Gavina

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Coffee table in chromed metal, black glass top and black lacquered wooden feet

$2,990

2023 Marcel Breuer for Knoll Laccio Coffee Table in Black

By Marcel Breuer, Knoll

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This is a Laccio Tubular Chromed-Steel Coffee Table, Model 50T2, initially designed by Marcel

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Chrome

2023 Marcel Breuer for Knoll Laccio Coffee Table in Black

$800 / item

Coffee table Matisse in black Zimbabwean granite handcrafted in France

Located in CHOISY-LE-ROI, FR

Large coffee table in Zimbabwe black granite and reconstituted white marble in a motif inspired by

Category

2010s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Granite, Marble, Brass

Coffee table Matisse in black Zimbabwean granite handcrafted in France

$4,271

Coffee table in black Zimbabwean granite and Spanish Pyrite cubes

Located in CHOISY-LE-ROI, FR

Large coffee table in black Zimbabwean granite with Pyrite cubes in the center, forming an abstract

Category

2010s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Granite, Pyrite, Brass

Coffee table in black Zimbabwean granite and Spanish Pyrite cubes

$4,627 / item

Raffia Cloth Covered Rectangular Glass Top Coffee Table Black

By Harrison Van Horn

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Mid-Century Modern raffia covered rectangular glass top coffee table.

Category

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

Materials

Raffia, Glass

Raffia Cloth Covered Rectangular Glass Top Coffee Table Black

$3,600

Shirudo Round Coffee Table/ Side Table, Black Varnished Iron Finish by Mingardo

Located in Geneve, CH

Shirudo Round Coffee Table/ Side Table, Black Varnished Iron Finish by Mingardo Dimensions: D 90 x

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Shirudo Round Coffee Table/ Side Table, Black Varnished Iron Finish by Mingardo

$2,349 / item

Indergrowth Coffee Table

Located in Paris, FR

Coffee table Undergrowth with structure in baked glass, top with irregular edges. All the glass

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Indergrowth Coffee Table

$12,933 / item

Black Bamboo Design Pair Glass Top Coffee Tables, France, 1960s

Located in New York, NY

1960s French pair black metal bamboo design legs with gold gilt trim and glass top coffee tables

Category

Vintage 1960s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Black Bamboo Design Pair Glass Top Coffee Tables, France, 1960s

$5,500 / set

Black Walnut Custom Clear Epoxy Resin Coffee Table

Located in İnegöl, TR

Walnut Wood Clear Epoxy Coffee Table Presenting our Epoxy Coffee Table – a true sample of

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Resin, Epoxy Resin, Wood, Walnut

Black Walnut Custom Clear Epoxy Resin Coffee Table

$1,900 / item

Black Lacquer and Glass Geometric Square Coffee Cocktail Table Postmodern

Located in New York, NY

A very beautiful geometric square coffee/cocktail table in black lacquer with glass top, Postmodern

Category

Vintage 1980s European Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood

Black Lacquer and Glass Geometric Square Coffee Cocktail Table Postmodern

$2,450

Black Gold Eternel Coffee Table by Milla Milli

Located in Geneve, CH

Black Gold Eternel Coffee Table by Milla & Milli Signed by Maša Vukmanović, Jelena Lukač Kirš

Category

2010s Croatian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Black Gold Eternel Coffee Table by Milla Milli

$7,783 / item

ST742 - Coffee Table

By CPRN HOMOOD

Located in Ponsacco, IT

A rectangular coffee table with a marble top, composed of different pieces of marble arranged

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Metal

ST742 - Coffee Table

$16,730 / item

Osvaldo Borsani Coffee Table Black Opal Glass Wood 1930 Italy

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Milano, IT

Osvaldo Borsani coffee table black opal glass wood 1930 Italy.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Opaline Glass

Osvaldo Borsani Coffee Table Black Opal Glass Wood 1930 Italy

$5,339

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Black Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a range of black coffee tables for sale on 1stDibs. Each of these unique black coffee tables was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, wood and glass. Find 2984 antique and vintage black coffee tables at 1stDibs now, or shop our selection of 1229 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished furniture. Black 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. Black coffee tables bearing Mid-Century Modern or Modern hallmarks are very popular at 1stDibs. If space is limited, there are small black coffee tables measuring 1 inches across. Black coffee tables have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Willy Rizzo, Paul Evans and Emeco are consistently popular.

How Much are Black Coffee Tables?

Prices for black coffee tables start at $1 and top out at $125,000 with the average selling for $3,326.

Finding the Right Coffee And 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 Black Coffee Tables

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 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.
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 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 a tray top coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
When did coffee tables become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.
What is the standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety 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.
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.

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