Why is it called a coffee table?

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

Can a coffee table be too low?

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

What size should a coffee table be?

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

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

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

Who invented the coffee table?

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

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

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

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

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

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is a tray top coffee table?

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

How do you style an oval coffee table?

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

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

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

How much does a coffee table cost?

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

When did coffee tables become popular?

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

What is the standard size of a coffee table?

There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Are glass coffee tables durable?

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

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

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

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

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

Tripod Coffee Table

Chinese Tripod

Tripod Gueridon

White Ash Table

Solid Wood Cocktail Table 1960s

Bassano Italy

Netherlands Mid Century Modern

Hand Carved Nesting Tables

Tripod Bronze

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Brass and Lucite Coffee Table circa 1970s

$925

Mid century Coffee table with Copper Top

Located in Paddock Wood Tonbridge, GB

Mid Century circular teak coffee table on tripod base with embossed copper inset top, Scandinavian

Category

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

Materials

Copper

Mid century Coffee table with Copper Top

$1,165

Brutalist Round Coffee Table in Melted Metal

By Paul Evans

Located in Amstelveen, NL

Brutalist coffee table with tripod metal base and round glass top reminiscent of the designs of

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Brutalist Round Coffee Table in Melted Metal

$2,197

Vintage Italian Circular Brass and Marble Coffee Table

Located in Geneva, CH

Vintage specimen tripod marble coffee table inlaid with various colored Italian marbles within a

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Vintage Italian Circular Brass and Marble Coffee Table

$4,800

Rustic Design Oak Side or Coffee Table, France 1940 s

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

constructed, dark stained round side table or small coffee table. Tripod legs with central connection. In very

Category

Vintage 1940s French Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Rustic Design Oak Side or Coffee Table, France 1940 s

$1,045

Wood and Bronze 19th Century Neo Renaissance Tripod, Italy

Located in Milano, IT

Wood and bronze 19th century neo Renaissance tripod standing on moved legs connected by turned

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Renaissance Revival Coffee and Cocktai...

Materials

Bronze

Wood and Bronze 19th Century Neo Renaissance Tripod, Italy

$1,900

Vintage Acrylic Lucite Coffee Table Base after Lion in Frost

Located in Toronto, ON

This graceful and detailed tripod "Butterfly" coffee table base can be mounted with a 36"- 48

Category

Vintage 1980s American Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Acrylic

Vintage Acrylic Lucite Coffee Table Base after Lion in Frost

$950

An Extremely Fine Ottoman Silver Inlaid Coffee Table Vortik Potikian

Located in Benington, Herts

An extremely fine silver inlaid coffee table / tripod table attributed to the Armenian maker

Category

Antique Early 1900s Turkish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Silver

An Extremely Fine Ottoman Silver Inlaid Coffee Table Vortik Potikian

$6,374

Wolfgang Bregentzer Exceptional One-Piece Casting Bronze Coffee Table, 2018

By Wolfgang Bregentzer

Located in Brussels, BE

Exceptional large one-piece casting bronze tripod round coffee table by famous belgian designer

Category

2010s Belgian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Wolfgang Bregentzer Exceptional One-Piece Casting Bronze Coffee Table, 2018

$41,569

Vintage Gilt Metal Sheaf of Wheat Coco Chanel Coffee Table, 1960s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Vintage tripod Coco Chanel coffee table. The table is named after the famous fashion queen

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Vintage Gilt Metal Sheaf of Wheat Coco Chanel Coffee Table, 1960s

$1,110

French Monogrammed Wrought Iron Coffee Table with Glass Top, circa 1930s

Located in Isle Sur La Sorgue, Vaucluse

Elegant small round tripod coffee or side table with a hammered wrought iron base. Raised on

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

French Monogrammed Wrought Iron Coffee Table with Glass Top, circa 1930s

$2,612

Vintage Coffee Table Attributed to W.H. Gispen for Kembo, Holland 1950s

By Gispen Kembo

Located in Chicago, IL

A round tripod metal base coffee table attributed to Willem Hendrik Gispen for Kembo. This table

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Vintage Coffee Table Attributed to W.H. Gispen for Kembo, Holland 1950s

$1,600

French Mid-Century Free Form Wooden Coffee Side Table Produced in France, 1960s

Located in Stockholm, SE

Rare French mid-century wooden tripod coffee / side table in solid elm produced in France ca 1960s

Category

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

Materials

Elm

French Mid-Century Free Form Wooden Coffee Side Table Produced in France, 1960s

$4,156

Art Deco Revival Gold Foil Cocktail Table

Located in Astoria, NY

Art Deco Revival modern cocktail or coffee table on tripod base with gold foil surface and circular

Category

Late 20th Century American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Art Deco Revival Gold Foil Cocktail Table

$1,920

Paul Frankl Manner Black Boomerang Low Table

Located in Astoria, NY

coffee table in the shape of a piano on three triangular legs, similarly lacquered. 14" H x 68" L x 42" D

Category

20th Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Lacquer

Paul Frankl Manner Black Boomerang Low Table

$1,800

Gold Gilt Base, Glass Top Round Cocktail Table, Spain, Midcentury

Located in New York, NY

Midcentury Spanish gold gilt metal tripod leg coffee table with round glass top. Glass top has

Category

Mid-20th Century Spanish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Gold Gilt Base, Glass Top Round Cocktail Table, Spain, Midcentury

$1,800

Set of Three Flying Tables in the Style of Pierre Chapo from 1970

By Pierre Chapo

Located in Gardena, CA

WORK FROM 1970 Set of three flying tables forming coffee table with tripod base holding a top in

Category

Vintage 1970s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Set of Three Flying Tables in the Style of Pierre Chapo from 1970

$2,312

Italian 1950s Kidney Lazy Susan Rotary Tripod Coffee / Side Table

Located in NUEMBRECHT, NRW

Awesome Mid-Century Italian rotary coffee table made of black lacquered wood and cherrywood on

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Cherry, Wood

Italian 1950s Kidney Lazy Susan Rotary Tripod Coffee / Side Table

$1,950

IN TRANSIT

Located in New York, NY

1960's French pieced marble top with brass tripod leg coffee table

Category

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

Materials

Marble, Brass

IN TRANSIT

$6,950

1940s Round Tripod Side or Coffee Table, Beechwood, Engraved Glass, Italy

Located in Girona, Girona

Round tripod side or coffee table, beechwood, French polish, "hinds" pattern engraved glass

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Beech

1940s Round Tripod Side or Coffee Table, Beechwood, Engraved Glass, Italy

$2,791

1970 s Brutalist Round Stone Coffee Table with Chrome Tripod Base

By Poul Kjærholm

Located in Los Angeles, CA

1970's, Stunning brutalist stone side or coffee table with a flat chrome tripod base. The top has a

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Stone, Chrome

1970 s Brutalist Round Stone Coffee Table with Chrome Tripod Base

$1,450

Small Mid Century Tripod Side Coffee Table Made from a Thick Tree Slice

Located in München, DE

Beautiful solid small and low tripod Mid-Century Modern side coffee table made from a thick tree

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Wood

Small Mid Century Tripod Side Coffee Table Made from a Thick Tree Slice

$1,187

Oak Brutalist Dutch Mid-Century Coffee Table

Located in London, GB

A large tripod legged brutalist coffee table. Chunky wood, in great condition. Holland

Category

Mid-20th Century Tables

Materials

Wood

Oak Brutalist Dutch Mid-Century Coffee Table

$1,473

Brutalist Round Solid Oak Coffee Table with Stash Box

By Pierre Chapo

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Brutalist round coffee table with tripod legs and secrete stash box in center of table. Made from

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Oak

Brutalist Round Solid Oak Coffee Table with Stash Box

$2,450

Vintage Gilt Metal Sheaf of Wheat Coco Chanel Coffee Table 1960s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Vintage tripod Coco Chanel coffee table. The table is named after the famous fashion queen

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Hollywood Regency Side Tables

Materials

Metal

Vintage Gilt Metal Sheaf of Wheat Coco Chanel Coffee Table 1960s

$944

Phillip Lloyd Powell Occasional Table

By Phillip Lloyd Powell

Located in Bainbridge, NY

Mid Century small multi purpose Black Walnut Table on tripod legs. Great as Coffee Table or End

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Phillip Lloyd Powell Occasional Table

$4,500

Black Marble Tripod Coffee Table Model Eros by Angelo Mangiarotti

By Angelo Mangiarotti

Located in Brussels, BE

Black marble tripod coffee table model 'Eros' by Angelo Mangiarotti.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Black Marble Tripod Coffee Table Model Eros by Angelo Mangiarotti

$14,846

Round Rattan and Black Metal Tripod Coffee Table France 1950

By Mathieu Matégot, Raoul Guys

Located in Saint Ouen, FR

Rattan and black metal round tripod coffee table from France circa 1950 featuring hand-woven rattan

Category

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

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Round Rattan and Black Metal Tripod Coffee Table France 1950

$2,137

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece is

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,596

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,591

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,596

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,591

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$5,083

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

White tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

White Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,038

Small Tripod Coffee Table by kar

Located in Geneve, CH

Small Black tripod coffee table by kar Dimensions: W 120 x D 64 x H 30 cm Materials: FRP. This

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Small Tripod Coffee Table by kar

$3,384

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,596

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio. Materials: FRP. Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm. This

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,596

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

Located in Geneve, CH

Black tripod coffee table by Karstudio Materials: FRP Dimensions: 150 x 85 x 30 cm This piece

Category

2010s Chinese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Fiberglass

Black Tripod Coffee Table by Karstudio

$4,596

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Tripod Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal tripod coffee table for your home. Frequently made of wood, metal and brass, every tripod coffee table was constructed with great care. If you’re shopping for a tripod coffee table, we have 112 options in-stock, while there are 22 modern editions to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect tripod coffee table — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. When you’re browsing for the right tripod coffee table, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Scandinavian Modern styles are of considerable interest. A well-made tripod coffee table has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Fernweh Woodworking, Fornasetti and Johannes Andersen are consistently popular.

How Much is a Tripod Coffee Table?

The average selling price for a tripod coffee table at 1stDibs is $2,367, while they’re typically $495 on the low end and $26,407 for the highest priced.

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 Tripod Coffee Table

Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
Can a coffee table be too low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What size should a coffee table be?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
A coffee table should generally be two-thirds as long as the sofa it stands in front of and around the same height as the sofa’s seat cushions.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

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

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What is the difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
While both pieces are relatively new to the furniture world, the main difference between them are their shapes. A cocktail table is generally square or rectangular in shape, while a coffee table tends to be oval or circular in shape. You can shop a collection of furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a sofa table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
The difference between a sofa table and a coffee table is that a sofa table is always behind the sofa and a coffee table is in front of it. Additionally, a sofa table is the same height as the sofa and a coffee table is much shorter.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

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

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

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.
What is the difference between a coffee table and a console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is a tray top coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
When did coffee tables become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.
What is the standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Are glass coffee tables durable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

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