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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

Why is it called a coffee table?

1 Answer
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.

1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Mid Century Gio Ponti Domus Nova Coffee Table Italy 1950
Located in Bernville, PA
Iconic coffee table by one of the most important Italian architects of all times, Gio Ponti. A solid caramel walnut table crafted by Domus Nova. It has that classy Gio Ponti shape wi...
Category

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

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Brazilian Hardwood round coffee table 1960's
Located in Den Haag, NL
Brazilian hardwood round coffee table 1960's made by unknown designer (in research) The table still has some original 1950's brazilian stamps and moving notes on the back. Please n...
Category

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

Materials

Hardwood

"Organic Round" Modern Coffee Table by Last Workshop, Walnut
Located in Chicago, IL
"Organic Round" coffee table by Last Workshop, 2025. Solid walnut, natural finish. 50" diameter size. Dimensions: 50" x 15"H Customers may also choose from: Wood species, finishe...
Category

2010s American Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood, Walnut

Commercial Grade Mid Century Coffee Table
Located in New York, NY
Architectural Mid Century coffee table, built to commercial standards, constructed of metal, wood, and faux wood. This unusual table features a steel frame, parts of which are cover...
Category

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

Materials

Metal

Vintage Danish Brutalist Oak & Tile Coffee Table style of Henning Kjærnulf, 60s
Located in Store Heddinge, DK
Presenting an exceptional vintage Danish oak and tile coffee table, a quintessential statement piece from the 1960s that embodies the harmonious balance of Scandinavian design. This ...
Category

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

Materials

Ceramic, Oak

AFRICA — Tree of Life Table, Hand-Inlaid with Pyrite Crystals by Sidani Design
Located in NEW YORK, NY
This handcrafted coffee table from the Africa Collection expresses Sidani Design’s sculptural language through a bold, monolithic silhouette enriched with mineral tactility. The piec...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rock Crystal, Pyrite

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