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.

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

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

What 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

Elegant Coffee Tables

Josef Frank Round Table

Solid Teak Round Table

Coffee T

Category

Vintage 1980s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Brutalist and elegant coffee table

H 16.54 in W 39.38 in D 39.38 in

Italian 1950's elegant coffee table in dark mahogany

By Mid Century Antiques

Located in Milano, IT

COD-1511 Italian 1950's elegant coffee table in dark polished wood with fine bronze tips and a

Category

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

Materials

Mahogany

Italian 1950's elegant coffee table in dark mahogany

H 16.93 in Dm 27.56 in

Elegant Coffee Table in Glass and Brass

Located in Tilburg, NL

Very elegant coffee table in glass and brass. A classic design with flowing lines, great curves and

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Elegant Coffee Table in Glass and Brass

H 16.54 in W 35.44 in D 35.44 in

Elegant Coffee Table with Polished Steel Base by Tommi Parzinger 1960s

By Tommi Parzinger

Located in New York, NY

Elegant coffee table with polished steel base and oval glass top by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger

Category

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

Materials

Stainless Steel

Elegant Coffee Table with Polished Steel Base by Tommi Parzinger 1960s

H 17 in W 53 in D 33 in

Elegant Coffee Table in Teak by S. Burchardt Nielsen

Located in Copenhagen, DK

Elegant coffee table with beautiful wood veins. Teak. Excellent condition. NielsenClassics

Category

Mid-20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Elegant Coffee Table in Teak by S. Burchardt Nielsen

H 18.9 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

T H Robsjohn Gibbings coffee table for Widdicomb

By T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Traditional and elegant coffee table by Robsjohn Gibbings.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

T H Robsjohn Gibbings coffee table for Widdicomb

H 16 in W 58 in D 21 in

Square Parchment Coffee Table

Located in Cathedral City, CA

Elegant coffee table cover with brown parchment with brass ring handles.

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Square Parchment Coffee Table

H 16 in W 27.5 in D 27.5 in

Coffee Table in Italian Burl with Inset Bronze Mirrors

Located in New York, NY

Elegant coffee table in Italian olive wood burl with inset bronze mirrors, Italian, 1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Coffee Table in Italian Burl with Inset Bronze Mirrors

H 17 in W 40.5 in D 40.5 in

Coffee Table Attributed to Otto Prutscher and Thonet Original of the Time

By Gebrüder Thonet Vienna GmbH, Otto Prutscher, Woka Lamps

Located in Vienna, AT

Elegant coffee table with volute carved legs Material Beechwood, black stained, signs of age

Category

Antique Early 1900s Austrian Jugendstil Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Beech

Coffee Table Attributed to Otto Prutscher and Thonet Original of the Time

H 27.56 in Dm 25.6 in

Elegant 1940's Coffee Table with Incredible Original Glass Top

Located in Atlanta, GA

Elegant Coffee Table, probably American, circa 1940's, with shapely zoomorphic legs and retaining

Category

Vintage 1940s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Elegant 1940's Coffee Table with Incredible Original Glass Top

H 15.5 in W 31.25 in D 23.75 in

Giuseppe Scapinelli Midcentury Brazilian Coffee Table

By Giuseppe Scapinelli

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Crafted of caviúna wood, c. 1950s. This elegant coffee table features sculptural moments from the

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Giuseppe Scapinelli Midcentury Brazilian Coffee Table

H 15 in W 47 in D 20.25 in

Black Coffee Table, Italy, 1970s

Located in Roma, IT

elegant coffee table to be collect.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Black Coffee Table, Italy, 1970s

H 15.75 in W 23.63 in D 23.63 in

Gilt Wrought Iron Coffee Table with Marble Top

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

This very elegant coffee table is made of gilt wrought iron with a marble top. This is a French

Category

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

Materials

Marble, Wrought Iron

Gilt Wrought Iron Coffee Table with Marble Top

H 19.69 in W 43.31 in D 19.69 in

"Zig Zag" Iron and Stone Coffee Table, France, circa 1960s

Located in Isle Sur La Sorgue, Vaucluse

Elegant coffee table with dynamic, jazzy legs. The stone top slots into the iron surround, which is

Category

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

Materials

Iron

"Zig Zag" Iron and Stone Coffee Table, France, circa 1960s

H 17.13 in W 27.56 in D 19.69 in

Romeo Rega style Coffee Table in Brass and Smoked Glass, Italy, 1970s Midcentury

By Romeo Rega

Located in Roma, IT

Elegant coffee table in brass, smoked glass adds to the seductive elegance of this midcentury piece

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Romeo Rega style Coffee Table in Brass and Smoked Glass, Italy, 1970s Midcentury

H 16.15 in W 14.18 in D 22.05 in

Midcentury Brass Rod and Glass Round Coffee Table Italy 1950s

Located in Palermo, IT

Elegant coffee table with circular glass top and artistic structure with three legs in curved and

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Brass Rod and Glass Round Coffee Table Italy 1950s

H 20.08 in Dm 23.23 in

Osvaldo Borsani Elegant Coffee Table in Wood Walnut

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Milano, IT

elegantly semi-curved legs give the table elegance and lightness. At the foot of the legs we find a brass

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Osvaldo Borsani Elegant Coffee Table in Wood Walnut

H 31.11 in Dm 48.43 in

Marble Coffee Table by Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1950s

By Svenskt Tenn, Josef Frank

Located in Stockholm, SE

Elegant coffee table by Josef Frank, with a mahogany base and black marble coffee top. Elegant

Category

Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Marble Coffee Table by Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn, Sweden, 1950s

H 18.9 in W 21.66 in D 47.25 in

Rosewood & Marble Coffee Table by Ib Kofod-Larson for Seffle Möller, Sweden

By Ib Kofod-Larsen, Seffle Möbelfabrik

Located in Stockholm, SE

Elegant coffee table by Ib Kofod Larsen, with a rosewood frame and black marble table top. Smoothly

Category

Vintage 1960s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Rosewood & Marble Coffee Table by Ib Kofod-Larson for Seffle Möller, Sweden

H 20.48 in W 60.24 in D 23.63 in

Elegant Glass and Golden Brass Coffee Table

Located in Piacenza, Italy

Elegant coffe table with golden brass and inlaid wood base with a glass top. Handmande in Italy

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tables

Materials

Brass

Elegant Glass and Golden Brass Coffee Table

H 21.66 in W 47.25 in D 17.72 in

Bamboo and Raffia Coffee Table with Mirror, Franca Helg Franco Albini Style

By Franca Helg

Located in Vigonza, Padua

Midcentury elegant coffee table, side table, with top mirror and shelf in green glass, Franca Helg

Category

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

Materials

Raffia, Glass, Mirror

Bamboo and Raffia Coffee Table with Mirror, Franca Helg Franco Albini Style

H 22.05 in Dm 25.6 in

Neoclassical Style Brushed Steel and Brass Coffee Table

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

very elegant coffee table, which quality is really good. The oval glass top is beveled.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Neoclassical Style Brushed Steel and Brass Coffee Table

H 20.48 in W 32.68 in D 53.94 in

Neoclassical Style Maison Baguès Two Tiers Brass Coffee Table. Circa 1940

By Maison Jansen

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

This very nice and elegant coffee table is made of brass with two glass shelves featuring bronze

Category

Vintage 1940s French Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Neoclassical Style Maison Baguès Two Tiers Brass Coffee Table. Circa 1940

H 19.49 in W 37.6 in D 19.89 in

Karl Springer Exceptional Ostrich Skin Coffee Table 1980s (Signed)

By Karl Springer

Located in New York, NY

Elegant coffee table covered in ostrich skin with glass top by Karl Springer, American 1970's

Category

Vintage 1980s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Animal Skin, Wood

Karl Springer Exceptional Ostrich Skin Coffee Table 1980s (Signed)

H 17.5 in W 45 in D 29.5 in

Charming Midcentury Rosewood Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This elegant coffee table features storage in both front and back. Sporting a beautiful red hue

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Charming Midcentury Rosewood Coffee Table

H 17.5 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Round Coffee Table Gio Ponti for Fontana Arte, 1960s Black Trasparent Glass

By Gio Ponti

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Elegant coffee table Gio Ponti for Fontana Arte, 1960s, It consists of two circular slabs of thick

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Round Coffee Table Gio Ponti for Fontana Arte, 1960s Black Trasparent Glass

H 24.22 in Dm 24.22 in

Harvey Probber Mid-Century Terrazzo Marble-Top Coffee Table, circa 1955

By Harvey Probber

Located in Camden, ME

Harvey Probber style elegant coffee table with surfboard top of Terrazzo marble divided by a center

Category

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

Materials

Terrazzo, Walnut

Harvey Probber Mid-Century Terrazzo Marble-Top Coffee Table, circa 1955

H 15 in W 66 in D 20 in

Maison Jansen Brushed Steel and Brass Coffee Table with Swanheads

By Maison Jansen

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

This very elegant coffee table is made of a neoclassical brushed steel base with brass swan heads

Category

Vintage 1970s French Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Maison Jansen Brushed Steel and Brass Coffee Table with Swanheads

H 18.12 in W 33.86 in D 18.12 in

Antique coffee table by Jean Claude MAHEY

By Jean Claude Mahey

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A beautiful and elegant coffee table, the color is much nicer in person, it is like a ivory color

Category

Vintage 1970s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Antique coffee table by Jean Claude MAHEY

H 16 in W 52 in D 34 in

600g. Moscatelli for Formanova Glass, Metal and Wood Coffee Table 70s, Italy

By Formanova, Gianni Moscatelli

Located in Palermo, IT

Elegant coffee table with shaped smoked glass top on geometric black metal support on four

Category

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

Materials

Metal

600g. Moscatelli for Formanova Glass, Metal and Wood Coffee Table 70s, Italy

H 14.18 in W 46.46 in D 23.23 in

Asian Inspired Brass Coffee Table, Mastercraft Style

Located in Bradenton, FL

This 1960's vintage rectangular Asian coffee table is in the iconic Mastercraft style, and features

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Asian Inspired Brass Coffee Table, Mastercraft Style

H 15 in W 27 in D 48 in

Free Form Albezia Wood Slab Coffee Table

Located in Los Angeles, CA

a sturdy, yet elegant coffee table

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indonesian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Free Form Albezia Wood Slab Coffee Table

H 16 in W 68.5 in D 43 in

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Tiered Coffee Table, Walnut with Rosewood Drawer Pull

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

Elegant coffee table designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Table features a rectangular shape with

Category

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

Materials

Rosewood, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Tiered Coffee Table, Walnut with Rosewood Drawer Pull

H 17 in W 56 in D 19.5 in

Vintage italian marble coffee table, 1950s

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

. Made in italy in the 1950s. Very elegant coffee table 1950s - Italy Very good condition Height

Category

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

Materials

Marble, Metal, Brass

Vintage italian marble coffee table, 1950s

H 16.54 in W 33.47 in D 18.12 in

Cartagena Coffee Table by Giuseppe Manzoni

By Annibale Colombo

Located in Milan, IT

coffee table. Delicate and charming, its smooth silhouette showcases a glossy frame in solid eucalyptus

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Cartagena Coffee Table by Giuseppe Manzoni

H 16.54 in W 59.06 in D 41.34 in

Italian White Marble and Brass 1970s Coffee Table

Located in Varese, Lombardia

This elegant coffee table was produced in Italy around the 1970s. It is made from a brass structure

Category

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

Materials

Marble, Brass

Italian White Marble and Brass 1970s Coffee Table

H 19.49 in W 22.72 in D 22.72 in

Edward Wormley Coffee Table with Tiffany Tiles

By Edward Wormley

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

An elegant coffee table incorporating seven beautiful iridescent Tiffany Tiles.This group of

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

Edward Wormley Coffee Table with Tiffany Tiles

H 17.25 in W 78 in D 18.75 in

Elegant Coffee Table with Glass Top and Sleek Black Legs

Located in Rome, IT

Introducing our exquisite Italian-made coffee table, crafted with the highest level of artisanship

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Elegant Coffee Table with Glass Top and Sleek Black Legs

H 21.66 in W 50.79 in D 29.14 in

MM4 Small Coffee Table by Mascia Meccani

By Meccani Design

Located in Milan, IT

Mascia Meccani designed this elegant coffee table to celebrate the natural fluidity of curved lines

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

MM4 Small Coffee Table by Mascia Meccani

H 14.57 in W 55.12 in D 55.12 in

Wrought Iron and Copper Coffee Table, 1960s

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

craftsmanship creates this beautiful elegant coffee table. 1960s - France Dimensions: Height: 45cm/17.71

Category

Vintage 1960s French Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper, Wrought Iron

Wrought Iron and Copper Coffee Table, 1960s

H 17.72 in W 47.25 in D 20.48 in

Geometric marble and glass coffee table

Located in Nijlen, VAN

What an elegant coffee table. This talfe has 3 separate marble blocks. This is a carrea marble

Category

Vintage 1970s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble

Geometric marble and glass coffee table

H 12.6 in W 47.25 in D 27.56 in

Coffee Table - Mod. T113 - Osvaldo Borsani - Tecno - 1970s Steel and Thick Cr

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Brussels , BE

Elegant coffee table made from very sturdy materials. Perfect for any type of interior, can be

Category

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

Materials

Crystal, Steel

Coffee Table - Mod. T113 - Osvaldo Borsani - Tecno - 1970s Steel and Thick Cr

H 16.93 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Brass Coffee Table "Branch"

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Brass coffee table "Branch" Elegant coffee table "Branch" has the decoration of the base in the

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Brass Coffee Table "Branch"

H 23.23 in Dm 18.12 in

Kho Liang Ie Coffee Table in Wengé and Formica

By Kho Liang Ie

Located in Tilburg, NL

Large and elegant coffee table by Kho Liang Ie (1927-1975) for Dutch company ‘t Spectrum from

Category

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

Materials

Formica, Wenge

Kho Liang Ie Coffee Table in Wengé and Formica

H 14.18 in W 64.97 in D 21.66 in

Nilo Round Polychrome Coffee Table

By Pier Luigi Frighetto by Black Tie

Located in Milan, IT

frame of this elegant coffee table. Precious inserts of Calacatta Vagli Oro marble, glass back-painted

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Gold

Nilo Round Polychrome Coffee Table

H 14.97 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Nadine Effront chrome and glass coffee table

By Nadine Effront

Located in Nijlen, VAN

Nadine Effront coffee table Elegant coffee table from the 80s. This coffee table was designed in

Category

Vintage 1970s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Nadine Effront chrome and glass coffee table

H 16.15 in W 72.84 in D 29.14 in

Midcentury Coffe Table Yugoslavia 1960s

Located in Miklavž Pri Taboru, SI

Elegant coffee table from the 1960s. Made in Yugoslavia. Despite its age, it is in good condition

Category

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

Materials

Plywood

Midcentury Coffe Table Yugoslavia 1960s

H 23.23 in W 35.44 in D 19.69 in

Danish Mid-Century Round Coffee Table in Teak & Beech

Located in Helsinki, FI

Danish mid-century round coffee table in teak & beech. Unknown designer. Compact and elegant

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Beech, Teak

Danish Mid-Century Round Coffee Table in Teak & Beech

H 23.63 in Dm 35.44 in

Elegant Coffee Table with Walnut Inlaid and Brass Decoration by Baker

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A beautiful coffee table by Baker, it has the ebonized wood with an inlaid brass and a beautiful

Category

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

Elegant Coffee Table with Walnut Inlaid and Brass Decoration by Baker

H 15.5 in W 49 in D 49 in

Vintage brass swan coffee table, 1980s

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

Elegant coffee table with a double swan base in brass with their curled necks. Their wings serve

Category

Vintage 1980s French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage brass swan coffee table, 1980s

H 19.69 in W 55.12 in D 31.5 in

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #5

By Travertini e Pietre

Located in Milan, IT

Exclusively designed by Antonio Saporito and carved from luxurious marble, this elegant coffee

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #5

H 17.72 in W 24.81 in D 24.81 in

Cerused Oak Wood Coffee Table Glass Top France, circa 1940

By (after) Jean Michel Frank

Located in Vienna, AT

Cerused oak wood coffee or side table with glass glass top, France circa 1940 Elegant coffee table

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Oak

Cerused Oak Wood Coffee Table Glass Top France, circa 1940

H 15.74 in W 42.9 in D 19.7 in

Vintage Danish Teak Coffee Table with Shelf, 1960s

Located in Asaa, DK

Vintage Danish teak coffee table with shelf 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern compact and elegant

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Vintage Danish Teak Coffee Table with Shelf, 1960s

H 20.67 in W 39.38 in D 19.89 in

Italian Coffee Table in Walnut, Restored 1950s

Located in Milano, IT

Elegant coffee table made in Italy, 1950s. The coffee table is totally made of a beautiful walnut

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Italian Coffee Table in Walnut, Restored 1950s

H 19.3 in Dm 26.78 in

Coffee Table in Brass with Acrylic base "List"

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Coffee table in brass with acrylic base Elegant coffee table with gold surface made from cast

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Coffee Table in Brass with Acrylic base "List"

H 14.18 in W 59.85 in D 32.29 in

Bronze Faux Bamboo and Leatherette Att. to Jacques Adnet, France 1950s

By Jacques Adnet

Located in New York, NY

Elegant coffee table with faux bamboo solid bronze feet, typical of Adnet's 1950's production. Faux

Category

Vintage 1950s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze, Iron

Bronze Faux Bamboo and Leatherette Att. to Jacques Adnet, France 1950s

H 14.97 in W 41.34 in D 18.9 in

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #3

By Travertini e Pietre

Located in Milan, IT

Entirely crafted from gorgeous black marble, this elegant coffee table by designer Antonio Saporito

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #3

H 17.72 in W 24.81 in D 24.81 in

Elegant Coffee Table Curved Wood Panel Curved Art Glass Transparent Glass Tube

By sicis

Located in London, GB

an eclectic style, elegant and refined. Interiors express personality. A constant research

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Art Glass, Wood

Elegant Coffee Table Curved Wood Panel Curved Art Glass Transparent Glass Tube

H 15.75 in W 55.12 in D 37.41 in

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #4

By Travertini e Pietre

Located in Milan, IT

Boasting ingenious spatial effects and striking chromatic contrasts, this elegant coffee table by

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Plus+Double Marble Coffee Table #4

H 17.72 in W 24.81 in D 24.81 in

Coffee Table in Ebony and Glass

By Zanaboni

Located in Milan, IT

This elegant coffee table is part of a series of pieces with ebony as main element. The square base

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee Table in Ebony and Glass

H 18.12 in W 47.25 in D 47.25 in

Tables Under $2,000

Antique and Vintage Tables

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Elegant Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are several options of elegant coffee tables available for sale. Each of these unique elegant coffee tables was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, wood and glass. There are 264 antique and vintage elegant coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 5 modern editions to choose from as well. Elegant coffee tables have been made for many years, and versions that date back to the 19th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Elegant coffee tables made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Hollywood Regency — are very popular at 1stDibs. Some elegant coffee tables are too large for some spaces — a variety of smaller elegant coffee tables, measuring 5.5 inches across, are available at 1stDibs. Many elegant coffee tables are appealing in their simplicity, but Baker Furniture Company, Tommi Parzinger and T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings produced popular elegant coffee tables that are worth a look.

How Much are Elegant Coffee Tables?

Prices for elegant coffee tables start at $795 and top out at $18,500 with the average selling for $2,883.

Finding the Right Coffee and 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. Browse a vast selection of antique, new and vintage coffee table and cocktail tables today.

Questions About Elegant Coffee Tables

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.
Is an ottoman a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Typically, an ottoman is not a coffee table. An ottoman is a small cushioned seat without a back or arm rests. You can shop a collection of vintage and contemporary ottomans from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What 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.
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.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

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

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

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a coffee table and a 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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 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.

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