What size should a coffee table be?

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

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

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

Can a coffee table be too low?

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

Who invented the coffee table?

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

Why is it called a coffee table?

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

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.

Are glass coffee tables durable?

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

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

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

How do you date a Lane coffee table?

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

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

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

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

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

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

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

Why are modern coffee tables so low?

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

What is the average height of a coffee table?

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

What is the best height for a coffee table?

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

Surf Coffee Table

Walnut Surfboard Table

Adrian Pearsall Travertine

Adirondack Style Furniture

Surfing 1960s

Category

Vintage 1960s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic Surf Coffee Table by Roger Capron, France, Circa 1960s

$11,722

H 9.45 in W 45.28 in D 12.6 in

Gilt Faux Bamboo Metal Coffee Table with Surf Board Glass Top

Located in Chicago, IL

Excellent design and patina, this gilt metal bamboo form coffee table features a unique diamond

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Gilt Faux Bamboo Metal Coffee Table with Surf Board Glass Top

$2,600 Sale Price

20% Off

H 15.75 in W 65.3 in D 21.75 in

John Widdicomb Wm a Berkey Travertine and Walnut Surf Board Style Coffee Table

By John Widdicomb, William A. Berkey Furniture Co.

Located in Brooklyn, NY

One beautiful surfboard style 2 tier coffee table by William a Berkey Furniture - John Widdicomb

Category

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

Materials

Travertine, Brass

John Widdicomb Wm a Berkey Travertine and Walnut Surf Board Style Coffee Table

$2,400

H 19 in W 54 in D 24 in

Long Surf Board Boat Shape Terrazzo Top Oiled Walnut Base Floating Top

By Adrian Pearsall, Harvey Probber

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Floating terrazzo top oiled walnut base long surfboard shape coffee table Kagan decor.

Category

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

Materials

Terrazzo, Walnut

Long Surf Board Boat Shape Terrazzo Top Oiled Walnut Base Floating Top

$5,400

H 13 in W 72 in D 20 in

Vintage Mid Century Modern Painted Walnut Waterfall Base Glass Top Coffee Table

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage Mid Century Modern Painted Walnut Waterfall Base Shaped Glass Top Surf Board Coffee Table

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Vintage Mid Century Modern Painted Walnut Waterfall Base Glass Top Coffee Table

$695

H 15.5 in W 54 in D 20 in

Recent Sales

Surf Board Coffee Table

By Mats Christeen

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This made to order surfboard inspired coffee table is perfect for any beach aficionado. The top's

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Surf Board Coffee Table

H 17 in W 42 in D 16 in

1960 s Surf Board Coffee Table

Located in San Francisco, CA

Beautiful Mid-Century vintage coffee table, made from a surf board. Golden brown wood tones with

Category

20th Century Unknown Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

1960 s Surf Board Coffee Table

H 11 in W 64 in D 20 in

Unique Concrete Surfing Board Table or Bench by Lee Hun Chung, 2009

By Lee Hun Chung

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Made of Concrete and Stone

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Unique Concrete Surfing Board Table or Bench by Lee Hun Chung, 2009

H 10.2 in W 69.7 in D 27.6 in

Midcentury 1970s Light Beech Coffee Table with Beautiful Magazine Rack

Located in Lábatlan, HU

Original midcentury surf board style long coffee table. This light maple coffee table is set on top

Category

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

Materials

Beech

Midcentury 1970s Light Beech Coffee Table with Beautiful Magazine Rack

H 19.69 in W 47.25 in D 19.69 in

Aldo Tura Oval Surf Coffee Table with Rocket Base

By Aldo Tura

Located in Munich, DE

Aldo Tura oval surf goatskin table with two brass rocket bases and golden lines into the top made

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Aldo Tura Oval Surf Coffee Table with Rocket Base

H 15.75 in W 51.19 in D 15.75 in

Rosewood Coffee Table Surf Board Shape, circa 1950

Located in London, GB

Small rosewood coffee table in shape of surf board.

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Rosewood Coffee Table Surf Board Shape, circa 1950

H 16.15 in W 13.78 in D 43.31 in

Adirondack Style Natural Wood Surf Board Coffee table

Located in Chicago, IL

Petite Adirondack style coffee table constructed of natural wood legs and a center cut, live edge

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Adirondack Style Natural Wood Surf Board Coffee table

H 12.25 in W 64.5 in D 10 in

Mid Century Teak Danish Style Surf Board Coffee Table

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Introducing our stunning Mid Century Teak Danish Style Surf Board Coffee Table, the perfect

Category

Vintage 1960s British Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Teak Danish Style Surf Board Coffee Table

H 19 in W 47.5 in D 21.5 in

Mid Century Long Surf Board Style Travertine Stone Coffee Table

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Asheville, NC

Vintage sleek coffee table made of walnut base and Travertine stone top in excellent vintage

Category

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

Materials

Travertine

H 16 in W 72 in D 24.25 in

Elliptical Teak Wood Coffee Table In The Manner Of Finn Juhl

Located in Chicago, IL

Elliptical surf board style coffee table with knife edge teak wood top mounted on four solid teak

Category

Vintage 1960s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Elliptical Teak Wood Coffee Table In The Manner Of Finn Juhl

H 18.5 in W 70.5 in D 29.5 in

Double Parabola Teak Coffee Table in the Manner of Finn Juhl

By Finn Juhl

Located in Chicago, IL

Elliptical surf board style coffee table with knife edge teakwood top mounted on four solid teak

Category

Vintage 1960s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

H 15 in W 50 in D 19 in

"Surf Board" coffee table by Hun-Chung Lee

Located in New York, NY

"Surf Board" coffee table in carved concrete and stone. Designed and made by Hun-Chung Lee, Korea

H 15 in W 72 in D 21 in

Coffee Table Designed by Harvey Probber

By Harvey Probber

Located in Tarrytown, NY

Exceptional coffee table, surf board in shape, designed by Harvey Probber in 1957, offered in

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Coffee Table Designed by Harvey Probber

H 16 in W 84 in D 25.5 in

Jacks Coffee Table by Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates

By Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates

Located in Los Angeles, CA

example of a coffee table, with a solid walnut base supporting a thick glass top, was manufactured with

Category

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

Materials

Walnut, Glass

Jacks Coffee Table by Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates

H 16.25 in W 59.5 in D 20.25 in

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Rosso Wall Mirror

By Specchi Veneziani

Located in Milan, IT

Venetian mirror made in the strictest Murano tradition. Assembled with crystal/gold and red elements handmade in the Murano furnaces. Wooden frame with a natural finish.

Category

2010s Italian Renaissance Wall Mirrors

Materials

Glass

Rosso Wall Mirror

$1,390 / item

H 31.5 in W 23.63 in D 1.97 in

Rainbow Leather Meander Chandelier

Located in Pound Ridge, NY

Our Meander Chandelier in glorious ROYGBIV colors. Seven flexible leather wrapped arms allows for playful poses and creative customization. As shown or choose from 25 leather colors...

Category

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Materials

Brass

Rainbow Leather Meander Chandelier

$3,750 / item

H 30 in Dm 30 in

Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik, Table Lamp, Brass, Elm, Sweden, 1940s

By Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik

Located in High Point, NC

A brass and elm table lamp produced by Arvid Böhlmarks Lampfabrik, Sweden, c. 1940s. The brass base and shade presents with light to moderate oxidation. Dimensions of Lamp with Sha...

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

$5,800 Sale Price

20% Off

$1,244 Sale Price

20% Off

H 21.66 in W 47.25 in D 13 in

Brass Chandelier by Rupert Nikoll

By Rupert Nikoll, Emil Stejnar, Bakalowits Söhne, J.T. Kalmar, Ernest Palme

Located in München, DE

Stunningly beautiful chandelier from the 1950s. Lovingly designed by Rupert Nikoll. It creates a very cozy light. Manufacturer: Rupert Nikoll Condition: Very good vintage conditio...

Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Brass Chandelier by Rupert Nikoll

$3,588

H 39.38 in Dm 24.81 in

Get Updated with New Arrivals

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Surf Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic surf coffee table available at 1stDibs. A surf coffee table — often made from wood, metal and hardwood — can elevate any home. Find 10 options for an antique or vintage surf coffee table now, or shop our selection of 1 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer surf coffee table, there are earlier versions available from the 20th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. When you’re browsing for the right surf coffee table, those designed in Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency styles are of considerable interest. Many designers have produced at least one well-made surf coffee table over the years, but those crafted by Aldo Tura, Dunbar and Grete Jalk are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Surf Coffee Table?

Prices for a surf coffee table can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $645 and can go as high as $8,500, while the average can fetch as much as $2,600.

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 Surf Coffee Table

What size should a coffee table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Can a coffee table be too low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

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

Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
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.
Are glass coffee tables durable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do you date a Lane coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Why are modern coffee tables so low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Modern coffee tables tend to be low because they’re most commonly placed in front of couches and chairs. Historically, coffee tables were placed behind the couch which necessitated a taller table. Over time, as styles changed and coffee tables came to be positioned in front of couches, their heights were lowered to accommodate the modern arrangement. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of vintage and contemporary coffee tables from some of the world’s top sellers.
What is the average height of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
The average height of a coffee table is around 16 to 18 inches. Designers typically choose this height to create a balance between coffee tables and sofas. The average seat height of sofas is 17 to 18 inches, and experts typically recommend that coffee tables be no more than 1 inch shorter than sofa-seat height. Explore a diverse assortment of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is the best height for a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.

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