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.

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.

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.

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 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 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 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 I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How do you date a Lane coffee table?

To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.

What is 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.

What is the best height for a coffee table?

The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.

What is 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.

Checkered Coffee Table

Teak Sled Leg Table

Laminate Table Mcm

Burl Wood Black Lacquer

Chess Table Set

Denmark Chess

Willy Rizzo Burl

Burl Wood Veneer Tables

Checker Top

Black and White Checker Coffee Table w/ Storage in Walnut by John Keal 1950s

$5,500

H 16 in W 40 in D 40 in

Black and White Checker Coffee Table w/ Storage in Walnut by John Keal 1950s

By John Keal, Brown Saltman

Located in Troy, MI

Geometric coffee table designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman USA circa 1950's Walnut base with

Category

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

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

Walnut Patchwork Large Checker Pattern Top Large Rectangle Coffee Table

$3,600

H 16 in W 64 in D 28 in

Walnut Patchwork Large Checker Pattern Top Large Rectangle Coffee Table

By Milo Baughman

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Oversize chrome base large rectangle coffee table in style of M. Baughman. Floating top on chrome

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Danish Modern Checkered Wengé & Mahogany Coffee Table by Gorm Lindum, 1970s

$1,171

H 20.87 in W 30.32 in D 18.71 in

Danish Modern Checkered Wengé & Mahogany Coffee Table by Gorm Lindum, 1970s

By Grom Lindum

Located in Esbjerg, DK

This coffee table, designed by Danish architect Gorm Lindum, features a simple, rectangular Wengé

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Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Coffee Table Made In Rosewood With Checkered Pattern, Danish Design From 1960s

$1,053

H 19.69 in W 63 in D 24.41 in

Coffee Table Made In Rosewood With Checkered Pattern, Danish Design From 1960s

Located in Lejre, DK

Crafted from exquisite rosewood, this coffee table epitomizes the timeless elegance of Danish

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

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Willy Rizzo Coffee Bar Table in Checkered Burl Wood & Black Stained Veneer, 1970

$3,160Sale Price|20% Off

H 15.75 in W 39.37 in D 39.37 in

Willy Rizzo Coffee Bar Table in Checkered Burl Wood & Black Stained Veneer, 1970

By Willy Rizzo

Located in Cheyenne, WY

This coffee bar table by Willy Rizzo, emulative of the Art Deco influence during the 1970s

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Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Chrome

Mid Century Modern Checker Style Tile Top Coffee Table in Brass Frame

$2,800

H 17 in W 56 in D 19 in

Mid Century Modern Checker Style Tile Top Coffee Table in Brass Frame

By Gio Ponti

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Very nice art tile coffee table top frame in brass "frame" banding around the edge.

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

Materials

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Recent Sales

Coffee Bar Table in Checkered Burl Wood and Black Stained Veneer, circa 1970

Unavailable

H 15.75 in W 39.37 in D 39.37 in

Coffee Bar Table in Checkered Burl Wood and Black Stained Veneer, circa 1970

By Willy Rizzo

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Elevate your living space with the exquisite beauty of this stunning Coffee Bar Table, masterfully

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Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Chrome

1980 Art Deco Check Glass Coffee Table

Unavailable

H 13.5 in W 32 in D 32 in

1980 Art Deco Check Glass Coffee Table

Located in Staten Island, NY

Unique art deco style coffee table with checker pattern on the glass. The legs are made of rosewood

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Vintage 1980s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Wood

Rolf Middelboe Attrib Vintage Marquetry Checkered Coffee Table

Sold

H 20 in W 46.75 in D 46.75 in

Rolf Middelboe Attrib Vintage Marquetry Checkered Coffee Table

By Rolf Middelboe

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Rare Rolf Middelboe attrib Vintage Marquetry Checkered Coffee Table

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Vintage 1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Wood

Early 20th Century French Checkered Coffee Table

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H 19.3 in W 15 in D 15 in

Early 20th Century French Checkered Coffee Table

Located in High Point, NC

This petite coffee table crafted in France circa 1910 flaunts a variety of geometric detailing and

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Vintage 1910s French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Hardwood

Stylish Checkered Coffee Table by John Keal for Brown Saltman

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H 16.25 in W 40 in D 40 in

Stylish Checkered Coffee Table by John Keal for Brown Saltman

By John Keal

Located in Brooklyn, NY

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Vintage 1960s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Walnut

3 FT Square John Keal For Brown Saltman Checkered Coffee Table

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H 16 in W 36 in D 36 in

3 FT Square John Keal For Brown Saltman Checkered Coffee Table

Located in Pasadena, TX

A mid century modern square coffee table designed by John Keal and made by Brown Saltman. A walnut

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Laminate, Walnut

John Keal For Brown-Saltman Square Walnut And Laminate Checkered Coffee Table

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H 17 in W 35 in D 35 in

John Keal For Brown-Saltman Square Walnut And Laminate Checkered Coffee Table

By Brown Saltman, John Keal

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Gorgeous, mid-century modern, square walnut coffee table by John Keal for Brown Saltman features a

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

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Italian wooden coffee table checker pattern

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H 16.54 in W 48.04 in D 20.48 in

Italian wooden coffee table checker pattern

Located in Den Haag, NL

Italian wooden coffee table with checker pattern.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Brutalist Style Dark Stained Checkered Top Coffee Table

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H 12.875 in W 39.5 in D 39.5 in

Brutalist Style Dark Stained Checkered Top Coffee Table

By Paul Evans

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Dark stained square top coffee table with checkered wood top and clunky square legs. In original

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

Materials

Wood

Mid century modern Lane walnut checkered parsons coffee table

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H 15 in W 57 in D 19 in

Mid century modern Lane walnut checkered parsons coffee table

By Lane Furniture

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Mid century modern Lane walnut checkered parsons coffee table. Great Solid Coffee table. Simple

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

John Keal Brown Saltman Checkered Top Walnut Coffee Table

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H 16.25 in W 40 in D 40 in

John Keal Brown Saltman Checkered Top Walnut Coffee Table

By John Keal, Brown Saltman

Located in Phoenix, AZ

John Keal for Brown Saltman walnut cocktail table circa early 1960s. This all original example has

Category

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

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

Checkerboard Coffee Table by Milo Baughman Black and White, Signed Thayer Coggin

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H 10 in W 48 in L 10 in

Checkerboard Coffee Table by Milo Baughman Black and White, Signed Thayer Coggin

By Milo Baughman, Thayer Coggin

Located in Kansas City, MO

Rare large black and white checker board coffee table designed by Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin

Category

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

Materials

Wood

John Keal Walnut Checkered Coffee Table for Brown Saltman

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H 16.25 in W 40 in D 40 in

John Keal Walnut Checkered Coffee Table for Brown Saltman

By John Keal

Located in Chula Vista, CA

One of kind and hard to find checkered coffee table designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman. Solid

Category

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

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Walnut, Formica

Mario Sabot Mid-Century Modern Brushed Metal "Checkered" Italian Coffee Table

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H 11.82 in W 55.12 in D 33.47 in

Mario Sabot Mid-Century Modern Brushed Metal "Checkered" Italian Coffee Table

By Mario Sabot

Located in Ibiza, Spain

The "Checkered" coffee table, designed by Mario Sabot in the 1950s, features a distinctive

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Danish Teak Checker Board Coffee Table by Cado with Carved Modernist Chess Set

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H 15.5 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Danish Teak Checker Board Coffee Table by Cado with Carved Modernist Chess Set

By Poul Cadovius, Cado

Located in Peabody, MA

Danish teak coffee table designed by Poul Cadovius for Cado Collections features checker board

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

Materials

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Large Mid-Century Modern Brown and White Checkered Rectangular Cocktail Table

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H 14 in W 66 in D 36 in

Large Mid-Century Modern Brown and White Checkered Rectangular Cocktail Table

Located in Philadelphia, PA

An amazing large cocktail table designed and produced in the early 1970s. It consists of individual

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

Materials

Laminate, Wood

Paul Cadovius Danish Teak Coffee Table

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H 15.63 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Paul Cadovius Danish Teak Coffee Table

By Poul Cadovius

Located in Cincinnati, OH

A sled leg teak wood coffee table with checker board styled top manufactured by the Cado Furniture

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

Danish Modern Rosewood Chess and Coffee Table by Poul Cadovius, 1960s.

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H 19.49 in W 37.8 in D 37.8 in

Danish Modern Rosewood Chess and Coffee Table by Poul Cadovius, 1960s.

By Poul Cadovius, France & Søn

Located in Asaa, DK

Modern checkered parquet coffee table from the series "Governor". Designed by Danish designer Poul

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Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Mid-Century Italian Coffee Table Chess Set and Chairs, c.1950s

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H 19.5 in W 39.5 in D 39.5 in

Mid-Century Italian Coffee Table Chess Set and Chairs, c.1950s

Located in San Francisco, CA

polychrome and gesso hand carved coffee table with checker board chess table top and carved figures

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

Materials

Leather, Gesso, Wood

Vintage Dakota Jackson Checkered Coffee Table

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H 18 in W 40 in D 40 in

Vintage Dakota Jackson Checkered Coffee Table

By Dakota Jackson

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Vintage Dakota Jackson for lane checkered coffee table. Wood veneer grain placed in contrasting

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1990s North American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Wood

Checkered Burlwood Table

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H 14.75 in W 51 in D 30.75 in

Checkered Burlwood Table

Located in San Francisco, CA

Attributed to Paul Evans. Rectangular cocktail tabled, burled walnut veneer with brass sheet metal

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Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

John Keal for Brown-Saltman Checkered Top Walnut Coffee Table

Sold

H 16 in W 40 in D 40 in

John Keal for Brown-Saltman Checkered Top Walnut Coffee Table

By John Keal

Located in San Francisco, CA

A fantastic Mid-Century Modern walnut coffee table with checkered laminate top by John Keal for

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

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

California Craft Cocktail Table and Chess, Checker Board

Sold

H 14 in W 33 in D 33 in

California Craft Cocktail Table and Chess, Checker Board

Located in San Diego, CA

California Craft cocktail table and chess, checker board, circa 1970s. Quality craftsmanship of

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Coffee Table by Milo Baughman for Brown Saltman

Sold

H 16 in W 40 in D 40 in

Coffee Table by Milo Baughman for Brown Saltman

By Milo Baughman, Brown Saltman

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Checkered pattern coffee or cocktail table attributed to Milo Baughman for Brown Saltman. The top

Category

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

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

Danish Mid-Century Modern Square Coffee Table

Sold

H 30 in W 38 in D 38 in

Danish Mid-Century Modern Square Coffee Table

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This Vintage Danish Checkered Top Coffee Table is made out of rosewood, mahogany, and been fully

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Mahogany, Maple, Rosewood, Lacquer

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Checkered Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the checkered coffee table you’re looking for. Each checkered coffee table for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using wood, walnut and laminate. There are many kinds of the checkered coffee table you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. A checkered coffee table, designed in the Mid-Century Modern or Scandinavian Modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. You’ll likely find more than one checkered coffee table that is appealing in its simplicity, but John Keal, Brown Saltman and Cado produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Checkered Coffee Table?

Prices for a checkered coffee table can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $950 and can go as high as $6,071, while the average can fetch as much as $2,200.

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 Checkered Coffee Table

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.
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.
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.
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 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 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 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 I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do you date a Lane coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is 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.
What is the best height for a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.
What is the best coffee table for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.
What is 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.

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