Q: 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.

Question 1

Why is it called a coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Is an ottoman a coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

What size should a coffee table be?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

Who invented the coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

What is a tray top coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

How much does a coffee table cost?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 10

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

How do you style an oval coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a coffee table should generally be lower than a couch. However, the top of the table should only be slightly lower than the couch to maintain a balanced look. A good rule of thumb is to choose a table no more than one inch shorter than your sofa's seat height. Explore a large collection of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Question 14

How big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

What is the average height of a coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 17

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

What is a tall coffee table called?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 19

Why are modern coffee tables so low?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

Are glass coffee tables durable?

Accepted Answer

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.

Stag Coffee Table

2010s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Stag Coffee Table by Krzywda

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

1970s Belgian Brass Coffee table in the Shape of a Resting Stag

Early 20th Century Chinese Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Chinese Lacquered and Hand Painted Gilt Coffee Table

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

Scarab Coffee Table by François Melin, France, circa 1970

Late 20th Century Thai Animal Sculptures

Bronze Statue Pair of Deer, Stags Running

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Large Mid-Century Modern Brass Stag Head on Marble Base

Mid-20th Century North American Figurative Sculptures

Paul Manship (after) Bronze Sculpture of Actaeon

People Also Browsed

2010s French Modern Chairs

Mawu Sculpted Oak Chair by Laura Gonzalez

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

JENNY Large Wall Light or Sconce in Enamel & Brass by Blueprint Lighting

2010s French Other Wall Mirrors

Tresse Mirror in Ceramic Designed by Laura Gonzalez

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Lätt 1.0 Contemporary Marble Console by RDLC

21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Giraffe dining Chair in Solid Brazilian Wood by Juliana Vasconcellos

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

Great Palmette Shallow Flush Ceiling Mount, in the Style of Barovier, Murano

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Sofas

1950's Style Curved Velvet Sofa in Custom Velvet Colors

2010s American Flush Mount

Sasco Semi-Flush Mount Brass Light Fixture, Custom Finishes

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

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

21st Century and Contemporary Swedish Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights an...

Hans-Agne Jakobsson 'Mini-Tratten' Verdigris Patinated Outdoor Sconce

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Benches

21st Century Contemporary Minimal White Velvet Bench With Black Lacquered Base

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Center Tables

Contemporary Round Center Coffee Table in Wood Marquetry Black & White

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Center Tables

21st Century Contemporary Coffee Center Round Table Abstract Wood Marquetry

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Sofas

Arflex Marenco Sofa in Fabric Heidi and Candy by Mario Marenco

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

Organic Modern Small Table Lamp Natural Wood Handmade Fluted Shade

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Organic Modern Center Tables

Contemporary Minimal Round Coffee Center Table in Travertine Stone Natural Pores

Recent Sales

20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Leaping Stag Coffee Table

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

Vintage Teak Coffee Table by John & Sylvia Reid for Stag

Vintage 1970s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Francois Melin Stag Beetle Table, 1970

Antique 19th Century Austrian Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

antique stag trophy antler table, austria, circa 1860

Late 20th Century American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Iron Coffee Table In The Manner Of Diego Giacometti

Antique Late 19th Century French French Provincial Coffee and Cocktail T...

19th Century French Carved Oval Coffee Table Black Forest Lodge Animal Oak

Mid-20th Century German Rustic Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Vintage Antler Cocktail Table

21st Century and Contemporary American Chinoiserie Side Tables

Contemporary Chinoiserie Side Table with Monkey and Stag Motifs on Iron Base

Vintage 1920s English Sheffield and Silverplate

Antique Canteen x 12 Silver Plated Cutlery Set Kings Pattern Early 20th Century

Late 20th Century French Futurist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Vintage Francois Melin Stag Style Iron and Glass Wing Fly Coffee Table

Vintage 1960s German Black Forest Sofa Tables

Vintage Antler Marquetry Cocktail Table

20th Century English Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Mid 20th Century Horn Coffee table

Early 20th Century Moroccan Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Extra Large Vintage Moroccan Tray Table

Finding the Right tables for You

Read More

The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home

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

Is Lionel Jadot the Willy Wonka of Upcycled Belgian Design?