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.

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 standard size of a coffee table?

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

What is a tray top coffee table?

Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

How do you style an oval coffee table?

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

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

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

How much does a coffee table cost?

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

When did coffee tables become popular?

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

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.

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.

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.

Plexi Coffee Tables

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Couple of Plexi Coffee Tables with Brass Details and Crystal Top, 1980

H 27.56 in W 23.63 in D 23.63 in

Modern Industrial Plexiglass Coffee Table by Peter Harrison Metal Lucite Acrylic

By Peter Harrison

Located in Middle Grove, NY

Acrylic Argon by Peter Harrison is a stunning coffee table made from 1.5 inch thick acrylic

Category

2010s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Stainless Steel

Modern Industrial Plexiglass Coffee Table by Peter Harrison Metal Lucite Acrylic

H 16 in W 36 in D 36 in

Plexi Tate Bench by Barlas Baylar

By Barlas Baylar

Located in New York, NY

The elegantly poised Plexi Coffee Table is carved out of a continuous slab of walnut, with the

Category

2010s North American Benches

Materials

Plexiglass, Walnut

Plexi Tate Bench by Barlas Baylar

H 16 in W 36 in D 60 in

Vintage Stylish Coffee Table in Plexiglass & Brass, Italian Coffee Table, 1970s

Located in Bastogne, BE

the most desirable central items of a glamorous house. The Plexiglas coffee table is located on a

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Vintage Stylish Coffee Table in Plexiglass & Brass, Italian Coffee Table, 1970s

H 20.87 in Dm 19.69 in

Coffee Table Model Fuffly Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Fluffy model from Candy Collection designed by Studio Superego with

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table Model Fuffly Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

H 15.75 in Dm 23.63 in

Coffee Table/Bench Model Elisa Macaron Candy Collection by Studio Superego

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Elisa Macaron model from the Candy Collection designed by Studio

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table/Bench Model Elisa Macaron Candy Collection by Studio Superego

H 13 in Dm 25.2 in

Coffee Table Model Co' Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Co' Licorice model from the Candy Collection designed by Studio

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table Model Co' Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

H 21.66 in Dm 21.66 in

Coffee Table Model Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Pop Licorice model with six steel legs from the Candy Collection

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Coffee Table Model Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

H 17.72 in Dm 31.5 in

Coffee Table Model Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Pop Licorice model with six brass legs from the Candy Collection

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Coffee Table Model Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego, Italy

H 17.72 in Dm 31.5 in

Coffee Table Model Gae Pop-Licorice Model Candy Collection by Studio Superego

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table from the Candy Collection designed by Studio Superego with the

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table Model Gae Pop-Licorice Model Candy Collection by Studio Superego

H 19.69 in W 47.25 in D 47.25 in

Coffee Table Model Ettore Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Ettore Pop Licorice model with a single brass leg from the Candy

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Coffee Table Model Ettore Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego

H 17.72 in Dm 31.5 in

Coffee Table Model Ettore Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Ettore Pop Licorice model with a single steel leg from the Candy

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Coffee Table Model Ettore Pop-Licorice Candy Collection by Studio Superego

H 17.72 in Dm 31.5 in

Coffee Table Model Lella e Max Multy Candy Candy Collection by Studio Superego

By Studio Superego

Located in Milan, Italy

Colored plexiglass coffee table Lella e Max Multy Candy from Candy Collection designed by Studio

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table Model Lella e Max Multy Candy Candy Collection by Studio Superego

H 12.6 in W 59.06 in D 59.06 in

Acrylic Side Table with Brass Inlay

By Domus Linea

Located in Munich, Bavaria

decor. With its durable construction and refined aesthetic, this plexiglass coffee table is both a

Category

20th Century German Post-Modern Side Tables

Materials

Goatskin

Acrylic Side Table with Brass Inlay

H 15.75 in W 27.56 in D 27.56 in

Italian 1960s Coffee Table In Plexiglass And Brass Romeo Rega Style

By Romeo Rega

Located in Firenze, FI

Particular and interesting plexiglass coffee table. The sturdy cube-shaped structure is made of

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Italian 1960s Coffee Table In Plexiglass And Brass Romeo Rega Style

H 20.48 in W 19.69 in D 19.69 in

"Abstraction #1" Coffee Table in Plexiglass

By Kalarara

Located in Roma, RM

“Abstraction # 1 "is both a rectangular coffee table and a functional piece of art. This unique

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Lead, Gold Leaf

"Abstraction #1" Coffee Table in Plexiglass

H 18.51 in W 40.16 in D 43.31 in

French Plexiglass and Glass Coffee Table, 1980s

Located in GRENOBLE, FR

Coffee table with Plexiglas base and 1cm thick glass top. Stamp "Les invisibles du marais" on the

Category

Mid-20th Century French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

French Plexiglass and Glass Coffee Table, 1980s

H 14.57 in W 23.63 in D 47.25 in

Unique Globe Coffee Table with Plexi Base, 1990s

Located in Antwerp, BE

This unique round globe coffee table, crafted in Europe during the 1990s, offers a contemporary

Category

1990s European Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Resin, Plexiglass

Unique Globe Coffee Table with Plexi Base, 1990s

H 19.3 in W 49.61 in D 49.61 in

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Pink Coffee Table "Prima Materia"

By Marco Pettinari

Located in Roma, IT

The acrylic coffee tables Molecula, are inspired by the etymological meaning of the word molecule

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Acrylic, Plexiglass

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Pink Coffee Table "Prima Materia"

H 16.93 in W 13.78 in D 14.57 in

Rodney Kisman Coffee Table for Bieffeplast Model T14, plexiglass

By Rodney Kinsman, Bieffeplast

Located in Milano, IT

A striking coffee table designed by Rodney Kinsman for Bieffeplast, dating back to the 1970s in

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Rodney Kisman Coffee Table for Bieffeplast Model T14, plexiglass

H 21.26 in W 28.35 in D 24.02 in

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Yellow Coffee Table "Prima Materia"

By Marco Pettinari

Located in Roma, IT

Prima Materia, is a project that ranges between art and design and explicitly refers to the Aristotelian concept of matter. For Aristotle the concept of matter (hylé) is associated ...

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Yellow Coffee Table "Prima Materia"

H 16.93 in W 13.78 in D 14.57 in

Acrylic Coffee Table with Drawer, Plexiglass Lucite

Located in Halle, DE

Transparent coffee or sofa table made of Acrylic / Plexiglass. 80s. Designer and Manufacturer

Category

Vintage 1980s European Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Acrylic

Acrylic Coffee Table with Drawer, Plexiglass Lucite

H 14.97 in W 34.26 in D 15.75 in

Post modern glass Coffee Table with color plexiglass round bases

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Unique Post modern glass Coffee Table with large color plexiglass round bases. Beautiful 3 base

Category

Vintage 1980s American Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

Post modern glass Coffee Table with color plexiglass round bases

H 20 in Dm 48 in

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Pink Coffee Table "Molecula" Sand Blasted

By Marco Pettinari

Located in Roma, IT

The acrylic coffee tables Molecula, are inspired by the etymological meaning of the word molecule

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

21st Century Sculptural Plexiglass Pink Coffee Table "Molecula" Sand Blasted

H 16.93 in W 13.78 in D 14.57 in

Contemporary Limited Edition Acrylic, Plexiglass Designer Coffee Table Patch by

By Taras Yoom

Located in วัฒนา, TH

purchased it, and take on not only the role of a table. Patch has its own will and can obey disreputable

Category

2010s Thai Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Acrylic, Plexiglass

Contemporary Limited Edition Acrylic, Plexiglass Designer Coffee Table Patch by

H 17.72 in W 31.5 in D 19.69 in

William Andrus for Steelcase Coffee Table in Fiberglass Plexiglass Mirror

By William Andrus, Steelcase

Located in Waalwijk, NL

William C. Andrus for Steelcase, coffee table, lacquered fiberglass, plexiglass, mirrored glass

Category

Vintage 1970s American Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mirror, Fiberglass, Plexiglass

William Andrus for Steelcase Coffee Table in Fiberglass Plexiglass Mirror

H 21.66 in W 29.93 in D 29.93 in

Studio Superego Modern Wood and Multicolor Plexiglass Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Madrid, ES

Arti table, halfway between design and art. Created by the Milanese Studio Superego, where warm and

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass, Wood

Studio Superego Modern Wood and Multicolor Plexiglass Italian Coffee Table

H 18.51 in W 76.78 in D 37.8 in

Studio Superego Modern Wood and Multicolor Plexiglass Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Ibiza, Spain

The Arti table, crafted by Milanese Studio Superego, represents a synthesis of design and art

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cock...

Materials

Plexiglass, Wood

Studio Superego Modern Wood and Multicolor Plexiglass Italian Coffee Table

H 15.75 in W 76.78 in D 44.1 in

Italian modern coffee table in purple plexiglass and smoked glass, 1970s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian modern coffee table in purple plexiglass and smoked glass, 1970s Round base coffee table

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

Italian modern coffee table in purple plexiglass and smoked glass, 1970s

H 10.44 in W 33.08 in D 33.08 in

Custom Wood Coffee Table Shown with Plexiglass Top

By LF Upholstery

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Bryant coffee table is a versatile addition that can be used as both a coffee table and nite

Category

2010s American Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Custom Wood Coffee Table Shown with Plexiglass Top

H 18 in W 34 in D 34 in

Monumental Square Coffee Table, Chrome, Brass and Plexiglass, 1970s, Italy

Located in New York, NY

Beautiful and rare large scale square coffee table, made in Italy in 1970. In lovely vintage

Category

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

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Monumental Square Coffee Table, Chrome, Brass and Plexiglass, 1970s, Italy

H 15.5 in W 47.5 in D 47.5 in

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Madrid, ES

Rectangular coffee table designed by Milanese Studio Superego, made in multi-color and transparent

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

H 19.3 in W 59.06 in D 27.56 in

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Madrid, ES

Rectangular coffee table designed by Milanese Studio Superego, made in multi-color and transparent

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

H 18.12 in W 61.42 in D 27.56 in

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Ibiza, Spain

Rectangular Coffee Table by Milanese Studio Superego Introducing the elegant rectangular coffee

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

H 17.72 in W 58.67 in D 27.56 in

Rectangular Glass Coffee Table with Bronze and Plexiglass Frame, Italy, 1980s

Located in Albano Laziale, Rome/Lazio

A large vintage coffee table made in Italy in the 1970's with a crescent shaped frame in bronze and

Category

20th Century Italian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Rectangular Glass Coffee Table with Bronze and Plexiglass Frame, Italy, 1980s

H 13 in W 66.93 in D 35.44 in

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Ibiza, Spain

Rectangular coffee table designed by Milanese Studio Superego, made in multi-color and transparent

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Studio Superego Modern Multicolor Plexiglass and Brass Feet Italian Coffee Table

H 17.72 in W 58.67 in D 27.56 in

Barlas Baylar, Hudson NYC Walnut and Plexi Base Waterfall Edge Coffee Table

Located in Napa, CA

Barlas Baylar, Hudson NYC Walnut and Plexi Base Waterfall Edge Coffee Table. Solid claro walnut

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass, Wood

Barlas Baylar, Hudson NYC Walnut and Plexi Base Waterfall Edge Coffee Table

H 16 in W 60 in D 28 in

Italian Post-Modern Cylindrical Coffee Tables in Grey and Blue Plexiglass, 2000s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian post-modern Cylindrical coffee tables in grey and blue plexiglass, 2000s Pair of

Category

Early 2000s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Italian Post-Modern Cylindrical Coffee Tables in Grey and Blue Plexiglass, 2000s

H 16.93 in Dm 19.89 in

20th Century Plexiglass Glass and Gold Metal Design Italian Coffee Table, 1980

Located in Vicoforte, Piedmont

Italian coffee table from the 70s/80s. Design furniture in plexiglass, glass and golden metal of

Category

Late 20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

20th Century Plexiglass Glass and Gold Metal Design Italian Coffee Table, 1980

H 18.12 in W 27.56 in D 27.56 in

Coffee Table White Marble inlaid Top Plexiglass Legs Handmade in Italy Available

By Cupioli made in Italy

Located in Rimini, IT

Coffee table with a white marble top, decorated on the surface with our old technique of the

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble

Coffee Table White Marble inlaid Top Plexiglass Legs Handmade in Italy Available

H 16.15 in Dm 27.56 in

Italian space age Coffee table with lamp in smoked glass and plexiglass, 1970s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian space age Coffee table with lamp in smoked glass and plexiglass, 1970s Coffee table with

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Space Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

Italian space age Coffee table with lamp in smoked glass and plexiglass, 1970s

H 13.78 in Dm 35.04 in

Base For Coffee Table on Antique Gilded Wood and Plexiglass

Located in Alessandria, Piemonte

Base for coffee table with three antique round sculpture bases in gilded wood, connected with plexi

Category

Late 20th Century Indian Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Palmwood

Base For Coffee Table on Antique Gilded Wood and Plexiglass

H 11.82 in Dm 29.53 in

Acrylic Modern Coffee Table by Peter Harrison, Plexiglass Metal & Lucite Stock

By Peter Harrison

Located in Middle Grove, NY

Acrylic Argon by Peter Harrison is a stunning coffee table made from 1.5 inch thick acrylic

Category

2010s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel, Aluminum

Acrylic Modern Coffee Table by Peter Harrison, Plexiglass Metal & Lucite Stock

H 16 in W 36 in D 36 in

21st Century Sopovria Re Side Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

By Sovrappensiero, JCP UNIVERSE

Located in Cantù, Lombardia

central table, a little creature here to keep us company." Sopovria RE Side table with frosted Plexiglas

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

21st Century Sopovria Re Side Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

H 11.82 in Dm 23.63 in

21st Century Sopovria Va Side Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

By Sovrappensiero, JCP UNIVERSE

Located in Cantù, Lombardia

central table, a little creature here to keep us company." Sopovria VA Side table with frosted Plexiglas

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

21st Century Sopovria Va Side Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

H 17.72 in Dm 17.72 in

21st Century Sopovria So Central Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

By Sovrappensiero, JCP UNIVERSE

Located in Cantù, Lombardia

central table, a little creature here to keep us company." Sopovria SO Central table with frosted

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

21st Century Sopovria So Central Table in Frosted Plexiglass by Sovrappensiero

H 13.78 in W 35.44 in D 35.44 in

Coffee Table 1980s

Located in Ljubljana, SI

Coffee table 1980s Table with plexi top, stainless steel up frame and wood down frame.

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Coffee Table 1980s

H 11.82 in W 19.69 in D 19.69 in

Vintage sliding top coffee table or display coffee table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Vintage display coffee table with a sliding glass top. This luxurious coffee table is made from

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Vintage sliding top coffee table or display coffee table, 1970s

H 16.54 in W 42.52 in D 42.52 in

Blue Butterflies Coffee Table

Located in Paris, FR

Coffee Table Blue Butterflies with top box frame in plexiglass and with removable upper table top

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Blue Butterflies Coffee Table

H 14.57 in W 49.22 in D 39.38 in

Michel Dumas Coffee Table

By Michel Dumas

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Michel Dumas coffee table. Located in NY.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

Michel Dumas Coffee Table

H 14.5 in Dm 32 in

Charles Hollis Jones Plexiglass and Brass Italian Square Cocktail Table, 1970s

By Charles Hollis Jones

Located in Roma, IT

Wonderful Hollywood Regency coffee table or cocktail table with two glass shelves. This amazing

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Charles Hollis Jones Plexiglass and Brass Italian Square Cocktail Table, 1970s

H 17.52 in W 27.56 in D 27.56 in

A coffee table, France 80s.

Located in VILLERS-SUR-MER, FR

This coffee table is truly original, thanks to its material and the zebra stripes all over the

Category

Vintage 1980s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

A coffee table, France 80s.

H 14.57 in W 34.65 in D 47.25 in

Plexiglass, Glass and Brass Dining Table in the Style of Charles Hollis Jones

By Charles Hollis Jones

Located in San Francisco, CA

This 1970's plexiglass, glass and brass coffee table in the style of Charles Hollis Jones has a

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Plexiglass, Glass and Brass Dining Table in the Style of Charles Hollis Jones

H 29.75 in W 69.69 in D 35.5 in

Steve Mc Queen Coffee Table

Located in Paris, FR

Coffee Table Steve Mc Queen with structure in plexiglass which frames and protects a unique oil

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass, Paint, Paper

Steve Mc Queen Coffee Table

H 20.48 in W 35.44 in D 27.56 in

Neoclassical Revival Style Coffee Table

Located in Sheffield, MA

Making a major statement in size and detailing, this coffee table is composed of a glass top with

Category

20th Century Unknown Baroque Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Silver, Silver Leaf

Neoclassical Revival Style Coffee Table

H 18 in W 55 in D 55 in

Superego Contemporary Modern Italian Plexiglass and Brass Side Table

By Studio Superego

Located in Madrid, ES

Side tables designed and produced by Studio Superego. Made of plexiglass of ten centimeters

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Agate, Brass

Superego Contemporary Modern Italian Plexiglass and Brass Side Table

H 16.15 in W 26.78 in D 21.26 in

Large transparent coffee table, Italy 1970

Located in Roma, RM

Large transparent coffee table, made of glass and methacrylate, Italy 1970 Product details

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

Large transparent coffee table, Italy 1970

H 16.93 in W 39.38 in D 39.38 in

70s rectangular glass and plexiglass coffee table

By Non-Standard Furniture and Lighting

Located in Milano, IT

Tavolino vintage da salotto con struttura in plexiglass e ottone e doppio piano in vetro.

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Plexiglass

70s rectangular glass and plexiglass coffee table

H 16.93 in W 55.32 in D 39.57 in

Small lucite coffee table or side table, 1970s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Lovely lucite and glass top coffee table or side table with brass screws. Very good condition

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Small lucite coffee table or side table, 1970s

H 13.78 in W 19.69 in D 19.69 in

Coffee Table Molecula Model by Marco Pettinari

By Marco Pettinari

Located in Milan, Italy

Coffee table Molecula designed by Marco Pettinari. This sculpture/coffee table made from a

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Plexiglass

Coffee Table Molecula Model by Marco Pettinari

H 16.93 in W 13.78 in D 13 in

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Plexi Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

An assortment of plexi coffee tables is available at 1stDibs. The range of distinct plexi coffee tables — often made from plastic, plexiglass and metal — can elevate any home. There are 106 antique and vintage plexi coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 79 modern editions to choose from as well. There are all kinds of plexi coffee tables available, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. Plexi coffee tables are generally popular furniture pieces, but Modern, Mid-Century Modern and Hollywood Regency styles are often sought at 1stDibs. Studio Superego, Yves Klein and Minotti each produced beautiful plexi coffee tables that are worth considering.

How Much are Plexi Coffee Tables?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $5,550, while they’re typically $381 on the low end and $175,000 highest priced.

Materials: Plastic Furniture

Arguably the world’s most ubiquitous man-made material, plastic has impacted nearly every industry. In contemporary spaces, new and vintage plastic furniture is quite popular and its use pairs well with a range of design styles.

From the Italian lighting artisans at Fontana Arte to venturesome Scandinavian modernists such as Verner Panton, who created groundbreaking interiors as much as he did seating — see his revolutionary Panton chair — to contemporary multidisciplinary artists like Faye Toogood, furniture designers have been pushing the boundaries of plastic forever.

When The Graduate's Mr. McGuire proclaimed, “There’s a great future in plastics,” it was more than a laugh line. The iconic quote is an allusion both to society’s reliance on and its love affair with plastic. Before the material became an integral part of our lives — used in everything from clothing to storage to beauty and beyond — people relied on earthly elements for manufacturing, a process as time-consuming as it was costly.

Soon after American inventor John Wesley Hyatt created celluloid, which could mimic luxury products like tortoiseshell and ivory, production hit fever pitch, and the floodgates opened for others to explore plastic’s full potential. The material altered the history of design — mid-century modern legends Charles and Ray Eames, Joe Colombo and Eero Saarinen regularly experimented with plastics in the development of tables and chairs, and today plastic furnishings and decorative objects are seen as often indoors as they are outside.

Find vintage plastic lounge chairs, outdoor furniture, lighting and more on 1stDibs.

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 Plexi 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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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 standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is a tray top coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
When did coffee tables become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.
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.
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.
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.

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