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.

Unique Coffee Tables

Antique French Iron Table

Oprah Winfrey

Teak Slab

Category

Antique 18th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

18th Century French Balcony Element Coffee Table

$3,950

Mogg - PIANTAMA Coffee Table with lamp - H 100 cm - 39.4 in

By Mogg

Located in Alcamo, IT

Mogg – PIANTAMA Coffee Table with Lamp Design: Marcantonio PIANTAMA is a unique coffee table with

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Mogg - PIANTAMA Coffee Table with lamp - H 100 cm - 39.4 in

$1,233 / item

Angelo Mangiarotti Square Coffee Table in Ash Wood, Italy 1970s

By Angelo Mangiarotti

Located in Roma, IT

. This unique coffee table was produced in Italy during the 1970s and is attributed to the mastery of

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Ash

Angelo Mangiarotti Square Coffee Table in Ash Wood, Italy 1970s

$1,898

Andrianna Shamaris Teak Wood Coffee Table with Shell Inlay Design

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

into a unique coffee table whilst respecting the natural organic wood. The top is supported with

Category

2010s Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Teak, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris Teak Wood Coffee Table with Shell Inlay Design

$3,600

Andrianna Shamaris Century Old Teak Wood Coffee Table with Shell Inlay

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

unique coffee table whilst respecting the natural organic wood. The top is between two to three inches

Category

2010s Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Teak, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris Century Old Teak Wood Coffee Table with Shell Inlay

$3,600

Mogg - PIANTAMA Coffee Table with lamp

By Mogg

Located in Alcamo, IT

Mogg – PIANTAMA Coffee Table with Lamp Design: Marcantonio PIANTAMA is a unique coffee table with

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Mogg - PIANTAMA Coffee Table with lamp

$1,305 / item

Unique table by Mogens Mogensen, Sweden, 1940s

Located in Stockholm, SE

Unique Coffee Table by Mogens Mogensen Sweden, 1940s This exceptional coffee table was specially

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Beech

Unique table by Mogens Mogensen, Sweden, 1940s

$53,405

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 120

Located in Nijlen, BE

This unique coffee table named Tomelle is an inspiration of the boulders found in a river. When a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Bohemian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Marble

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 120

$3,294

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 80

Located in Nijlen, BE

This unique coffee table named Tomelle is an inspiration of the boulders found in a river. When a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Bohemian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plaster

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 80

$2,762

Stunning Flying Putti or Cherub Coffee Table in Bronze or Bronze Finished Metal

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

classical elegance to any room. This unique coffee table effortlessly complements diverse interior design

Category

Early 2000s European Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Stunning Flying Putti or Cherub Coffee Table in Bronze or Bronze Finished Metal

$2,995

Italian mid-century modern wrought iron in yellow grey enamel coffee table 1950s

Located in MIlano, IT

missing enamel and oxidation. Measurements in cm 40dx48h This beautiful and unique coffee table will be

Category

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

Materials

Enamel, Wrought Iron

Italian mid-century modern wrought iron in yellow grey enamel coffee table 1950s

$593

Industrial Galvanised Water Tank Made into a Coffee Table

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

converted into a convenient, unique coffee table. This industrial steel table is a real stylish piece with

Category

20th Century Industrial More Folk Art

Materials

Steel

Industrial Galvanised Water Tank Made into a Coffee Table

$1,039

Giovanni Gariboldi 20th Century Glass Flowers Design Brass Quadripod Table

By Giovanni Gariboldi

Located in London, GB

This unique coffee table, designed by Giovanni Gariboldi and published by Fontana Arte, is a true

Category

20th Century Italian Tables

Materials

Brass

Giovanni Gariboldi 20th Century Glass Flowers Design Brass Quadripod Table

$6,973

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 100

Located in Nijlen, BE

This unique coffee table named Tomelle is an inspiration of the boulders found in a river. When a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Belgian Bohemian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Limestone, Marble

Liz Tables Boho Style Coffee Table Boulder Form Naturelle size 100

$2,881

Andrianna Shamaris Hand Carved Teak Doors, Antique Design, Circa 1940

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

carver to produce either an architectural element, art piece, head board or a unique coffee table top

Category

Vintage 1940s Minimalist Doors and Gates

Materials

Metal

Andrianna Shamaris Hand Carved Teak Doors, Antique Design, Circa 1940

$8,900

Antique Shanxi Province Elm Coffee Table Cut from Chinese Bed

Located in Chicago, IL

living space with this unique coffee table, adding a touch of cultural charm and artistic allure that

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Chinese Chinese Export Furniture

Materials

Elm, Lacquer

Antique Shanxi Province Elm Coffee Table Cut from Chinese Bed

$4,250

Qing Dynasty 19th Century Shop Sign with Calligraphy Made into a Coffee Table

Located in Yonkers, NY

creatively transformed into a unique coffee table. The sign's exquisite top is accentuated by the glistening

Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Qing Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Qing Dynasty 19th Century Shop Sign with Calligraphy Made into a Coffee Table

$4,500

Vintage Oval Coffee Table by Stil Keramos with a Colored Lacquered Ceramic Top

By Stil Keramos

Located in Bresso, Lombardy

Made in Italy, 1960s. This beautiful and unique coffee table features a nickel-plated metal

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Vintage Oval Coffee Table by Stil Keramos with a Colored Lacquered Ceramic Top

$1,756

Customizable Modular Resin Coffee Table in Matte Bronze Finish

By Albino Miranda

Located in NEW YORK, NY

any modern living space. This unique coffee table comprises three distinct pieces, designed to be

Category

2010s Portuguese Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Resin, Fiberglass

Customizable Modular Resin Coffee Table in Matte Bronze Finish

$7,018 / item

Series Of Brutalist Style Tables In Different Sizes In Solid Oak

By Pierre Dubourg

Located in NEW YORK, NY

together to create a unique coffee table landscape, catering to your specific needs and space. Use them

Category

2010s Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Series Of Brutalist Style Tables In Different Sizes In Solid Oak

$10,043 / item

70s Gianfranco Frattini nesting tables

By Gianfranco Frattini, Meblo

Located in Ljubljana, SI

vintage charm and versatility. Display them individually as side tables or nest them for a unique coffee

Category

Vintage 1970s Slovenian Mid-Century Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking T...

Materials

Smoked Glass, Hardwood

70s Gianfranco Frattini nesting tables

$1,186 / set

Round Luxury Coffee Table – Modern Glass Top with Crystal-Acrylic

By DAINTE INC

Located in Monroe, NY

-acrylic with warm organic wood for a truly unique design. Perfect as a coffee table for living room, this

Category

2010s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Round Luxury Coffee Table – Modern Glass Top with Crystal-Acrylic

$4,700 / item

José Zanine Caldas (attributed). Center Table. Hardwood Vinhatico. c. 1970

By José Zanine Caldas

Located in PARIS, FR

designer and architect José Zanine Caldas, this unique coffee table was crafted circa 1970 from solid

Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Hardwood

José Zanine Caldas (attributed). Center Table. Hardwood Vinhatico. c. 1970

$30,856

Vintage Military British Bank Cash Box

Located in Tokyo, Tokyo

, or it can be used as a small stand for displaying small objects or as a unique coffee table.

Category

Mid-20th Century English Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Metal

Vintage Military British Bank Cash Box

$350

Rare Coffee Table in mosaic brass by Jean Claude Dresse.

By Jean Claude Dresse

Located in Brussels, BE

Jean Claude Dresse, coffee table, Mosaic brass and agate, Belgium, 1970. This unique coffee table

Category

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

Materials

Agate, Metal, Brass

Rare Coffee Table in mosaic brass by Jean Claude Dresse.

$93,316

Castile Coffee Table Stone Contemporary Design Synthesis Collection in Stock

By Meddel, Joaquín Moll

Located in VALVERDE DEL MAJANO, CL

the possibilities of marble in furniture design. This unique coffee table features a thin marble

Category

2010s Spanish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Castile Coffee Table Stone Contemporary Design Synthesis Collection in Stock

$6,183

London Marble Coffee Table Brutalist Design Oxid Slate Joaquín Moll Meddel Spain

By Meddel, Joaquín Moll

Located in VALVERDE DEL MAJANO, CL

and makes it a design piece in natural stone. A different and unique coffee table for exclusive and

Category

2010s Spanish Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Crystal, Slate, Metal

London Marble Coffee Table Brutalist Design Oxid Slate Joaquín Moll Meddel Spain

$4,865

Coffee Table rectangular in mosaic brass, stainless steel by Jean Claude Dresse

By Jean Claude Dresse

Located in Brussels, BE

. This unique coffee table by Dresse was owned by a Belgian private collection from Brussels. This

Category

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

Materials

Brass, Stainless Steel

Coffee Table rectangular in mosaic brass, stainless steel by Jean Claude Dresse

$19,937

Vintage Boho Woven Rattan Side Tables - Set of 2

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

, these versatile pieces can function beautifully as end tables, nightstands, or even as a unique coffee

Category

Late 20th Century Philippine Organic Modern Side Tables

Materials

Rattan, Glass

Vintage Boho Woven Rattan Side Tables - Set of 2

$1,750 / set

Indian Tribal 1920s Teak Chakki Grinding Table with Geometric Hand-Carved Motifs

Located in Yonkers, NY

. Whether used as a unique coffee table, a conversation-starting display stand, or a reminder of cultural

Category

Early 20th Century Indian Tribal Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Indian Tribal 1920s Teak Chakki Grinding Table with Geometric Hand-Carved Motifs

$1,100

Vintage Sculptural Coastal Organic Modern Pencil Rattan Leaf Nesting Tables

Located in North Fort Myers, FL

side tables, accent tables, or nested together as a unique coffee table arrangement. While restored

Category

1990s Unknown Organic Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Tables

Materials

Rattan

Vintage Sculptural Coastal Organic Modern Pencil Rattan Leaf Nesting Tables

$1,995 / set

NORDST GAARD Coffee Table, Italian Black Eagle Marble, Danish Modern Design, New

By NORDST

Located in Montelavar, Lisboa

Tangram playable feature will manifest, creating a unique coffee table that can be split and rearranged as

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Travertine, Marble, Metal

NORDST GAARD Coffee Table, Italian Black Eagle Marble, Danish Modern Design, New

$2,456 / item

Crystal Branched Adorned Coffee Table with Natural Wooden Branch Design

By DAINTE INC

Located in Monroe, NY

leaves, beautifully encased in clear crystal mixed with acrylic, creating a truly unique coffee table

Category

2010s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Crystal Branched Adorned Coffee Table with Natural Wooden Branch Design

$4,900

Andrianna Shamaris Bleached Teak Wood Log Bench or Coffee Table

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

Impressive century old six inch thick logs are joined together to form this unique coffee table or

Category

2010s Organic Modern Benches

Materials

Wood, Teak, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris Bleached Teak Wood Log Bench or Coffee Table

$9,800

17th Century Old English Studded Oak Door

Located in Wormelow, Herefordshire

repurposed, making a unique coffee table or decorative panel, steeped in stories and history!

Category

Antique Mid-17th Century English Country Doors and Gates

Materials

Wood, Oak

17th Century Old English Studded Oak Door

$2,249

Phillip Lloyd Powell Long Coffee Table in Solid Walnut

By Phillip Lloyd Powell

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Phillip Lloyd Powell, coffee table, walnut, United States, 1960s This unique coffee table is

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Phillip Lloyd Powell Long Coffee Table in Solid Walnut

$38,500

19th Century British Colonial Teak Woven Rattan Stool

Located in Petworth,West Sussex, GB

a stool or luggage stand but also as a unique coffee table, making it a practical addition to any

Category

Antique Late 19th Century British British Colonial Stools

Materials

Teak

19th Century British Colonial Teak Woven Rattan Stool

$1,846

Vintage Coastal Woven Rattan Draped Side Tables - A Pair

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

together as a unique coffee table, this pair brings an unparalleled sense of relaxed, coastal elegance to

Category

Late 20th Century Philippine Organic Modern Side Tables

Materials

Rattan

Vintage Coastal Woven Rattan Draped Side Tables - A Pair

$4,650 / set

Vintage Boho Burl Wood Block

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

a unique coffee table. Presented in great vintage condition, this block table shows minor scuffs

Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Burl

Vintage Boho Burl Wood Block

$895

Jagae, Black coffee table

By WKND Lab

Located in Miami Beach, FL

) Technique: mosaic Material: Wood Heritage: Korea Production time is 5 weeks. The Jagae table is a unique

Category

2010s Korean Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Jagae, Black coffee table

$11,000

Brutalist Round Solid Oak Coffee Table France in style of Pierre Chapo

By Pierre Chapo, De Puydt

Located in DE MEERN, NL

unique coffee table will bring enduring style and character to your home.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Brutalist Round Solid Oak Coffee Table France in style of Pierre Chapo

$4,152

Vintage Boho Woven Kilim Style Ottoman

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

wonderfully versatile – use it as a unique coffee table, a comfy footrest, or inviting bench seating

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Ottomans and Poufs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Vintage Boho Woven Kilim Style Ottoman

$1,050

Vintage Boho Kilim Ottoman

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

plush footrest, a unique coffee table (just add a tray!), or comfortable extra seating for guests. This

Category

Late 20th Century American Ottomans and Poufs

Materials

Wool, Upholstery, Wood

Vintage Boho Kilim Ottoman

$3,550

Vintage Boho 19th Century Jenny Lind Steamer Box - 795

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

coffee table, or a decorative accent that sparks conversation. Bring a piece of history into your home

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century American Decorative Boxes

Materials

Metal

Vintage Boho 19th Century Jenny Lind Steamer Box - 795

$795

16th Century French Carved Walnut Cassone With Gothic Tracery

Located in Stamford, CT

perfect size as a unique coffee table. 46 inches wide, 17.5 high 21 deep Provenance: Luigi Pellettieri

Category

Antique 16th Century Gothic Blanket Chests

Materials

Walnut

16th Century French Carved Walnut Cassone With Gothic Tracery

$4,350 Sale Price

25% Off

Early 19th Century Country French Provincial Oak Coffer Trunk

Located in Astoria, NY

unique coffee table or end-of-bed piece. - Origin: Provence, France - Period: Early 19th Century

Category

Antique Early 19th Century French French Provincial Blanket Chests

Materials

Iron

Early 19th Century Country French Provincial Oak Coffer Trunk

$4,000

Signed John Dickinson 1970s White Plaster Low Side Table with Hoofed Feet

By John Dickinson

Located in Atlanta, GA

your living room as a unique coffee table, where it becomes a conversation starter, showcasing your

Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Plaster

Signed John Dickinson 1970s White Plaster Low Side Table with Hoofed Feet

$19,500

Chinese Qing Dynasty Period 19th Century Brown Leather Trunk with Brass Hardware

Located in Yonkers, NY

historical artifact. Whether as a keepsake box or a unique coffee table, this trunk not only serves as a

Category

Antique 19th Century Chinese Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Brass

Chinese Qing Dynasty Period 19th Century Brown Leather Trunk with Brass Hardware

$1,400

Vintage Wooden Blanket Chest with Carved Foliage and Floral Motifs

Located in Yonkers, NY

as a unique coffee table in a living room, or positioned in a hallway as a statement piece, this

Category

Mid-20th Century Indonesian Blanket Chests

Materials

Wood

Vintage Wooden Blanket Chest with Carved Foliage and Floral Motifs

$950

English Victorian Period 19th Century Black Traveling Trunk With Initials J.G.F.

Located in Atlanta, GA

or as a unique coffee table, this Victorian traveling trunk is sure to spark conversations and

Category

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Trunks and Luggage

Materials

Leather, Canvas

English Victorian Period 19th Century Black Traveling Trunk With Initials J.G.F.

$950

Antique Goldsmith’s Strong Box, English, Heavy Cast Iron Locking Safe, Victorian

Located in Hele, Devon, GB

box, strong room piece, or unique coffee table feature Exudes the industrial elegance and solidity

Category

Antique 1880s British Victorian Decorative Boxes

Materials

Iron

Antique Goldsmith’s Strong Box, English, Heavy Cast Iron Locking Safe, Victorian

$3,690

Rustic Indian Antique Food Box with Pierced Star Motifs and Bracketed Plinth

Located in Yonkers, NY

room, it can serve as a unique coffee table centerpiece or a storage solution for remote controls and

Category

Antique 19th Century Indian Decorative Boxes

Materials

Wood

Rustic Indian Antique Food Box with Pierced Star Motifs and Bracketed Plinth

$1,900

Unique Vintage Modern Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid-Century Modern burl wood cube coffee table featuring unique wood tile designs inside a glass

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Unique Vintage Modern Coffee Table

$2,000

Wood Epoxy Resin Coffee Table - Unique Modern Coffee Table

Located in İnegöl, TR

LEAF EPOXY RESIN COFFEE TABLE & MODERN ART This epoxy coffee table emerges as a unique work of

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Epoxy Resin, Wood

Wood Epoxy Resin Coffee Table - Unique Modern Coffee Table

$11,600 Sale Price

20% Off

Carved Epoxy Resin Coffee Table, Unique Design Coffee Table

Located in İnegöl, TR

LEAF EPOXY RESIN COFFEE TABLE & MODERN ART This epoxy coffee table emerges as a unique work of

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Epoxy Resin, Wood

Carved Epoxy Resin Coffee Table, Unique Design Coffee Table

$11,600 Sale Price

20% Off

Unique 80s Italian Composite Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Unique 80s Italian Composite Coffee Table table featuring a sculptural folded resin base topped

Category

Vintage 1960s Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Unique 80s Italian Composite Coffee Table

$700

Garden Bench, Rustic Blackened Wood, Raw Organic Form Indoor, Outdoor, Logniture

By Logniture

Located in Stara Gradiška, HR

low console or media stand, a unique coffee table, or a powerful pedestal for displaying art in an

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Croatian Brutalist Benches

Materials

Wood, Oak

Garden Bench, Rustic Blackened Wood, Raw Organic Form Indoor, Outdoor, Logniture

$830

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Unique Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a range of unique coffee tables for sale on 1stDibs. The range of distinct unique coffee tables — often made from metal, wood and glass — can elevate any home. There are 215 antique and vintage unique coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 82 modern editions to choose from as well. Unique coffee tables have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Art Deco unique coffee tables are consistently popular styles. Unique coffee tables have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Jörg Pietschmann, Studio Superego and Philip and Kelvin LaVerne are consistently popular.

How Much are Unique Coffee Tables?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $3,975, while they’re typically $475 on the low end and $180,000 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 Unique Coffee Tables

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.

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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.

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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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