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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

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

1 Answer
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.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
Handcrafted Oval Black Cast Stone Coffee Table by Alentes Atelier, Greece
Located in PALEA FOKEA, ATTIKI
A quietly sculptural table defined by soft geometry and balanced proportions. Handcrafted in Greece from Alentes’ proprietary cast stone, its solid mass and gently contoured form len...
Category

2010s Greek Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cast Stone

Rare Jean Claude Dresse Mosaic Coffee Table in Hematite
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Jean Claude Dresse, coffee table, resin, hematite, lacquered steel, Belgium, 1970s Jean Claude Dresse’s work is typically characterized by brass and resin; his use of hematite is un...
Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

George Nakashima 'Slab' Coffee Table in English Walnut
Located in Waalwijk, NL
George Nakashima for George Nakashima Studio, 'Slab' coffee table, English walnut, United States, 1964 American woodworker and designer George Nakashima demonstrates his mastery of ...
Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Space Age Jean Maneval Style Coffee Table, White Lacquered Fiberglass
Located in Los Angeles, CA
MOD Jean Maneval style white lacquered wood coffee table with inset smoked glass top. Beautiful and modern style with curves and square weighted base. Coffee table demonstrates the e...
Category

Vintage 1970s Norwegian Space Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Fiberglass, Wood, Lacquer

José Zanine Caldas Hand-Carved Coffee Table in Brazilian Hardwood
Located in Waalwijk, NL
José Zanine Caldas, coffee table, Brazilian hardwood (Pequi), Brazil, 1970s This exceptional hand-carved coffee table embodies everything that José Zanine Caldas stood for: a deep ...
Category

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

Materials

Hardwood

Large Curved Laverne Table
Located in New York, NY
A circa 1970 American patinated bronze table with original patina. Measurements: Height: 15" Length: 69.5" width: 24"
Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Bronze

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