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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Curved Coffee Table

Fiam Italia

Curved Wood Furniture

Curved Glass Top

Chinese Lacquered Cocktail Table

Fiam Glass Table

Solid Wood Cocktail Table

Brass Tray Table Legs

Tavolino Fontana Arte

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan

Mid-Century Rattan Coffee Table after Albini

$850

Iron Coffee Table with Ebonized Limestone Top

By Brendan Bass

Located in Dallas, TX

Modern coffee table with curved iron base and ebonized limestone top. Dimensions, stone type

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Limestone, Iron

Iron Coffee Table with Ebonized Limestone Top

$4,390

Brazilian Coffee Table in Wood and Dark Glass

Located in Milano, IT

realization and workmanship of curved wood. The coffee table in the table top we find a glass oval that serves

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Brazilian Coffee Table in Wood and Dark Glass

$4,156

Paolo Piva Attributed Black Wire Corner Coffee Table

By Paolo Piva, B&B Italia

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Sweeping curved architectural coffee table with plate glass tops. In original condition.

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Paolo Piva Attributed Black Wire Corner Coffee Table

$3,500

Midcentury Danish Modern Kurt Østervig Teak Coffee Table

By Kurt Østervig

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern teakwood coffee table. Curved raised edge rectangular table. V

Category

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

Midcentury Danish Modern Kurt Østervig Teak Coffee Table

$1,799

Den Boer Gouda ‘Attributed’ Side or Coffee Table

By W. Lutjes den Boer Gouda

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Handsome Den Boer Gouda (attributed) early production curved wood coffee table with glass top and

Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood

Den Boer Gouda ‘Attributed’ Side or Coffee Table

$895

Modern Glass Vintage Coffee Table Sofa Table Genio Massimo Iosa Ghini, Italy

By Massimo Iosa Ghini, FIAM

Located in Vienna, AT

, which based on the curved use. The coffee table is signed and marked with signature and company label

Category

1990s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Modern Glass Vintage Coffee Table Sofa Table Genio Massimo Iosa Ghini, Italy

$5,760

Midcentury Bamboo and Rattan Italian Rectangular Coffee Table, 1960s

By Tito Agnoli

Located in Roma, IT

Beautiful midcentury Italian coffee table in curved rattan, bamboo and wicker. This lovely French

Category

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

Materials

Bamboo, Wicker, Rattan

Midcentury Bamboo and Rattan Italian Rectangular Coffee Table, 1960s

$831

Sculptural Karl Springer Style Lacquered Waterfall Coffee Table, 1980s

By Karl Springer

Located in Lambertville, NJ

1980s sculptural curved waterfall wood coffee table covered in a neutral beige tone gloss laminate

Category

Vintage 1980s Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Laminate, Wood

Sculptural Karl Springer Style Lacquered Waterfall Coffee Table, 1980s

$1,200

Mid century walnut coffee table by Jack Cartwright for Founders

By Jack Cartwright

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

century modern coffee table with curved lip ends. Made in USA Circa 1960. Located in Brooklyn NYC

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Mid century walnut coffee table by Jack Cartwright for Founders

$2,800

1940s Mahogany and Leather Pagoda Top Greek Key Coffee Table

Located in Chicago, IL

Asian inspired coffee table with curved edge tops and tooled leather inlay. The fronts and finished

Category

Vintage 1940s American Chinese Chippendale Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Leather, Mahogany

1940s Mahogany and Leather Pagoda Top Greek Key Coffee Table

$4,250

Restored Arthur Umanoff Solid Walnut Magazine Rack Surfboard Coffee Table

By Arthur Umanoff, Grete Jalk

Located in Chattanooga, TN

table of all time. This solid walnut coffee table has been delicately restored. The FMV restoration

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Restored Arthur Umanoff Solid Walnut Magazine Rack Surfboard Coffee Table

$2,396

Cocktail Coffee Table Post Modern Lacquer after Karl Springer 1980 s

By Karl Springer

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

lacquered coffee table with curved construction reminiscent of the Karl Springer Kytoto table. Currant red

Category

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

Materials

Lacquer, Wood

Cocktail Coffee Table Post Modern Lacquer after Karl Springer 1980 s

$3,200

Mid-Century Modern Large Wooden Scroll Coffee Table Baughman Style, 1960s

By Milo Baughman

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

For your consideration is a stunning, curved wood coffee table, in the style of Milo Baughman

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Modern Large Wooden Scroll Coffee Table Baughman Style, 1960s

$3,500

Hampton Tessellated Stone Coffee Table by Marquis Collection of Beverly Hills

By Marquis Collection of Beverly Hills 1

Located in Los Angeles, CA

'Hampton' tessellated stone coffee table by Marquis Collection of Beverly Hills would work great in a Post

Category

1990s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Hampton Tessellated Stone Coffee Table by Marquis Collection of Beverly Hills

$3,700

1950s Italian Oval Two-Tiered Coffee Table in Bamboo, Rattan and Glass

Located in New York, NY

lovely curve of the coffee table bottom tier are lined in a natural sophisticated Vienna straw. This

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Cane, Rattan, Glass

1950s Italian Oval Two-Tiered Coffee Table in Bamboo, Rattan and Glass

$4,600

Midcentury Coffee Table in Steel, Wood Glass by Francois Monnet, France, 1970s

By François Monnet

Located in Rome, IT

Midcentury gorgeous squared coffee table in curved brushed steel, wood and smoked glass top

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Steel

Midcentury Coffee Table in Steel, Wood Glass by Francois Monnet, France, 1970s

$2,612

Italian Sidetable with curved Legs in Walnut and Glass, 1950s

Located in Uithoorn, NL

With its curved legs this coffeetable is one of the more typical pieces from the 1950s. The organic

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Italian Sidetable with curved Legs in Walnut and Glass, 1950s

$2,900

Midcentury Oval Rattan and Bamboo Dutch Coffee Table with Glass Top, 1950s

By Rohe Noordwolde

Located in Roma, IT

coffee table features curved legs in bamboo, a lower shelf in rattan and a top one in glass. This

Category

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

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan, Glass

Midcentury Oval Rattan and Bamboo Dutch Coffee Table with Glass Top, 1950s

$1,484

French Riviera Coffee Table by Tito Agnoli in Rattan and Bamboo, Italy 1960s

By Tito Agnoli

Located in Roma, IT

Spectacular midcentury round coffee table in curved bamboo, rattan and hand-woven wicker. This

Category

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

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan, Wicker

French Riviera Coffee Table by Tito Agnoli in Rattan and Bamboo, Italy 1960s

$1,722

Coffee Table in Steel and Glass by Francois Monnet for Kappa, France, 1970s

By Kappa, François Monnet

Located in Rome, IT

Midcentury gorgeous rectangular coffee table in curved brushed steel and smoked glass top by

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Steel

Coffee Table in Steel and Glass by Francois Monnet for Kappa, France, 1970s

$2,731

Kaizo Oto for DIA Bronze Powdercoated Curved Steel Teardrop Glass Post-Modern

By Design Institute America, Kaizo Oto

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This dynamic coffee table is by Kaizo Oko for DIA and has a stunning curved shape. The steel base

Category

1990s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Kaizo Oto for DIA Bronze Powdercoated Curved Steel Teardrop Glass Post-Modern

$3,000

Neoclassical Style Fluted Brass and Glass Cocktail Table

By Maison Baguès

Located in Lambertville, NJ

Mid-Century French Maison Bagues style brass and glass coffee table. Curved oval shaped base

Category

Vintage 1960s Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Neoclassical Style Fluted Brass and Glass Cocktail Table

$1,200

Space Age Coffee Table and Bar Cart with Tablet from Curver Rotobar

Located in Saarbrücken, SL

removable tray. The 100% original and excellent condition makes this Curver a rarity. 1970's - Made by

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Space Age Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Metal

Space Age Coffee Table and Bar Cart with Tablet from Curver Rotobar

$1,425

Early 20th century Jugend oak coffee table with copper top

Located in BARCELONA, ES

of utility without sacrificing style. The smooth, curved lines of the vintage coffee table suggest a

Category

Early 20th Century Side Tables

Materials

Copper

Early 20th century Jugend oak coffee table with copper top

$1,555

Vintage Milo Baughman Burled Curve Circle Sofa and Coffee Table

By Milo Baughman

Located in Chicago, IL

plinth base to give a floating appearance like the coffee table. A work of art from the 1970s in the burl

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Vintage Milo Baughman Burled Curve Circle Sofa and Coffee Table

$12,500

Curved Leg Bamboo and Wicker Storage Chest/Coffee Table/Blanket Chest

Located in Douglas Manor, NY

3-1012 Hand crafter wicker and bamboo storage chest. Curved sides can also be used as a coffee

Category

Mid-20th Century Blanket Chests

Materials

Bamboo, Wicker

Curved Leg Bamboo and Wicker Storage Chest/Coffee Table/Blanket Chest

$1,100

Carl Straub Slate Coffee Table 1960s Germany

By Carl Straub

Located in Den Haag, NL

Very nice coffee table. Curved dark brown oak frame. Comes with a Black Slate top. The structure

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Slate

Carl Straub Slate Coffee Table 1960s Germany

$1,484

1960s Large Fontana Arte Decorative Centrepiece

By Fontana Arte

Located in Florence, Tuscany

piece of glass into a beautiful curved bowl. Perfect for a coffee table or mantlepiece and in excellent

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Glass, Art Glass, Blown Glass

1960s Large Fontana Arte Decorative Centrepiece

$1,128

"Curved Table Object II" by Hun-Chung Lee

Located in New York, NY

"Curved Table Object II" in carved concrete and ceramic.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Korean Coffee and Cocktail Tables

"Curved Table Object II" by Hun-Chung Lee

Round Art Deco side table raised on three curved legs

Located in New York, NY

Round Art Deco side table raised on three curved legs. Polished oak. France, circa 1932.

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Round Art Deco side table raised on three curved legs

$4,200

Beautiful Classically Inspired Steel and Brass Coffee Table

Located in Larkspur, CA

Beautiful classically inspired steel and brass coffee table with curved crossbar base of steel and

Category

Late 20th Century French Classical Greek Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Beautiful Classically Inspired Steel and Brass Coffee Table

$3,400

Low Sho-Gun table by Roger Capron

Located in New York, NY

an ebonized low / coffee table. Elegant curved corners of the table reflect the uniquely shaped

Category

Vintage 1970s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Ceramic

Low Sho-Gun table by Roger Capron

$8,500

A Dunbar Curved Coffee Table with Leather Top.

Located in New York, NY

The extended curved coffee table, with a leather top, raised on four cylindrical legs with a

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Leather

A Dunbar Curved Coffee Table with Leather Top.

Johannes Andersen Coffee Table

By Johannes Andersen

Located in Phoenix, AZ

Unique Mid-Century curved coffee table designed by Johannes Andersen for Trensum, Sweden. Very good

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Johannes Andersen Coffee Table

$1,875

Coffee Table by Finn Juhl

By Finn Juhl

Located in Hudson, NY

Large, curved coffee table with 3/4" raised lip to edge. Walnut frame with inset sycamore top

Category

Vintage 1950s American Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut, Sycamore

Coffee Table by Finn Juhl

$4,500

Marble and Brass Curved Coffee Table, France 1980

Located in Firenze, IT

Natural brass structure with curved marble top, the tabletop is just inlaid to the 2 sides curved

Category

Vintage 1980s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Marble and Brass Curved Coffee Table, France 1980

$2,731

Brazilian Rosewood Coffee Table

Located in Southampton, NY

Rectangular, curved coffee table with gorgeous Brazilian rosewood surface; latticed lower tier.

Category

Vintage 1960s Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Brazilian Rosewood Coffee Table

$750

French Art Deco Palisander Curved Coffee Table/ Glass Top

Located in Hialeah, FL

French Art Deco Palisander with Black Lacquer, Large Coffee Table with thick Tempered Glass Top.

Category

Vintage 1940s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Glass

French Art Deco Palisander Curved Coffee Table/ Glass Top

$4,200

Louis XV Style Coffee Table with Jasmine Marquetry French Napoleon III Period

Located in Saint Ouen, FR

decorative Louis XV style curved coffee table, with exquisitely all-around flowers inlaid marquetry, known as

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century French Louis XV Card Tables and Tea Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble, Bronze

Louis XV Style Coffee Table with Jasmine Marquetry French Napoleon III Period

$6,235

Curved Bamboo Coffee Table

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage curved bamboo coffee table or bench.

Category

Late 20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Curved Bamboo Coffee Table

$2,750

Curved burgundy stained coffee table

Located in New York, NY

Curved burgundy stained coffee table with glass top and three brass feet, Argentina, c.1950.

Category

Vintage 1950s Argentine Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Curved burgundy stained coffee table

$5,500

Vintage Curved Edge Bamboo Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Vintage Bamboo Coffee Table Ribbed Bamboo with Rounded Corners

Category

Vintage 1960s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bamboo

Vintage Curved Edge Bamboo Coffee Table

$1,485

Nickel and Curved Glass Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Square polished nickel stock forms a chamfered corner table base. The curved "corners" of the frame

Category

Vintage 1960s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Nickel and Curved Glass Coffee Table

$6,800

Coffee Table on Curved Chrome Legs

Located in Budapest, HU

Revamp your living room with this chic and sophisticated coffee table, guaranteed to catch the eye

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Coffee Table on Curved Chrome Legs

$700

Curved Aluminium Coffee Table, Italy, Late 1960s

Located in Brussels, BE

Curved aluminium coffee table, Italy, late 1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Curved Aluminium Coffee Table, Italy, Late 1960s

$2,019

Rare Marquetry Coffee Table with Curved Apron

Located in Birmingham, AL

Walnut Marquetry Design Coffee Table With Curved Apron

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Rare Marquetry Coffee Table with Curved Apron

$3,900

French Aluminum Curved Corner Rectangular Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Vintage French aluminum curved corner rectangular coffee table with smoke glass. As this piece

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

French Aluminum Curved Corner Rectangular Coffee Table

$1,800

Max Kuehne Coffee table with curved legs

Located in New York, NY

Max Kuehne (1880-1868) Coffee table of graceful shape, with curved legs.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Gesso

Max Kuehne Coffee table with curved legs

$8,800

Vintage Curved Plaster and Lucite Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Vintage plaster sculptural coffee table. Warm beige color. Coffee table has lucite base. Minimal

Category

Vintage 1980s Unknown Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Lucite, Plaster

Vintage Curved Plaster and Lucite Coffee Table

$1,400

Walnut Slab Coffee Table With Curved Steel Base.

Located in Dallas, TX

Walnut slab coffee table or bench with custom curved steel base.

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Walnut Slab Coffee Table With Curved Steel Base.

$1,350

Striking Trioh Teak Coffee Table Curved Caned Shelf

By Trioh

Located in New Westminster, British Columbia

This totally killer Danish modern teak coffee table was manufactured by Trioh in the 1960s

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Striking Trioh Teak Coffee Table Curved Caned Shelf

$1,895

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

Located in Hollywood, CA

A beautiful solid Caviuna coffee table with rounded edges and sculptural base with an inset glass

Category

Vintage 1950s Brazilian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

$4,500

Midcentury Curved Sculptural Walnut and Glass Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A stunning curvy sculptural walnut based coffee table with glass top. Incredibly clean and sleek

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Midcentury Curved Sculptural Walnut and Glass Coffee Table

$1,650

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

Located in Hollywood, CA

beautiful solid Caviuna coffee table with rounded edges and sculptural base with an inset glass top

Category

Vintage 1950s Brazilian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

$4,500

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

Located in Hollywood, CA

A beautiful solid Caviuna coffee table with rounded edges and sculptural base with an inset glass

Category

Vintage 1960s Brazilian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

$5,500

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

By Giuseppe Scapinelli

Located in Hollywood, CA

Beautiful solid Caviuna coffee table with rounded edges and sculptural base with an inset glass top

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Curved solid Caviuna glass coffee table Scapinelli attribution

$5,500

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Curved Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic curved coffee table available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of glass, wood and metal, every curved coffee table was constructed with great care. Find 79 options for an antique or vintage curved coffee table now, or shop our selection of 16 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer curved coffee table, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. When you’re browsing for the right curved coffee table, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Art Deco styles are of considerable interest. A well-made curved coffee table has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by FIAM, Angelo Cortesi and Iconic Design Gallery are consistently popular.

How Much is a Curved Coffee Table?

Prices for a curved coffee table start at $100 and top out at $23,414 with the average selling for $2,779.

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 Curved Coffee Table

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.
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.
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.
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 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.

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