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.

Who invented the coffee table?

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

What size should a coffee table be?

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

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

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

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.

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

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

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

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

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

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

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

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

What is the 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.

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.

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.

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.

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

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

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

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

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

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

Pair Coffee Table

Modular Side Table

Vintage Rattan End Table

Marquetry Of Cubes

Chinese Lacquered Cocktail Table

Category

2010s Portuguese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic, Oak

Handmade Off-White Ceramic Coffee Table with Oak Top

$2,099 / item

Tip Natural Oak, Flamed Copper Coffee Table by DOLOMITISCH

Located in Geneve, CH

rise from the metal tops. With peaks and summits of varying heights, the pair of coffee tables draw

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

Tip Natural Oak, Flamed Copper Coffee Table by DOLOMITISCH

$15,311 / item

20th Century Italian Metal Coffee Table with Artistic Enamel Top

Located in High Point, NC

This 20th century Italian metal coffee table pairs minimalist structure with expressive artistic

Category

20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Enamel

20th Century Italian Metal Coffee Table with Artistic Enamel Top

$1,195

Midcentury Square Lucite Coffee Table with Chromed Metal Details

Located in Miami, FL

Pair of midcentury square lucite coffee tables with chromed metal details. We have matching

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Square Lucite Coffee Table with Chromed Metal Details

$2,675

Midcentury Square Lucite Coffee Table with Chromed Metal Details

Located in Miami, FL

Pair of midcentury square lucite coffee tables with chromed metal details. We have matching pair

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Square Lucite Coffee Table with Chromed Metal Details

$2,140 Sale Price

20% Off

Mid-Century Octagonal Cipollino Ondulato Marble Coffee Table Italy

Located in DE MEERN, NL

: Minimalist Chic: Pair this exquisite marble coffee table with sleek, modern furniture to create a minimalist

Category

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

Materials

Stone, Travertine, Marble

Mid-Century Octagonal Cipollino Ondulato Marble Coffee Table Italy

$3,598

Set of 2 Coffee Tables in Aluminum, Brass Glass, 1970s

Located in Andrézieux-Bouthéon, FR

Coffee Tables in Aluminum, Brass & Glass, 1970s Set of 2 Vintage Design Pair of designer coffee

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Set of 2 Coffee Tables in Aluminum, Brass Glass, 1970s

$2,440 / set

Giacomo Sinopoli brushed brass stainless steel coffee tables 1970s

By Giacomo Sinopoli, Liwan s Rome

Located in Paris, IDF

Simple lines and strong presence point to this pair of Italian coffee tables. Designed by Giacomo

Category

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

Materials

Brass, Steel

Giacomo Sinopoli brushed brass stainless steel coffee tables 1970s

$20,999 / set

The Dreamers Long Coffee Table by Uto Balmoral Mogg

By Uto Balmoral, Mogg

Located in New York, NY

oak. The Dreamers are a pair of coffee tables composed of drawers, the idea of the creation of these

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ash

The Dreamers Long Coffee Table by Uto Balmoral Mogg

$1,864 / item

The Dreamers Wide Coffee Table by Uto Balmoral Mogg

By Uto Balmoral, Mogg

Located in New York, NY

. The Dreamers are a pair of coffee tables composed of drawers, the idea of the creation of these coffee

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ash

The Dreamers Wide Coffee Table by Uto Balmoral Mogg

$1,864 / item

Vintage Brutalist Style Sculpted Round Coffee Table in Aged Oak

Located in Burlăceni, Cahul District

instincts of the maker. With its restrained geometry and tactile finish, this coffee table pairs well with

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Moldovan Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Vintage Brutalist Style Sculpted Round Coffee Table in Aged Oak

$4,199 / item

Country Style Rattan Coffee Table with Removable Serving Tray Top

Located in Yonkers, NY

Evoking a sense of relaxed, country charm, this vintage coffee table pairs artisanal craftsmanship

Category

Late 20th Century Country Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Country Style Rattan Coffee Table with Removable Serving Tray Top

$980

Ole Wanscher for Poul Jeppesens Mobelfabrik Danish Teak Surfboard Coffee Table

By Glostrup Møbelfabrik, Ole Wanscher, Grete Jalk, Poul Jeppesens Møbelfabrik

Located in Chattanooga, TN

side tables that would pair nicely with this coffee table (sold separately). 65” Long x 23.25” Deep x

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Ole Wanscher for Poul Jeppesens Mobelfabrik Danish Teak Surfboard Coffee Table

$2,396 Sale Price

20% Off

Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern “American Leisure” Walnut Coffee Table

By Kroehler Mfg. Co.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

” walnut coffee table by Kroehler, c.1960’s, embodies the playful elegance of mid-century design. The long

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern “American Leisure” Walnut Coffee Table

$1,895

Italian mid-century modern coffe tables in brass and glass, 1960s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern coffe tables in brass and glass, 1960s Pair of coffee tables with double

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Italian mid-century modern coffe tables in brass and glass, 1960s

$2,879 / set

Pair of round Travertine cocktail table

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Pair of round travertine cocktail table, crca 1980 (We can sell only one upon request)

Category

Vintage 1980s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine

Pair of round Travertine cocktail table

$5,999

"Aline" Travertine and Oak Wedge Leg Coffee Table by Christiane Lemieux

Located in New York, NY

Aline Wedge-Leg Coffee Table pairs solid oak and hand-selected travertine in a composition of balance

Category

2010s Vietnamese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine

"Aline" Travertine and Oak Wedge Leg Coffee Table by Christiane Lemieux

$2,680 / item

Round Brutalist Ceramic Coffee Table by Roger Capron, France 1960

By Roger Capron

Located in DE MEERN, NL

minimalist ethos of Japandi design by pairing this coffee table with low-profile seating, neutral tones, and

Category

Vintage 1960s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cast Stone

Round Brutalist Ceramic Coffee Table by Roger Capron, France 1960

$4,678

Italian mid-century modern stackable metal and glass coffee tables, 1940s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern stackable metal and glass coffee tables, 1940s Pair of rectangular

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Italian mid-century modern stackable metal and glass coffee tables, 1940s

$1,229 / set

René Herbst Pair of side tables/ bedside tables 1943

Located in Saint Ouen, FR

René Herbst Pair of side tables/ bedside tables Designed and produced for the Maison de la Chimie

Category

Vintage 1940s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

René Herbst Pair of side tables/ bedside tables 1943

$1,187

Andrianna Shamaris High Quality Petrified Wood Sculpture or Coffee Table

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

the same log. These would be stunning as a pair of coffee tables or a single coffee table. The size

Category

2010s Indonesian Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Andrianna Shamaris High Quality Petrified Wood Sculpture or Coffee Table

$7,500

Italian late 19th-century style coffe tables in finely crafted wood, 1930s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian late 19th-century style coffe tables in finely crafted wood, 1930s Pair of coffee tables

Category

Vintage 1930s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian late 19th-century style coffe tables in finely crafted wood, 1930s

$1,679 / set

Pair of Adirondack-Style Twig Tables

Located in Chicago, IL

A chic pair of contemporary low tables, designed with a nod to the 19th century American Adirondack

Category

20th Century American Adirondack Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Pair of Adirondack-Style Twig Tables

$3,800 / set

Mid-20th Century Oval Coffee Tables, attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, Italy

Located in New York, NY

A pair of elegant coffee tables in teakwood, attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, dating to the 1950s

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Mid-20th Century Oval Coffee Tables, attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, Italy

$18,600

Arflex Solar Coffee Table in Fiberglass by Carlo Bartoli, Italy, 1960s

By Arflex, Carlo Bartoli

Located in Antwerp, BE

Italian elegance to any environment. Originally imported to the U.S. by Stendig, this coffee table pairs

Category

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

Materials

Resin, Fiberglass, Polyester

Arflex Solar Coffee Table in Fiberglass by Carlo Bartoli, Italy, 1960s

$950

Wonderful Pair Painted Occasional Lamp Tables

Located in Swadlincote, GB

A super pair of French three tier original painted and gilt occasional lamp tables, wonderful shape

Category

Antique 19th Century French Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Beech

Wonderful Pair Painted Occasional Lamp Tables

$1,644 / set

Peter Hvidt Orla Mølgaard Nielsen "AX" Coffee Table, Denmark 1950s

By Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen, Peter Hvidt, Fritz Hansen

Located in Utrecht, NL

design. For decades, the pair created sleek coffee tables - like this piece - that are characterised by

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Peter Hvidt Orla Mølgaard Nielsen "AX" Coffee Table, Denmark 1950s

$3,300

Tip Burnt Black Oak, Brushed Black Chrome Coffee Table by DOLOMITISCH

Located in Geneve, CH

Tip Burnt Black Oak, Brushed Black Chrome Coffee Table by DOLOMITISCH Dimensions: D 60 x H 59 cm

Category

2010s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Tip Burnt Black Oak, Brushed Black Chrome Coffee Table by DOLOMITISCH

$12,407 / item

Pair of marble top side tables

Located in Cheshire, GB

Pair of side tables, the well-figured marble tops with moulded edge, to the freeze with gilt metal

Category

Early 20th Century British Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Pair of marble top side tables

$3,798 Sale Price / set

20% Off

Round Modern Side Tables, Pair

Located in Greenwich, CT

Our stiletto cocktail side tables are lacquered in white and pastel pink. Together or apart they

Category

2010s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Maple

Round Modern Side Tables, Pair

$3,800 / set

Pair of 1970s Postmodern Side Tables

Located in Miami, FL

Introduce a dash of the 1970s to your living space with our pair of Postmodern tubular chrome and

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Pair of 1970s Postmodern Side Tables

$2,375

Italian modern Coffee tables in smoked glass and chromed metal, 1980s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian modern Coffee tables in smoked glass and chromed metal, 1980s Pair of coffee tables with

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Italian modern Coffee tables in smoked glass and chromed metal, 1980s

$1,199 / set

Mid-century Peter Ghyczy Rectangular Brass Glass Oak Coffee Table 1970

By Peter Ghyczy

Located in DE MEERN, NL

styles. Styling Options Mid-Century Classic: Pair this coffee table with vintage-inspired furniture

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Mid-century Peter Ghyczy Rectangular Brass Glass Oak Coffee Table 1970

$2,398

Paul T. Frankl Amoeba cloud coffee table Johnson Furniture Company - USA, 1940s

By Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl

Located in London, GB

, Frankl’s strikingly modern Amoeba coffee table pairs a biomorphic natural waxed cork top with slanted

Category

Vintage 1940s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cork

Paul T. Frankl Amoeba cloud coffee table Johnson Furniture Company - USA, 1940s

$30,556

Palladio, pair of Italian cocktail tables

By Palladio

Located in S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL

Pair of Palladio cocktail tables. Gild and silvered bases in wood and iron with a glass top. On top

Category

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

Materials

Iron

Palladio, pair of Italian cocktail tables

$2,099 / item

Karl Springer, Mid-Century Modern, Large Coffee Table, Gunmetal, Brass, 1980s

By Karl Springer

Located in Manhasset, NY

holder. Glass measures 60 inches by 60 inches. This is one of a pair of compatible coffee tables by this

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Brass

Karl Springer, Mid-Century Modern, Large Coffee Table, Gunmetal, Brass, 1980s

$13,200 Sale Price

20% Off

Pair of Drink Tables / Side Tables / Martini Tables with Handles, Gilt Iron

Located in Barcelona, ES

Pair Spanish Brutalist Drink Tables, wrought iron Gilt patinated brutalist Martini tables with

Category

20th Century Spanish Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Iron, Wrought Iron

Pair of Drink Tables / Side Tables / Martini Tables with Handles, Gilt Iron

$5,759 / set

Northern European Midcentury Wood Yellow and Black Formica Coffee Tables, 1960s

Located in MIlano, IT

Northern European mid-century wood, yellow and black formica coffee tables, 1960s Pair of coffee

Category

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

Materials

Formica, Wood

Northern European Midcentury Wood Yellow and Black Formica Coffee Tables, 1960s

$1,619 / set

Konstantin Grcic, Pair of Side Tables

Located in Saint ouen, FR

Konstantin Grcic - pair of side tables DIANA C table Classicon Edition Lacquered steel

Category

Early 2000s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Konstantin Grcic, Pair of Side Tables

$1,679

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

a pair of coffee tables. A contemporary creation of fine quality. Colour: Coffee Material

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

$1,079 / item

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Wenge Oak

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Wenge Oak

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Natural Oak

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Natural Oak

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Polished Brass and Estremoz

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Stone, Brass

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Polished Brass and Estremoz

$2,398 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Wenge Oak

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Wenge Oak

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Natural Walnut

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The New Air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Natural Walnut

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Natural Walnut

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with Black and Natural Walnut

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Natural Oak

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Wood Top with White and Natural Oak

$1,272 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with White Metal and Estremoz

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Marble, Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with White Metal and Estremoz

$2,398 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Black Metal and Estremoz

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Marble, Metal

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Black Metal and Estremoz

$2,398 Sale Price / item

20% Off

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Polished Copper and Estremoz

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The new air coffee table with stone top or wood top is an elegant modem coffee table, pairing a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Marble, Copper

New Air Coffee Table, Stone Top with Polished Copper and Estremoz

$2,398 Sale Price / item

20% Off

Pair of side tables by Joaquim Tenreiro

By Joaquim Tenreiro

Located in London, England

Pair of side tables by Joaquim Tenreiro.

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Hardwood

Pair of side tables by Joaquim Tenreiro

Price Upon Request

Italian Modern Stand or Coffee Tables in Black Lacquered Wood, 1990s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian modern Stand or Coffee tables in black lacquered wood, 1990s Pair of coffee tables with

Category

1990s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Modern Stand or Coffee Tables in Black Lacquered Wood, 1990s

$839 / set

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

two sizes and can be used as a single coffee table or stand together as a pair of coffee tables. A

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

$1,559 / item

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

together as a pair of coffee tables. A contemporary creation of fine quality. Colour: Bone white Material

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Coffee Table, End of Sofa in Aluminium, Model Crown, Tall, Contemporary Work.

$1,079 / item

Italian art deco wooden coffee tables with tray on the top, 1900s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian art deco coffee tables, 1900s Pair of service tables or coffee tables entirely made of wood

Category

Antique Early 1900s Italian Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian art deco wooden coffee tables with tray on the top, 1900s

$2,399 / set

Berta Dark Concrete Top and Dark Oak Legs Coffee Table by Eberhart Furniture

Located in Geneve, CH

use it as a standalone centerpiece or pair it with our Daphne coffee table for a more dynamic and

Category

2010s Danish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Concrete, Metal

Berta Dark Concrete Top and Dark Oak Legs Coffee Table by Eberhart Furniture

$1,367 / item

Berta Light Concrete Top and Light Oak Legs Coffee Table by Eberhart Furniture

Located in Geneve, CH

use it as a standalone centerpiece or pair it with our Daphne coffee table for a more dynamic and

Category

2010s Danish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Concrete

Berta Light Concrete Top and Light Oak Legs Coffee Table by Eberhart Furniture

$1,367 / item

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Pair Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic pair coffee table available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of metal, wood and glass, every pair coffee table was constructed with great care. There are 1039 variations of the antique or vintage pair coffee table you’re looking for, while we also have 57 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. There are many kinds of the pair coffee table you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. A pair coffee table made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Modern — is very popular. A well-made pair coffee table has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Maison Jansen, Knoll and Florence Knoll are consistently popular.

How Much is a Pair Coffee Table?

Prices for a pair coffee table can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $295 and can go as high as $65,274, while the average can fetch as much as $3,969.

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 Pair 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.
Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

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

Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What size should a coffee table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
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.
What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

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

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

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

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