Can a coffee table be too low?

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

Who invented the coffee table?

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

What size should a coffee table be?

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

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

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

Why is it called a coffee table?

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

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

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

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

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

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

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

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

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

How do you date a Lane coffee table?

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

What is a tall coffee table called?

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

What is the best height for a coffee table?

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

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

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

What is the average height of a coffee table?

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

Are glass coffee tables durable?

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

Patina Coffee Table

Cire Perdue

Chow Legs Table

Thai Siamese Carved Wood

R And Y Augousti Frames

Patina Italy

Kinder Collection

Art Deco Rattan Table

Shell Inlay Table

Category

Antique 19th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

Antique Elm Wood Coffee Table Original Patina

$3,290

Antique Teak Wood Coffee Table Original Patina

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Vintage antique Teak wood bench or coffee table. Unique thick teak wood top, with natural age and

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Antique Teak Wood Coffee Table Original Patina

$2,490

Brustlin Workshop Coffee Table in Distressed Patina

Located in Ross, CA

Coffee table made by Richard Allen Brustlin (1935-2020) a master finisher and guilder who inspired

Category

Early 2000s North American French Provincial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Brustlin Workshop Coffee Table in Distressed Patina

$1,200

River Stone Coffee Table Ebony Patina Base

Located in Dallas, TX

This coffee table offers organic shape and texture with found river stone weighing approximately

Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Metal

River Stone Coffee Table Ebony Patina Base

$16,900

Vintage Sculptural Coffee Table with Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

This sculptural table made in France in the 20 century exudes the raw energy of a sculpture. The

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Vintage Sculptural Coffee Table with Original Patina

$1,595

Provincial Elm Coffee Table in Original Patina

Located in Dallas, TX

This piece is a part of Brendan Bass’s one-of-a-kind collection, Le Monde. French for “The World”, the Le Monde collection is made up of rare and hard to find pieces curated by Brend...

Category

20th Century Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Provincial Elm Coffee Table in Original Patina

$2,600

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Vintage antique elm wood coffee table with beautiful antique weathered patina top. These are the

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

$1,807

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Vintage antique elm wood coffee table with beautiful antique weathered patina top. These are the

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

$799

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

Located in Old Town Orange, CA

Vintage antique elm wood coffee table with beautiful antique weathered patina top These are the

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

Vintage Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Patina

$1,950

19THC HARVEST/COFFEE TABLE WITH OLD NATURAL PATINA

Located in Los Angeles, CA

WONDERFUL 19THC HARVEST TABLE ADJUSTED FOR COFFEE TABLE WITH GREAT OLD PATINA /GREAT ORIGINAL

Category

Antique 19th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Pine

19THC HARVEST/COFFEE TABLE WITH OLD NATURAL PATINA

Vintage 1940 s Mirrored Coffee Table - Wonderful Patina

Located in Atlanta, GA

Vintage Antiqued Mirror Coffee Table, circa 1940's. The vintage antiqued mirror has a wonderful

Category

Vintage 1940s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Vintage 1940 s Mirrored Coffee Table - Wonderful Patina

$4,500

French Brutalist Coffee Table with Beautiful Patina, 1970s

Located in Oirlo, LI

. The wood of the table has a beautiful patina that gives the whole table a warm glow. The design is

Category

Vintage 1970s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

French Brutalist Coffee Table with Beautiful Patina, 1970s

$690

1950s French Wooden Coffee Table with Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

A wooden coffee table from 1950s France. Curved, fluted legs create an impression of Neoclassical

Category

Vintage 1950s French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

1950s French Wooden Coffee Table with Original Patina

$995

Metallic patina, black top industrial cart/coffee table

Located in New York, NY

A square industrial cart with a wonderful etallic patina. The black wood top has bumps and

Category

Early 20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Metallic patina, black top industrial cart/coffee table

$1,900

Metallic patina, black top industrial cart/coffee table

Located in New York, NY

An almost square industrial cart with a wonderful metallic patina. Wheels on one side and usual

Category

Early 20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Metallic patina, black top industrial cart/coffee table

$1,600

1960 Brutalist Coffee Table in Wrought Iron, Verdigris Patina

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

1960 Brutalist coffee table in wrought iron, verdigris patina. This coffee table is designed

Category

Vintage 1960s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

1960 Brutalist Coffee Table in Wrought Iron, Verdigris Patina

$4,564

Modernist Patinaed Steel Coffee Table with Open Travertine Top

By Brendan Bass

Located in Dallas, TX

Modernist Patinaed steel coffee table with open travertine top Dimensions, stone type and metal

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine, Steel

Modernist Patinaed Steel Coffee Table with Open Travertine Top

$5,390 / item

Antique Rustic Butcher Top Coffee Table with Dark Patina

Located in Round Top, TX

It is the rough-hewn, primitive and heavily distressed top that fill this coffee table with such

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Swedish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique Rustic Butcher Top Coffee Table with Dark Patina

$2,200

20th Century African Wooden Coffee Table With Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

This 20th Century African Wooden Coffee Table with Original Patina offers a captivating blend of

Category

20th Century African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

20th Century African Wooden Coffee Table With Original Patina

$1,795

Antique Primitive Slab Wood Coffee Table with Dark Patina

Located in Round Top, TX

It is the very deep gouges, nicks and scrapes in this thick topped coffee table that fill it with

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Hungarian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique Primitive Slab Wood Coffee Table with Dark Patina

$1,300

18th Century French Wooden Coffee Table With Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

Introducing the timeless elegance of the 18th Century French Wooden Coffee Table, a true artifact

Category

Antique 18th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

18th Century French Wooden Coffee Table With Original Patina

$1,795

Japanese Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Driftwood Patina

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Low profile, clean lines, Japanese Elmwood coffee table with straight legs and side stretchers

Category

Antique 19th Century Japanese Primitive Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

Japanese Elm Wood Coffee Table with Natural Driftwood Patina

$5,915

Contemporary Burmese Scroll Coffee Table with Underglaze Beige Snakeskin Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

patina and round nailheads. Created in Burma, this contemporary coffee table charms us with its scrolling

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Burmese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Contemporary Burmese Scroll Coffee Table with Underglaze Beige Snakeskin Patina

$2,250

Maison Ramsay French Patina Gold Leaf Wrought Iron Coffee Table

By Maison Ramsay

Located in Chicago, IL

Maison Ramsay superb patina gold leaf wrought iron rectangular coffee table with a lightly tinted

Category

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

Maison Ramsay French Patina Gold Leaf Wrought Iron Coffee Table

$4,500

19th Century Chinese Walnut Coffee Table Dark Patina, Rustic Rectangle

Located in IT

This antique 19th-century Chinese walnut coffee table exudes timeless character with its rich, dark

Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Qing Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

19th Century Chinese Walnut Coffee Table Dark Patina, Rustic Rectangle

$2,750

20th Century Spanish Wooden Metal Coffee Table With Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

Introducing a masterful blend of rustic wood and metal, this 20th Century Spanish Coffee Table is

Category

20th Century Spanish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

20th Century Spanish Wooden Metal Coffee Table With Original Patina

$1,995

20th Century French Wooden Round Coffee Table In Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

This 20th Century French wooden round coffee table exudes rustic character and authenticity

Category

20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

20th Century French Wooden Round Coffee Table In Original Patina

$1,995

RALPH LAUREN SAFARI BROWN CROCODILE ALLIGATOR PATiNA LEATHER COFFEE TABLE

By Ralph Lauren

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

dyed cigar brown Crocodile patina leather X framed coffee or cocktail table with Lion's had central

Category

20th Century English Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

RALPH LAUREN SAFARI BROWN CROCODILE ALLIGATOR PATiNA LEATHER COFFEE TABLE

$4,065

Indonesian Antique Coffee Table with Bulging Chow Legs and Distressed Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

. With its nice proportions and lovely patina, this Indonesian antique coffee table will bring a touch of

Category

Early 20th Century Indonesian Tribal Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Indonesian Antique Coffee Table with Bulging Chow Legs and Distressed Patina

$3,900

Vintage Indonesian Rustic Coffee Table with Baluster Legs and Distressed Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

An Indonesia vintage coffee table from the mid 20th century, with distressed patina. Created in

Category

Mid-20th Century Indonesian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Vintage Indonesian Rustic Coffee Table with Baluster Legs and Distressed Patina

$2,500

Maison Ramsay Superb Patina Gold Leaf Wrought Iron Rectangular Coffee Table

By Maison Ramsay

Located in Chicago, IL

Maison Ramsay superb patina gold leaf wrought Iron rectangular coffee table with a lightly tinted

Category

Vintage 1940s French Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Maison Ramsay Superb Patina Gold Leaf Wrought Iron Rectangular Coffee Table

$9,000

English 1800s Elm Coffee Table with Two Drawers and Distressed Patina

Located in Atlanta, GA

An English elm coffee table from the early 19th century, with two drawers and distressed patina

Category

Antique Early 19th Century English Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Elm

English 1800s Elm Coffee Table with Two Drawers and Distressed Patina

$6,575

Chinese Vintage Wooden Waterfall Coffee Table with Distressed Patina and Scrolls

Located in Yonkers, NY

nicely weathered patina will make this Chinese vintage waterfall coffee table an excellent choice to

Category

Mid-20th Century Chinese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Chinese Vintage Wooden Waterfall Coffee Table with Distressed Patina and Scrolls

$2,800

Coffee Table Gold Patina Metal Base and Egypt Stone Top, 1970

Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR

vintage condition, it has a nice general patina. Restoration: the top of this coffee table was polished

Category

Vintage 1970s French American Classical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Metal

Coffee Table Gold Patina Metal Base and Egypt Stone Top, 1970

$2,162

French Dark Patina Metal with an Églomisé Glass Top Coffee Table

Located in Long Island City, NY

French 1970s gun dark patinated brass base coffee table with an églomisé glass top.

Category

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

French Dark Patina Metal with an Églomisé Glass Top Coffee Table

$4,500

Mid-Century Modern Patina Brass and Glass Round Coffee Table, 1960s

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

For your consideration is a beautiful, round coffee table, with a glass top on a patinated brass

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Patina Brass and Glass Round Coffee Table, 1960s

$900

Pair of Coffee Tables in Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Pair of coffee tables in carved wood, patinated brown red inspired by Louis XIV forms, work of a

Category

Vintage 1950s French Louis XIV Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Pair of Coffee Tables in Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina

$6,366 / set

Swedish Brutalist Tree Trunk Coffee Table, nice patina 1940s Handmade Unique

By Axel Vervoordt

Located in Forest, BE

table, a coffee table or a stand for a sculpture

Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Swedish Brutalist Tree Trunk Coffee Table, nice patina 1940s Handmade Unique

$2,702

Chinese Vintage Large Coffee Table with Bulging Chow Legs and Walnut Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

A vintage Chinese long coffee table from the mid-20th century, with chow legs and walnut patina

Category

Mid-20th Century Chinese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

Chinese Vintage Large Coffee Table with Bulging Chow Legs and Walnut Patina

$3,200

Chinese Long Coffee Table with Elmwood Patina, Scrolled Feet and Humpback Apron

Located in Yonkers, NY

A Chinese antique long coffee table from the early 20th century, with elmwood patina, humpback

Category

Early 20th Century Chinese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan, Elm

Chinese Long Coffee Table with Elmwood Patina, Scrolled Feet and Humpback Apron

$3,750

Coffee Table with Top Crafted from Reclaimed Oak Ebony Patina Steel Base

By Brendan Bass

Located in Dallas, TX

Coffee table with top crafted from reclaimed oak & ebony patina steel base.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Coffee Table with Top Crafted from Reclaimed Oak Ebony Patina Steel Base

$5,990

Chinese Antique Coffee Table with Natural Patina, Bulging Legs and Waisted Apron

Located in Yonkers, NY

An antique Chinese coffee table from the early 20th century, with natural patina and bulging legs

Category

Early 20th Century Chinese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Chinese Antique Coffee Table with Natural Patina, Bulging Legs and Waisted Apron

$4,200

Large Vintage Thai Ming Dynasty Style Teak Coffee Table with Natural Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

A large Thai vintage Chinese Ming Dynasty style teak wood coffee table from the mid 20th century

Category

Mid-20th Century Thai Ming Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Large Vintage Thai Ming Dynasty Style Teak Coffee Table with Natural Patina

$4,500 / item

South Asian Provincial Teak Serving Plateau on Ebony Patina Mount Coffee Table

Located in Dallas, TX

South Asian Provincial teak serving plateau on ebony patina mount coffee table. Piece from our

Category

20th Century Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

South Asian Provincial Teak Serving Plateau on Ebony Patina Mount Coffee Table

$6,990

Chinese Ming Dynasty Style Coffee Table with Natural Patina and Chow Legs

Located in Yonkers, NY

A vintage Chinese Ming dynasty style coffee table from the mid-20th century, with pierced apron and

Category

Mid-20th Century Chinese Ming Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Chinese Ming Dynasty Style Coffee Table with Natural Patina and Chow Legs

$4,500

Coffee Table in Parchment with Bronze Patina Brass by R&Y Augousti

By R Y Augousti

Located in West Hollywood, CA

The Square Parson Coffee Table by R&Y Augousti is a refined embodiment of minimalist luxury

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Brass

Coffee Table in Parchment with Bronze Patina Brass by R&Y Augousti

$8,540

Vintage Burr Walnut Coffee Table with Green Distressed Leather Top Lovely Patina

By Regency

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for sale this very good looking vintage Burr Walnut coffee table with

Category

20th Century English Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Leather, Walnut

Vintage Burr Walnut Coffee Table with Green Distressed Leather Top Lovely Patina

$937

Large Burr Walnut Cocktail Coffee Low Table Nicely Carved Legs Great Patina

By Minotti

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for auction this stunning burr walnut centre occasional table with Lion

Category

20th Century English Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Burl

Large Burr Walnut Cocktail Coffee Low Table Nicely Carved Legs Great Patina

$1,102

STUNNING EXTRA LARGE RALPH LAUREN BURR ELM COFFEE COCKTAIL TABLE LOVELY PATiNA

By Ralph Lauren

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

large, Ralph Lauren Burr Elm coffee or cocktail table. Please note the delivery fee listed is just a

Category

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

Materials

Elm

STUNNING EXTRA LARGE RALPH LAUREN BURR ELM COFFEE COCKTAIL TABLE LOVELY PATiNA

$5,305

Vintage Lost Wax Cast Bronze Twig Style Coffee Table Base with Bronze Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

A vintage lost wax cast bronze twig coffee table base from the mid 20th century, with bronze patina

Category

Mid-20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Vintage Lost Wax Cast Bronze Twig Style Coffee Table Base with Bronze Patina

$1,950 / item

Vintage Lost Wax Cast Bronze Triple Heron Coffee Table Base with Dark Patina

Located in Yonkers, NY

bronze patina, this vintage triple heron coffee table base will make for an excellent addition to any

Category

Mid-20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Vintage Lost Wax Cast Bronze Triple Heron Coffee Table Base with Dark Patina

$1,500 / item

Coffee Table with Top Crafted from Reclaimed Oak and Ebony Patina Steel Base

Located in Dallas, TX

Coffee table with top crafter from reclaimed oak and ebony patina steel base. Piece from our one

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail...

Materials

Steel

Coffee Table with Top Crafted from Reclaimed Oak and Ebony Patina Steel Base

$3,655 / item

Vintage French Louis XVI Style Gilded Coffee Table and Curio Case Great Patina

Located in BENSENVILLE, IL

French Louis XVI Style Coffee Table, with Opening Glass Top to create a Curio Display Case. What

Category

Vintage 1930s French Louis XVI Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood, Giltwood

Vintage French Louis XVI Style Gilded Coffee Table and Curio Case Great Patina

$2,963

Lovely Burr Walnut Art Deco Style Coffee Table Lovely Timber Patina Part Suite

By Harry Lou Epstein Furniture Co

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for sale this lovely Art Deco style octagonal coffee table A very well

Category

20th Century English Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

Lovely Burr Walnut Art Deco Style Coffee Table Lovely Timber Patina Part Suite

$1,653

Stunning Burr Satinwood Two-Drawer Coffee Table Stunning Patina Part of a Suite

Located in West Sussex, Pulborough

We are delighted to offer for sale lovely Burr Satinwood two drawer coffee table which is part of a

Category

20th Century English Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Burl

Stunning Burr Satinwood Two-Drawer Coffee Table Stunning Patina Part of a Suite

$1,860

Coffee Table Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina Inspired by Louis XIV Forms

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Coffee table carved wood, patinated brown red inspired by Louis XIV Forms, work of a Parisian

Category

Vintage 1950s European Louis XIV Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee Table Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina Inspired by Louis XIV Forms

$3,363

Coffee Table Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina Inspired by Louis XIV Forms

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Coffee table carved wood, patinated brown red inspired by Louis XIV Forms, work of a Parisian

Category

Vintage 1950s French Louis XIV Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee Table Carved Wood, Antique Red Brown Patina Inspired by Louis XIV Forms

$3,363

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Patina Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal patina coffee table for your home. Frequently made of metal, wood and brass, every patina coffee table was constructed with great care. Find 68 options for an antique or vintage patina coffee table now, or shop our selection of 38 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a patina coffee table — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A patina coffee table is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Art Deco, Modern and Mid-Century Modern styles are sought with frequency. A well-made patina coffee table has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by R Y Augousti, Brendan Bass and Maison Ramsay are consistently popular.

How Much is a Patina Coffee Table?

Prices for a patina coffee table can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $375 and can go as high as $29,000, while the average can fetch as much as $3,599.

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 Patina Coffee Table

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

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

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

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

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

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

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