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 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.

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

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

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

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

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is the standard size of a coffee table?

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

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.

When did coffee tables become popular?

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

How do you style an oval coffee table?

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

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

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

How much does a coffee table cost?

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

Are glass coffee tables durable?

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

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

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

How do 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.

Africa Coffee Table

Category

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

Materials

Wood

African Mid-Century Colonial Coffee Table with Inlaid Wood , circa 1960

$1,345 Sale Price

20% Off

Antique African Coffee Table or Bench

Located in New York, NY

Beautiful coffee table or bench hand carved from a single block of wood from Mali. The wood is

Category

Vintage 1950s Minimalist Benches

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood

Antique African Coffee Table or Bench

$3,900

Pair of African Coffee Tables Sculptural Organic Tribal Bamileke Black MCM 1950s

Located in London, GB

A gorgeous and rare pair of tribal African trunk-hewn Mid Century coffee tables in wonderful

Category

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

Materials

Hardwood

Pair of African Coffee Tables Sculptural Organic Tribal Bamileke Black MCM 1950s

$4,750 / set

Andrianna Shamaris African Tray Coffee Table Or Side Table

By Andrianna Shamaris

Located in New York, NY

African coffee table or side table hand carved from one piece of wood from Cameroon, featuring a

Category

2010s Tribal Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood

Andrianna Shamaris African Tray Coffee Table Or Side Table

$1,290

An African Sculpted Coffee Table Africa 1970s

Located in HYÈRES, FR

An African Sculpted Coffee Table Africa 1970s. Nice patina. Probably a bed. Can be used as a

Category

Vintage 1970s Central African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

An African Sculpted Coffee Table Africa 1970s

$2,522

Rare Antique African Senufo Coffee Table or Bench

Located in New York, NY

Rare antique coffee table or bench hand carved by the Senufo tribes from a single block of wood

Category

Antique Early 1900s African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood

Rare Antique African Senufo Coffee Table or Bench

$3,800

Rare Antique African Senufo Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Rare antique coffee table hand carved by the Senufo tribes from a single block of wood, native to

Category

Vintage 1930s Tribal Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Reclaimed Wood

Rare Antique African Senufo Coffee Table

$4,500

Paul Kingma Style Brutalist Coffee Table Slate Craft South Africa

By Slate Craft Ltd.

Located in Baltimore, MD

A stunning slate tile pedestal coffee table by Slate Craft made in South Africa features brutalist

Category

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

Materials

Slate

Paul Kingma Style Brutalist Coffee Table Slate Craft South Africa

$2,995

20th Century African Carved Wooden Coffee Table in Original Patina

Located in High Point, NC

This 20th Century African carved wooden coffee table showcases exceptional craftsmanship and a

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

20th Century African Carved Wooden Coffee Table in Original Patina

$1,795

Coffee Table - FLUTE TABLE - BLACK/WHITE

Located in New York, NY

African craft. Founded by designer, Thabisa Mjo, the studio brings together technology and traditional

Category

2010s South African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Terrazzo

Coffee Table - FLUTE TABLE - BLACK/WHITE

$2,475

Coffee Table - FLUTE TABLE - WHITE/GREY

Located in New York, NY

African craft. Founded by designer, Thabisa Mjo, the studio brings together technology and traditional

Category

2010s South African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Terrazzo

Coffee Table - FLUTE TABLE - WHITE/GREY

$2,475

Circa Coffee Table in Walnut

By Lemon

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Through the introduction of the Circa coffee table, esteemed collaborator Yaniv Chen demonstrates a

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Walnut

Circa Coffee Table in Walnut

$5,824 / item

19th C. Senufo Bed Coffee Table

Located in Houston, TX

. Originally used as a bed that can also be used as a bench or a coffee table. Height to top of bed 24".

Category

Antique 19th Century African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

19th C. Senufo Bed Coffee Table

$6,800

African Onyx Coffee or Side Table in the Louis XVI Style, France circa 1960

Located in Labrit, Landes

Mid-century onyx coffee table, made in France with african onyx (Madagascar) and wood Made circa

Category

Vintage 1960s French Louis XVI Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Onyx

African Onyx Coffee or Side Table in the Louis XVI Style, France circa 1960

$791 Sale Price

45% Off

Fluted Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Fluted coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 140 L X 70 D X 32 H cm Materials: African Mahogany

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine

Fluted Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$9,031 / item

Bleached Ashanti Carved Elephant Coffee Table, 1960s

Located in Savannah, GA

A bleached African Ashanti carved elephant coffee table, 1960s. 21 inches wide by 20 inches deep

Category

Vintage 1960s African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Bleached Ashanti Carved Elephant Coffee Table, 1960s

$1,800

Sherpa Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Sherpa coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 160 L X 75 D X 43 H cm Materials: Shou Sugi Ban

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Sherpa Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$15,612 / item

Lyra Coffee Table in Red Travertine

Located in Amsterdam, NH

The Lyra coffee table embodies a resolute solidity of form that captivates with its understated yet

Category

21st Century and Contemporary South African Minimalist Coffee and Cockta...

Materials

Marble

Lyra Coffee Table in Red Travertine

$2,474 / item

Primal Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Primal coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 180 L X 80 D X 40 H cm Materials: shou sugi ban

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Primal Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$12,322 / item

Jive Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Jive coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 122 L X 85 D X 49 H cm Materials: Handmade Ceramic

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Jive Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$85,535 / item

Jewel Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Jewel coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 170 L X 110D X 37 H cm Materials: Solid Blackened

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Jewel Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$10,196 / item

Oromo Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Oromo coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 125 L X 120 D X 49 H cm Materials: walnut timber

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Oromo Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$17,510 / item

Ostrich Foot Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Ostrich Foot coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 120 L X 86 D X 43 H cm Materials: Sand Cast

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Ostrich Foot Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$12,610 / item

Boogie Nights Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Boogie Nights coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 185 L X 106 D X 35 H cm Materials: Antique

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

Boogie Nights Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$26,025 / item

So Disco Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

So Disco coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 107. 7L x 107. 9D x 39 H cm Materials: Smokey

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

So Disco Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$57,984 / item

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

Located in Geneve, CH

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio Dimensions: W 41.8 x D87.4 x H 34.6 cm. Materials

Category

2010s South African Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Limestone

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

$9,451 / item

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

Located in Geneve, CH

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio Dimensions: W 87.4 x D 41.8 x H 34.6 cm. Materials

Category

2010s South African Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Limestone

Limestone Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

$10,376 / item

Hardwood Camel Cart Turned Into Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Beautiful hardwood strapped with decorative iron Formerly a camel cart - legs have been made from the original wheels Waxed and retains a beautiful patina.

Category

Antique 19th Century African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Hardwood Camel Cart Turned Into Coffee Table

$3,850

Marble Patch Round Coffee Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Marble Patch round coffee table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 80 L X 81 D X 40 H cm Materials: White

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass, Steel

Marble Patch Round Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$7,638 / item

Late 20th Century Vintage Boho Bamileke Wood Coffee Table

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A fabulous vintage Boho coffee table. The African Bamileke table in a chic matte white finish

Category

Late 20th Century South African Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Late 20th Century Vintage Boho Bamileke Wood Coffee Table

$1,950

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

Located in Geneve, CH

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio Dimensions: W 41.8 x D87.4 x H 34.6 cm

Category

2010s South African Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

$9,860 / item

Keys Coffee Table by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

By Kevin Frankental

Located in Amsterdam, NL

The Keys collection draws inspiration from the bold simplicity of early 20th-century design, reflecting the geometric clarity of Koloman Moser’s work within the Vienna Secession move...

Category

2010s South African Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Beech, Lacquer

Keys Coffee Table by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

$3,302 / item

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

Located in Geneve, CH

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio Dimensions: W 87.4 x D 41.8 x H 34.6 cm

Category

2010s South African Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Olivia Emperador Neave Coffee Table by Nish Studio

$9,860 / item

KGBL Keenan Coffee Table

By KGBL

Located in New York, NY

The Keenan Coffee Table features African Ebony that's paired with a bronze interlayer and black

Category

2010s Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

KGBL Keenan Coffee Table

$9,500

Ash Wood Coffee Table with Arabesque-Inspired Legs & Stenciled Mandala Motif

By Shewekar Elgharably

Located in Cairo, EG

Ash Wood Coffee Table with Arabesque-Inspired Legs & Stenciled Mandala Motif. A classic table

Category

2010s African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ash

Ash Wood Coffee Table with Arabesque-Inspired Legs & Stenciled Mandala Motif

$2,400

Black Marble, Ebonized Oak & Brass Jewel Coffee Table by Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The modern jewel coffee table is designed by Egg Designs and manufactured in South Africa. This

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Black Marble, Ebonized Oak & Brass Jewel Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$5,520 / item

Blessing Hand Chiseled Ebonized & Shou Sugi Ban Hardwood Coffee Table

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The modern hand carved & Shou Sugi Ban black Blessing side table is part of the Blessing collection

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Blessing Hand Chiseled Ebonized & Shou Sugi Ban Hardwood Coffee Table

$3,870 / item

Brutalist Teal Ceramic & Verdigris Copper Coffee Table by Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

Egg Designs’ Boogie Nights coffee table (2021) is a bold, Brutalist-inspired piece handcrafted with

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Copper

Brutalist Teal Ceramic & Verdigris Copper Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$14,020 / item

African Senufo Bed

Located in East Hampton, NY

Senufo tribal bed from the ivory coast of Africa, made of African hardwood, also a great coffee

Category

Mid-20th Century Ivorian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

African Senufo Bed

$8,800

Curvature of Spacetime Limited Edition Coffee Table in Aluminum by Jesse Ede

Located in Geneve, CH

Curvature of Spacetime Limited Edition Coffee Table in Aluminum by Jesse Ede Limited Edition of 10

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Curvature of Spacetime Limited Edition Coffee Table in Aluminum by Jesse Ede

$22,194 / item

Surrealist Cast Brass, Etched Plume Coffee Table with Bronze Steel, Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

This surrealist coffee table by Egg Designs celebrates the eccentric beauty of the African ostrich

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Surrealist Cast Brass, Etched Plume Coffee Table with Bronze Steel, Egg Designs

$6,660 / item

Chelmsford Coffee Table in Oxblood High Gloss Lacquer and Oxidised Brass

By Kevin Frankental

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Chelmsford table stands as a testament to Lemon's unwavering commitment to honouring the past. This exquisite

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Chelmsford Coffee Table in Oxblood High Gloss Lacquer and Oxidised Brass

$5,284 / item

Chelmsford Oxidised Solid Brass and Glass Coffee Table in Uniform Green

By Kevin Frankental

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Inspired by 1960s Italian design, the Chelmsford table marries steel and glass, a combination

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Chelmsford Oxidised Solid Brass and Glass Coffee Table in Uniform Green

$5,284 / item

Chelmsford Oxidised solid brass and Glass Coffee Table in Cider Orange

By Kevin Frankental

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Inspired by 1960’s Italian design, the Chelmsford table marries steel and glass, a combination

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Chelmsford Oxidised solid brass and Glass Coffee Table in Cider Orange

$5,284 / item

Shou Sugi Ban Coffee Table, solid Brass Disc, bronzed Steel Base – Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

Brutalist and masculine. Part of the Primal collection, this sculptural coffee table by Egg Designs

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Shou Sugi Ban Coffee Table, solid Brass Disc, bronzed Steel Base – Egg Designs

$6,450 / item

Modern, Brutalist Style Brass, Shou Sugi Ban & Carved Walnut Oromo Coffee Table

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

This bespoke, luxurious and incredible detailed coffee table is part of the Oromo collection

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Modern, Brutalist Style Brass, Shou Sugi Ban & Carved Walnut Oromo Coffee Table

$9,320 / item

Marble, Glass and Brass, Marble Patch Round Coffee Table by Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The marble patch round coffee table is part of the Patch collection by Egg Designs. Patch makes

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass, Steel

Marble, Glass and Brass, Marble Patch Round Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$3,960 / item

Transit of Venus Round Coffee Table in Black Granite & Cast Bronze by Jesse Ede

Located in Geneve, CH

Transit of Venus Round Coffee Table in Black Granite & Cast Bronze by Jesse Ede Limited Edition of

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Transit of Venus Round Coffee Table in Black Granite & Cast Bronze by Jesse Ede

$28,535 / item

Chelmsford Lacquered Steel and Glass Coffee Table by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

By Kevin Frankental

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Chelmsford table stands as a testament to Lemon's unwavering commitment to honouring the past. This exquisite

Category

2010s South African Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Brass

Chelmsford Lacquered Steel and Glass Coffee Table by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

$5,284 / item

Solid Cast Brass, Shou Sugi Ban Wood Cant & Crystal Jeweled Sherpa Coffee Table

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The Sherpa coffee table is designed by Egg Designs and manufactured in South Africa. This high end

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Solid Cast Brass, Shou Sugi Ban Wood Cant & Crystal Jeweled Sherpa Coffee Table

$8,295 / item

John Dickinson Prototype African Table from the Firehouse, San Francisco

By John Dickinson

Located in Chicago, IL

John Dickinson Prototype African table from the Firehouse, SanFrancisco; Painted wood. This unique

Category

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

Materials

Wood

John Dickinson Prototype African Table from the Firehouse, San Francisco

$70,000 Sale Price

20% Off

Jive 70's Inspired Ceramic Mural, Brass & Black Hair on Hide Coffee Table

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The Jive coffee table is designed by Egg Designs and manufactured by a group of artisan in small

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Jive 70's Inspired Ceramic Mural, Brass & Black Hair on Hide Coffee Table

$46,050 / item

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

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rock Crystal, Pyrite

AFRICA — Tree of Life Table, Hand-Inlaid with Pyrite Crystals by Sidani Design

$8,500

So Disco Modern 70's Inspired Ceramic Glass & Brass Coffee Table by Egg Designs

By Egg Designs

Located in Bothas Hill, KZN

The So Disco coffee table is part of the So Disco collection designed by Egg Designs and

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

So Disco Modern 70's Inspired Ceramic Glass & Brass Coffee Table by Egg Designs

$31,350 / item

Gio Ponti low table made of African walnut wood and glass, Italy, 1950s

By Gio Ponti

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

Low table made of African walnut wood and glass, Italian craftsmanship, designed by Gio Ponti

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Gio Ponti low table made of African walnut wood and glass, Italy, 1950s

$6,845

Blessing Side Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Blessing Side Table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 60 L X 60 D X 65 H cm Materials: Chiseled Alien

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Blessing Side Table by Egg Designs

$3,819 / item

Puzzle Side Table by Egg Designs

Located in Geneve, CH

Puzzle side table by Egg Designs Dimensions: 61.5 L x 45 D x 63.5 H cm Materials: Antique copper

Category

2010s South African Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper, Steel

Puzzle Side Table by Egg Designs

$3,651 / item

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Africa Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the Africa coffee table you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, reclaimed wood and metal, every Africa coffee table was constructed with great care. Find 89 options for an antique or vintage Africa coffee table now, or shop our selection of 16 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a Africa coffee table — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A Africa coffee table is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Folk Art styles are sought with frequency. Andrianna Shamaris, Jesse Ede and Egg Designs each produced at least one beautiful Africa coffee table that is worth considering.

How Much is a Africa Coffee Table?

Prices for a Africa coffee table can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $59 and can go as high as $59,670, while the average can fetch as much as $2,119.

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 Africa Coffee Table

Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
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.
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.

Shop a wide variety of 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.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

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

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

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a center table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
The difference between a center table and a coffee table is usually size. Center tables tend to be larger-sized accent tables placed in the center of seating areas. On the other hand, coffee tables are smaller tables usually positioned in front of sofas and loveseats. On 1stDibs, find a variety of center tables and coffee tables.
What is the difference between a coffee table and a console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is the standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
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.
When did coffee tables become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
Are glass coffee tables durable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
Whether glass coffee tables are durable depends on the craftsmanship and the materials. Generally, tables with tempered glass are less likely to shatter and break. How well you care for a coffee table will also impact its life span. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of glass coffee tables.
How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do 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.

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