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.

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.

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 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 much does a coffee table cost?

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

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 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 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.

Nautical Coffee Tables

Ship Wheel Glass Table

Bronze Cocktail Table

Nautical Trunk

Category

Vintage 1940s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rope

Rare "Nautical" Circular Rope Coffee Table by Audoux-Minet

H 25 in Dm 36 in

Nautical Egyptian Inspired, Barge Style Verde Bronze Coffee Table Base

Located in Yonkers, NY

An Egyptian inspired contemporary nautical bronze coffee table base with rope design and verde

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Egyptian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Nautical Egyptian Inspired, Barge Style Verde Bronze Coffee Table Base

H 17.5 in W 37.5 in D 22 in

Contemporary Cast Bronze Nautical Rope Maison Jansen Style Coffee Table Base

By Maison Jansen

Located in Yonkers, NY

A contemporary bronze coffee table base in the manner of Maison Jansen, with nautical rope theme

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Contemporary Cast Bronze Nautical Rope Maison Jansen Style Coffee Table Base

H 19 in W 27 in D 25 in

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

Located in Nantucket, MA

An original ship's chrome porthole window converted to coffee or side table. The keys unscrew to

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

H 24 in Dm 21 in

Vintage Wood-N-Stuff Handcrafted Nautical Handmade Oak Rowboat Coffee Table 46"

Located in Dayton, OH

Vintage scaled down row boat or dinghy coffee / cocktail Table. Handmade from oak with beautifully

Category

Vintage 1970s American Bohemian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Oak

Vintage Wood-N-Stuff Handcrafted Nautical Handmade Oak Rowboat Coffee Table 46"

H 24 in W 46.5 in D 21.5 in

Porthole Low Table, Handcrafted Solid Wood Coffee Table

By Phloem Studio

Located in Stevenson, WA

Drawing inspiration from nautical design and brutalist architecture, the Porthole Low Table

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Porthole Low Table, Handcrafted Solid Wood Coffee Table

H 14.5 in W 36 in D 36 in

Metal Nautical Captains Trunk Aluminium & Brass Campaign Style

Located in BUSSUM, NH

Large metal Naiutical Captains trunk with new base to use as coffee table. Heavy handmade quality

Category

Vintage 1950s Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Metal Nautical Captains Trunk Aluminium & Brass Campaign Style

H 14.18 in W 38.59 in D 20.87 in

Midcentury Maison Jansen Campaign Style Coffee Table

Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight

Midcentury Maison Jansen Campaign Style Coffee Table A Cube Coffee table, the base has brass trim

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Midcentury Maison Jansen Campaign Style Coffee Table

H 15 in W 24 in D 24 in

original, coastal, 1980, bold, Nautical, modern, walnut wood, glass top

By Sara Hayat Design

Located in Greenwood Village, CO

Introducing the Samandar Coffee Table - a Bold and Original Nautical Design Immerse yourself in

Category

2010s Pakistani Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

original, coastal, 1980, bold, Nautical, modern, walnut wood, glass top

H 15 in W 64 in D 46 in

Knut Hesterberg "K9009" Coffee Table for Ronald Schmitt 1960s

By Ronald Schmitt, Knut Hesterberg

Located in Wien, Wien

The coffee table designed by Knut Hesterberg for Ronald Schmitt in 1960s Germany is a true

Category

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

Materials

Glass

Knut Hesterberg "K9009" Coffee Table for Ronald Schmitt 1960s

H 18.9 in Dm 43.31 in

Steel and Rope Coffee Table on Casters by Christopher Kreiling

By Christopher Kreiling Studio

Located in Los Angeles, CA

The Steel and Rope Coffee Table is a strong, well crafted piece of furniture. It glides easily

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Ta...

Materials

Steel

Steel and Rope Coffee Table on Casters by Christopher Kreiling

H 18 in Dm 32 in

Midcentury Italian Coffee Table in the Style of Gianfranco Frattini

By Gianfranco Frattini

Located in Roma, IT

A splendid Coffe Table, most probably, due to design and materials used, made in Italy between the

Category

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

Materials

Maple, Plywood

Midcentury Italian Coffee Table in the Style of Gianfranco Frattini

H 14.18 in W 41.74 in D 25.6 in

Coffee Table in Solid Canadian White Ash by Hinterland Design

By Hinterland Design

Located in Vancouver, BC

individual piece. Shown in main image is a 36" W x 18" H coffee table in solid Canadian white ash with a

Category

2010s Canadian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel, Brass

Coffee Table in Solid Canadian White Ash by Hinterland Design

H 18 in Dm 36 in

MAITLAND SMITH Patinated Bronze Mermen Square Glass Top Coffee Cocktail Table

By Maitland Smith

Located in Charlotte, NC

A Nautical inspired mermen cocktail table by Maitland Smith. Solid bronze patinated to a green/blue

Category

Late 20th Century Thai Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

MAITLAND SMITH Patinated Bronze Mermen Square Glass Top Coffee Cocktail Table

H 20 in W 23.25 in D 23.25 in

Ivory Fossil Stone Sculptural Coffee Table with Biomorphic Glass Top, circa 1980

Located in Saint Louis, MO

Mercer Island, this ivory white Fossil stone coffee table adds elegance, light, air and a natural stone

Category

Vintage 1980s American Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone

Ivory Fossil Stone Sculptural Coffee Table with Biomorphic Glass Top, circa 1980

H 16.5 in W 51 in D 35 in

Ziggy Hourglass Coffee Table in Glossy Red & Melange Orange by Emilio Nanni

By EMILIO NANNI, Saba Italia

Located in Brooklyn, NY

coffee tables made in metal rods and woven nautical cords, mixed together like the paints on an artist’s

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Ziggy Hourglass Coffee Table in Glossy Red & Melange Orange by Emilio Nanni

H 15.75 in Dm 17.33 in

Ziggy Hourglass Coffee Table in Glossy Blue & Melange Blue by Emilio Nanni

By EMILIO NANNI, Saba Italia

Located in Brooklyn, NY

coffee tables made in metal rods and woven nautical cords, mixed together like the paints on an artist’s

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Ziggy Hourglass Coffee Table in Glossy Blue & Melange Blue by Emilio Nanni

H 15.75 in Dm 17.33 in

Ziggy Barrel Coffee Table in Glossy Blue Frame & Melange Blue by Emilio Nanni

By EMILIO NANNI, Saba Italia

Located in Brooklyn, NY

coffee tables made in metal rods and woven nautical cords, mixed together like the paints on an artist’s

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Ziggy Barrel Coffee Table in Glossy Blue Frame & Melange Blue by Emilio Nanni

H 15.75 in Dm 17.33 in

Ziggy Barrel Coffee Table in Glossy Gray & Melange White Black by Emilio Nanni

By EMILIO NANNI, Saba Italia

Located in Brooklyn, NY

coffee tables made in metal rods and woven nautical cords, mixed together like the paints on an artist’s

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Ziggy Barrel Coffee Table in Glossy Gray & Melange White Black by Emilio Nanni

H 15.75 in Dm 17.33 in

Illuminated Drum Low Table

Located in Sagaponack, NY

A delightful, expressive and unique illuminated glass-topped low table crafted from a vintage bass

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Illuminated Drum Low Table

H 28.5 in W 29 in D 16.5 in

Italian Bronze Neoclassical Putti Di Mare Mermaid Cocktail Table

Located in Rio Vista, CA

Fantastic Italian nautical cocktail table or coffee table featuring a pair of patinated bronze

Category

20th Century Italian Neoclassical Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Italian Bronze Neoclassical Putti Di Mare Mermaid Cocktail Table

H 19.5 in W 60 in D 30 in

Venetian Cocktail Table in Dark Java Walnut and Copper Leaf by Studio Roeper

By Studio Roeper

Located in Napa, CA

"Venetian" cocktail table is inspired by the bold, geometric forms and rich contrast in materials found in

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Resin, Walnut

Venetian Cocktail Table in Dark Java Walnut and Copper Leaf by Studio Roeper

No Reserve

H 16 in W 60 in D 30 in

People Also Browsed

Great 18 Palmette Shallow Flush Ceiling Mount, Murano

By Barovier&Toso

Located in Tavarnelle val di Pesa, Florence

Here the larger version of the successful 12 leaves compact palmette ceiling fixture. This group of shallow ceiling mount Murano chandelier was first designed for a luxury yacht low...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount

Materials

Metal

Great 18 Palmette Shallow Flush Ceiling Mount, Murano

H 7.09 in Dm 32.29 in

'Plissé White Edition' Pleated Textile Table Lamp by Folkform for Örsjö

By Örsjö Industri AB

Located in Glendale, CA

'Plissé White Edition' pleated textile table lamp by Folkform for Örsjö. This unique table lamp was awarded “Lighting of the Year 2022” by Residence Magazine Sweden, who called it “...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Textile

'Plissé White Edition' Pleated Textile Table Lamp by Folkform for Örsjö

H 16.1 in Dm 11.5 in

Bespoke Octagon Smoked Murano Glass Mirror, in Stock

Located in Miami, FL

Bespoke octagon smoked Murano glass mirror, in stock Vivid and intense smoked or bronze glass block with naturally occurring air inclusions throughout Highly polished faceted pa...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Materials

Brass

Bespoke Octagon Smoked Murano Glass Mirror, in Stock

H 48 in W 33 in D 2.75 in

Sasco Semi-Flush Mount Brass Light Fixture, Custom Finishes

Located in Pound Ridge, NY

The Sasco is a versatile custom-made solid brass and glass globe light fixture, which can be mounted on the ceiling or wall. Shown here in our factory brass, an uneven unfinished br...

Category

2010s American Flush Mount

Materials

Brass

Sasco Semi-Flush Mount Brass Light Fixture, Custom Finishes

H 10 in Dm 12 in

Handcrafted Farmhouse Fluted Porcelain Pendant With Trumpet Shape

By DBO Home

Located in Sharon, CT

Classic, elegant, with a perfectly imperfect touch. On their own they make a statement with their gentle flared bottoms and deep fluting. Hang in multiples for extra oomph. These cas...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Handcrafted Farmhouse Fluted Porcelain Pendant With Trumpet Shape

H 16 in Dm 13.5 in

Leather Meander Wall Sconce

Located in Pound Ridge, NY

Our updated Meander Reader light with a larger cone shade and new upward angle feature. Bulb can be fully recessed. Comes with suggested LED bulb. Choose from over 25 leather color...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Leather Meander Wall Sconce

H 16 in W 5 in D 12 in

Modern Counter Stools in Walnut, Cicely Collection

By Bertu Furniture

Located in Oak Harbor, OH

These walnut counter height cicely stools are beautifully constructed from solid walnut in Ohio, USA. This stool was style-spotted at the Spring 2022 High Point Market. These stools ...

Category

2010s American Modern Stools

Materials

Walnut

Modern Counter Stools in Walnut, Cicely Collection

H 25 in Dm 14 in

Pair of Wrought Iron and Marble 'Entretoise' Side Tables by Design Frères

By Mathieu Matégot, Design Frères

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Chic pair of wrought Iron and marble 'Entretoise' side tables by Design Frères. Matte black wrought iron bases with polished white veined marble tops.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Side Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble, Wrought Iron

Pair of Wrought Iron and Marble 'Entretoise' Side Tables by Design Frères

H 18.5 in W 19 in D 19 in

Art Deco Set of 6 Chairs, Dudouyt Insp, France, 1940

By Charles Dudouyt

Located in Wiesbaden, DE

This set of six French Art Deco dining chairs in solid oak was created in the 1940s with a Charles Dudouyt inspiration. We can clearly see the work of the French school of the 194...

Category

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak

Art Deco Set of 6 Chairs, Dudouyt Insp, France, 1940

H 31.5 in W 16.15 in D 16.93 in

Bespoke Handmade Belgian Linen Sofa

Located in Jesteburg, DE

Introducing the home collection. An iconic, unobtrusive design. A small selection of timeless Flemish designs made by hand for us in a small third generation workshop in Belgium....

Category

2010s Belgian Modern Sofas

Materials

Linen

Bespoke Handmade Belgian Linen Sofa

H 31.5 in W 106.3 in D 39.38 in

Josef Hoffmann and the Wiener Werkstaette Fabric Department Pendant, Re-Edition

By Josef Hoffmann, Woka Lamps, Wiener Werkstätte

Located in Vienna, AT

A simple but sensational fixture, designed by Josef Hoffmann, for the fabric department of the Wiener Werkstaette on Kaerntnerstrasse in Vienna. Style and color of the fabric custom-...

Category

2010s Austrian Jugendstil Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Silk

Josef Hoffmann and the Wiener Werkstaette Fabric Department Pendant, Re-Edition

H 39.38 in Dm 37.41 in

Contemporary Round Center Coffee Table in Wood Marquetry Black & White

Located in Porto, PT

Santiago Center Table celebrates the 20th-century art movement, Cubism, with handcraft expertise. Rough and natural materials approach us with an exact message: modest luxury. This a...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Center Tables

Materials

Wood, Birdseye Maple

Contemporary Round Center Coffee Table in Wood Marquetry Black & White

H 17.72 in Dm 39.38 in

Tulip 520 Pendant by Wende Reid - Organic, Minimal, Artisanal

By Wende Reid

Located in Paddington, NSW

Artisanal Tulip 520 Pendant is custom made to order Inspired by nature, this original sculptural, signature hand-stitched Italian linen pendant lamp is a refined example of 21st ce...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Australian Organic Modern Chandeliers and ...

Materials

Copper, Brass

Tulip 520 Pendant by Wende Reid - Organic, Minimal, Artisanal

H 39.77 in Dm 20.48 in

Bespoke Round Italian Travertine Dining Table

Located in London, London

Travertine dining table Made to order in Italy Round top Dimensions can be adjusted Honed or polished finish Rounded or straight edges Travertine pedestal Photos show recently...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Travertine

Bespoke Round Italian Travertine Dining Table

H 30.71 in Dm 47.25 in

Contemporary Minimal Round Coffee Side Table in Travertine Stone Natural Pores

By Hommes Studio

Located in Porto, PT

Lunarys Large Side Table is an outstanding modern design piece. A key side table for a contemporary living room project seems to come directly from space. Made in travertine stone is...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Organic Modern Side Tables

Materials

Travertine

Contemporary Minimal Round Coffee Side Table in Travertine Stone Natural Pores

H 19.69 in W 23.63 in D 23.63 in

Contemporary Art-Inspired Round Bedside Table Nightstand Wood Marquetry

By Hommes Studio

Located in Porto, PT

Austria Bedside Table is the perfect choice for a luxury bedroom design. A modern nightstand table made in marquetry and can be customized to meet your style and favorite wood colors...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Night Stands

Materials

Wood

Contemporary Art-Inspired Round Bedside Table Nightstand Wood Marquetry

H 19.69 in W 21.66 in D 21.66 in

Recent Sales

1960s Danish Modern Style Inlay Coffee Table

Located in Livingston, NJ

A very unique handmade inlay top coffee table from the Brittany region of France. The star design

Category

Mid-20th Century French Arts and Crafts Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

1960s Danish Modern Style Inlay Coffee Table

H 15 in W 41 in D 24 in

Marble Coffee Table in White Carrara Marble with Glass Top

By Damiano Spelta

Located in Fairfield, CT

and designer Damiano Spelta of Milano. This contemporary nautically themed table is created in

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble

Marble Coffee Table in White Carrara Marble with Glass Top

H 14 in Dm 39 in

Idro Coffee Table in White Carrara Marble with Glass Top

By Damiano Spelta

Located in Fairfield, CT

and designer Damiano Spelta of Milano. This contemporary nautically themed table is created in

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble

Idro Coffee Table in White Carrara Marble with Glass Top

H 14 in Dm 39 in

Fabulous Modernist Nautical Chain Link Coffee Table in the style of Franz West

By Franz West

Located in Mount Penn, PA

A fabulous rectangular painted iron nautical chain link coffee or cocktail table with glass top

Category

Late 20th Century Austrian Modern Tables

Materials

Iron

Fabulous Modernist Nautical Chain Link Coffee Table in the style of Franz West

H 19 in W 59 in D 26 in

Ottoman Coffee Table Upholstered in Nautical Flannel Blanket on Barn Wood Base

Located in Madison, WI

Ottoman coffee table has been upholstered in soft flannel blanket of nautical design. Sits sturdily

Category

Mid-20th Century American Modern Ottomans and Poufs

Materials

Cotton, Reclaimed Wood

Ottoman Coffee Table Upholstered in Nautical Flannel Blanket on Barn Wood Base

H 16 in W 36 in D 36 in

Nautical Coffee Table

Located in Greenwich, CT

Unusual midcentury walnut coffee table incorporating a hand colored 18th century French engraved

Category

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

Materials

Walnut, Paper

Nautical Coffee Table

H 19.75 in W 41.5 in D 30.5 in

Mid-Century Modern Nautical Coffee Table In Teak

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Long cocktail table made of thick grated teak wood with sculpted bases. Made in the nautical ship

Category

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

Mid-Century Modern Nautical Coffee Table In Teak

H 19 in W 45 in D 25 in

Nautical Ships Wheel Coffee Table

Located in Essex, MA

With glass top over an inlaid spoked ships wheel with winch form support and circular base with ratcheted and spring mounted locking tabs.

Category

Early 20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Nautical Ships Wheel Coffee Table

H 21.25 in Dm 37 in

Vintage Marlin Fish Polished Brass Coffee Cocktail Table Nautical

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

This is an amazing, unique coffee cocktail table. Professionally polished brass Marlin Fish (3

Category

Vintage 1970s American Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage Marlin Fish Polished Brass Coffee Cocktail Table Nautical

H 16.5 in W 27 in D 24.5 in

French Nautical Églomisé Mirror Topped Coffee Table, circa 1940

By Jules Leleu

Located in Miami, FL

Chic French 1940s round coffee table. A heavily scrolled gilt wrought iron with twisted gilt iron

Category

20th Century French Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

French Nautical Églomisé Mirror Topped Coffee Table, circa 1940

H 20 in Dm 32 in

Nautical Chain Table

Located in East Hampton, NY

Round iron chain table with inset glass top, a unique side or coffee table.

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Nautical Chain Table

H 18 in Dm 28 in

Antique Nautical Ship's Chrome Porthole Window Converted To Coffee Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

This is a mid-century chrome nautical ship's rectangular porthole window converted to a table

Category

20th Century Unknown Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Antique Nautical Ship's Chrome Porthole Window Converted To Coffee Table

H 18 in W 36 in D 28 in

Nautical Chain Table Base

Located in East Hampton, NY

Great looking, heavy nautical chain coffee table base.....one could fit a glass top either inset or

Category

American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Nautical Chain Table Base

H 18 in W 50 in D 25 in

Ship's Nautical Teak Decking Coffee Table on Iron Base

Located in Nantucket, MA

Original ship's decking made of teak...allowing for easier traction on a wet deck. It is mounted on a custom-made iron base, Mid-Century.

Category

Mid-20th Century Nautical Objects

Materials

Teak

Ship's Nautical Teak Decking Coffee Table on Iron Base

H 20 in W 30 in D 20 in

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

Located in Nantucket, MA

An original ship's chrome porthole window converted to coffee or side table. The keys unscrew to

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

H 24 in Dm 21 in

Nautical scene, ceramic top table, Italy 1950's

Located in New York, NY

Very special Italian 1950's coffee / occasional table made with single hand-painted (nautical theme

Category

20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Nautical scene, ceramic top table, Italy 1950's

H 18.75 in W 29.5 in D 18 in

Unique Antique Nautical Window Custom Mounted as Table

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Sometimes custom mounting really does produce a masterpiece, as this bronze mounted nautical window

Category

Antique 19th Century Unknown Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Unique Antique Nautical Window Custom Mounted as Table

H 18 in W 27 in D 15 in

Nautical Ship's Chrome Window converted to a Table, C. 1960

Located in Nantucket, MA

A Nautical ship's chrome window with working "dogs"--the window will actually open--which has been

Category

20th Century Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Nautical Ship's Chrome Window converted to a Table, C. 1960

H 18 in W 24 in D 18 in

Rectangular Chain Coffee Table

Located in East Hampton, NY

Nautical chain coffee table with new inset glass.

Category

Mid-20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Rectangular Chain Coffee Table

H 18 in W 53 in D 28 in

Inlayed Slate Top Coffee Table

Located in Miami, FL

Marble top inlaid with colored stones . Nautical themes . Strict and elegant style for this coffee

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Inlayed Slate Top Coffee Table

H 17 in W 49.125 in D 23 in

Pair of White Lacquered Tree Trunk Tables with Nautical Chain Legs, Circa 1960

Located in North Miami, FL

coat of smooth white lacquer. Nautical now! Tables are the same height and length, with slight variance

Category

Vintage 1960s American Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

Pair of White Lacquered Tree Trunk Tables with Nautical Chain Legs, Circa 1960

H 15.5 in W 31.5 in D 27 in

Nautical Ship's Teak Decking on Custom Made Stand

Located in Nantucket, MA

Nautical Ship's Teak Decking with small brass nails on a custom-made teak wood stand. C. 1960

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Nautical Ship's Teak Decking on Custom Made Stand

H 18 in W 27 in D 22.5 in

Nautilus Shell Coffee Table in Dark Grey Goatskin

Located in North Miami, FL

A nautilus shell-shaped coffee table executed in gorgeous shades of charcoal grey goatskin, circa

Category

Vintage 1980s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Goatskin

Nautilus Shell Coffee Table in Dark Grey Goatskin

H 18.25 in W 40 in D 48 in

Free Form Glass Coffee Table with Propeller Base

Located in Culver City, CA

This is a Mid-Century Modern propeller style coffee table. It has a free form glass top and the

Category

Antique 1660s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass, Steel

Free Form Glass Coffee Table with Propeller Base

H 16 in W 41 in D 44 in

A French Coffee Table w/Laminated Top of Photo by Jean Clemmer

Located in San Francisco, CA

A stylish French 1960's round side/coffee table with laminated top of a marine scene by Swiss-born

Category

Vintage 1960s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

A French Coffee Table w/Laminated Top of Photo by Jean Clemmer

H 16.75 in Dm 23.75 in

Della Valle Bros Italian Marble Top Mariner Coffee Table with Later Brass Base

By Della Valle Brothers

Located in Milford, NH

A fine Italian marble top coffee table with applied early tall ship decoration, by the Della Valle

Category

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Della Valle Bros Italian Marble Top Mariner Coffee Table with Later Brass Base

H 15 in W 39.5 in D 19.75 in

Midcentury Brass and Chrome Ship's Window Converted to Coffee Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

A lovely combination of brass and chrome-over-brass original ship's window, converted into a coffee

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Midcentury Brass and Chrome Ship's Window Converted to Coffee Table

H 18 in W 27.5 in D 20 in

Ewald Dahlskog glass table

Located in Chicago, IL

Beutifully etched, nautical theme glass table by Swedish artist Ewald Dahlskog. Depicting 8 sailing

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Ewald Dahlskog glass table

H 16.75 in Dm 35.5 in

French Nautical Rope Kidney Coffee Table, Side Table, 1950s

Located in Vienna, AT

A beautiful nautical kidney table with a asymmetrical rope base, made in France in the 1950s.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Glass, Rope

French Nautical Rope Kidney Coffee Table, Side Table, 1950s

H 15 in W 26 in D 18 in

Martha Cahoon Oil Painting Inset Custom-Made Table

By Martha Cahoon

Located in Milford, NH

This wonderful oil painting insert in a nautical table was painted by American artist Martha Cahoon

Category

20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood Panel

Martha Cahoon Oil Painting Inset Custom-Made Table

H 20 in W 36.82 in D 22.38 in

Intricate Rope Work Nautical Coffee Table in the Style of Clifford M. Ashley

Located in Milford, NH

A finely crafted wooden nautical coffee table with glass display top revealing intricate sailor

Category

20th Century American Nautical Objects

Materials

Wood

Intricate Rope Work Nautical Coffee Table in the Style of Clifford M. Ashley

H 18 in W 48.5 in D 19.5 in

World War II Ship Hatch Coffee Table

Located in Bradenton, FL

Nautical coffee table using authentic WWII ship hatch door. Thick wood top with wide metal banded

Category

Mid-20th Century American Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

World War II Ship Hatch Coffee Table

H 15 in W 27 in D 59 in

WWII Molly Pitcher '1943' Ship Hatch Whale Form Anchor Nautical Coffee Table

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage custom-made Reclaimed Ship Hatch Coffee Table from the Maiden Voyage of the Sunken American

Category

Vintage 1970s American Folk Art Nautical Objects

Materials

Iron

WWII Molly Pitcher '1943' Ship Hatch Whale Form Anchor Nautical Coffee Table

H 15.5 in W 60 in D 24 in

Nautical Theme Coffee Cocktail Table

Located in New York, NY

Nautical theme coffee, cocktail table, with ships wheel "legs". This coffee table is part of a

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Nautical Theme Coffee Cocktail Table

H 16 in W 40 in D 21.5 in

Wooden Nautical Coffee and Cocktail Sofa Table

Located in Haddonfield, NJ

Industrial sofa table made from an architectural fragment from a schooner. Turquis metal paint is

Category

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

Materials

Iron

Wooden Nautical Coffee and Cocktail Sofa Table

H 16.8 in W 39.5 in D 23 in

Nautical Cocktail Table

Located in Norwell, MA

Mahogany cocktail table with authentic aluminum porthole top with glass window. Dark finish

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Nautical Cocktail Table

H 24.5 in W 22 in D 22 in

Ship's Nautical Porthole Converted to Coffee or Side Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

An original ship's chrome porthole window converted to coffee or side table. The keys unscrew to

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Nautical Porthole Converted to Coffee or Side Table

H 24 in Dm 21 in

Original Ship's Nautical Porthole Window Converted to Coffee Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

is been converted to a table with our exclusively designed custom made base. The rivets on the window

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Original Ship's Nautical Porthole Window Converted to Coffee Table

H 18 in W 41 in D 26 in

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee Table or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

Located in Nantucket, MA

An original ship's chrome porthole window converted to coffee table or side table. The keys unscrew

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee Table or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

H 18 in Dm 21 in

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

Located in Nantucket, MA

An original ship's chrome porthole window converted to coffee or side table. The keys unscrew to

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Nautical Porthole Coffee or Side Table By Deborah Lockhart Phillips

H 18 in Dm 21 in

Nautical Style Grid Top Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Long coffee table with grid top and iron leg base. Location: Brooklyn NY.

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Nautical Style Grid Top Table

H 17 in W 47 in D 27.5 in

Nautical Antique Ship's Chrome Porthole Converted to a Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

Original chrome ship's porthole converted to a table. Mid-century. The window is still functional

Category

20th Century Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

Nautical Antique Ship's Chrome Porthole Converted to a Table

H 18 in Dm 22 in

Side Table or Small Coffee Table

Located in East Hampton, NY

Wonderful Nautical inspired table with inset dark gray slate top with etched ship on face. Table

Category

Mid-20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Side Table or Small Coffee Table

H 16 in W 28 in D 20 in

Cees Braakman Style Copper Map Coffee Table

By Cees Braakman

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Mid-Century black enamel framed large coffee table with Copper Etched Top of Detailed Nautical

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Copper

Cees Braakman Style Copper Map Coffee Table

H 19 in W 58.75 in D 23.75 in

Egyptian Inspired Barge Style Bronze Coffee Table Base with Amun-Re Motif

Located in Yonkers, NY

An Egyptian inspired contemporary nautical bronze coffee table base with Amun-Re motif and rope

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Egyptian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Egyptian Inspired Barge Style Bronze Coffee Table Base with Amun-Re Motif

H 18 in W 36.3 in D 22 in

Original Ship's Window in Brass and Chrome Converted to Coffee Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

A solid brass ship's window from a decommissioned ship converted to a coffee table. The chrome

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Original Ship's Window in Brass and Chrome Converted to Coffee Table

H 18 in W 26 in D 20 in

Midcentury Brass and Chrome Ship's Window Converted to Coffee Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

A lovely combination of brass and chrome-over-brass original ship's window, converted into a coffee

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Midcentury Brass and Chrome Ship's Window Converted to Coffee Table

H 18 in W 27.5 in D 20 in

Caribbean Mahogany 40's Nautical Theme Coffee Table Brass Inlay

Located in Camden, ME

Beautifully grained revolving 1940's mahogany coffee table from a talented workshop in Montego Bay

Category

Vintage 1940s Jamaican Mid-Century Modern Tables

Caribbean Mahogany 40's Nautical Theme Coffee Table Brass Inlay

H 18 in Dm 36 in

Ship's Chrome Porthole Window Converted to Side Table

Located in Nantucket, MA

has been converted to a side table or coffee table, and can be disassembled bringing the window back

Category

Mid-20th Century Industrial Nautical Objects

Materials

Chrome

Ship's Chrome Porthole Window Converted to Side Table

H 18 in Dm 21 in

Ships Wheel Coffee or Side Table

Located in Fulton, CA

Nautical theme ships wheel coffee or side table. Fine joinery and craftsmanship. Crafted in solid

Category

Late 20th Century American Side Tables

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Ships Wheel Coffee or Side Table

H 19.75 in Dm 34 in

Painted Nautical Coffee Table

Located in New York City, NY

Custom made mahogany Chippendale style coffee table featuring a nautical scene of a ship painted

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Painted Nautical Coffee Table

H 19 in W 38 in D 21 in

Nautical Theme Brass Coffee Table with Marbled Mirror Glass, France c.1930.

Located in Houston, TX

A fabulous nautical coffee table with brass anchors enclosing the original patinated glass mirror

Category

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Nautical Theme Brass Coffee Table with Marbled Mirror Glass, France c.1930.

H 18 in W 33 in D 16 in

Nautical Brass Yacht Window Mounted as a Coffee Table, English, circa 1940

Located in Houston, TX

This unique nautical brass yacht window English coffee table circa 1940 is a terrific display

Category

Vintage 1940s English British Colonial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Nautical Brass Yacht Window Mounted as a Coffee Table, English, circa 1940

H 18 in W 22.25 in D 29.25 in

Nautical Chain Coffee Deck Garden Table

Located in New York, NY

Whimsical Welded Chain Table made from New York Harbor Anchor Chain. Great for use on the deck or

Category

Antique 19th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Nautical Chain Coffee Deck Garden Table

H 18 in W 50 in D 26 in

Industrial Nautical Chair Linked Coffee Table Base

Located in San Francisco, CA

Industrial Nautical Chain-Linked Coffee Table Base- U.S. 21st Century

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Industrial Nautical Chair Linked Coffee Table Base

H 19 in W 51 in D 27 in

Nautical Themed Cocktail Bar Table and Four Stools

Located in North Hollywood, CA

seats have been reupholstered in an outdoor fabric of nautical rope theme. The table top, resembling the

Category

Vintage 1950s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Nautical Themed Cocktail Bar Table and Four Stools

H 37 in Dm 25 in

Anchor Coffee Table

Located in Atlanta, GA

+ A unique sculptural coffee table made of found objects + A pair of vintage anchors rest

Category

20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Anchor Coffee Table

H 16.5 in W 40 in D 40 in

Copper Top Coffee Table

Located in Hudson, NY

square recessed copper tray with corner detail fitted to pieced hardwood nautical base

Category

Vintage 1940s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

Copper Top Coffee Table

H 20.5 in W 30 in D 30 in

Superb Antique Bronze Porthole Coffee Table

Located in Southfield, MI

Fantastic nautical theme coffee table created in the 1930's utilizing a vintage, ca. 1910 bronze

Category

Vintage 1930s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Superb Antique Bronze Porthole Coffee Table

H 15.5 in W 35 in D 25 in

Steel & Glass Table

Located in San Francisco, CA

Industrial steel cylindrical nautical windows with brushed brass inlay with glass inset top.

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass

Steel & Glass Table

H 12.5 in Dm 18.24 in

Get Updated with New Arrivals

Save "Nautical Coffee Tables", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Nautical Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

Find a variety of nautical coffee tables available on 1stDibs. The range of distinct nautical coffee tables — often made from metal, chrome and wood — can elevate any home. Nautical coffee tables have been produced for many years, with earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. Industrial, Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency nautical coffee tables are consistently popular styles. Some nautical coffee tables are too large for some spaces — a variety of smaller nautical coffee tables, measuring 22 inches across, are available at 1stDibs. Nautical coffee tables have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet are consistently popular.

How Much are Nautical Coffee Tables?

Nautical coffee tables can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price at 1stDibs is $2,275, while the lowest priced sells for $575 and the highest can go for as much as $7,500.

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 Nautical Coffee Tables

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.
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.
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 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 much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
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 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 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.

The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home

Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.

Riotous Shapes and Colors Have Made Uchronia’s Designs the Toast of Paris

Julien Sebban’s energetic design collective is radically reshaping the look of 21st-century European furniture and interiors.

Is Lionel Jadot the Willy Wonka of Upcycled Belgian Design?

From his massive collaborative workshop in a former paper factory, the designer concocts funky furniture from disused materials, as well as luxe hotel interiors like the new Mix Brussels.