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.

Who invented the coffee table?

No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Why is it called a coffee table?

Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.

Are end tables taller than coffee tables?

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

What is the difference between a 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.

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.

What is the best height for a coffee table?

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

Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?

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.

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.

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 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.

Unique Coffee Tables

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Unique coffee table

H 20.08 in W 49.22 in D 29.53 in

Unique Coffee Table in Lapis by Studio Glustin

By Glustin Creation

Located in Saint-Ouen (PARIS), FR

Unique coffee table in lapis lazuli by Studio Glustin. France, 2022.

Category

2010s French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Lapis Lazuli

Unique Coffee Table in Lapis by Studio Glustin

H 14.57 in W 66.93 in D 37.8 in

Unique Coffee Table by Erik Glemme

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A unique coffee table with a sculptural mahogany base and rectangular fossilized marble top

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Unique Coffee Table by Erik Glemme

H 17.5 in W 48 in D 19.6 in

Unique Coffee Table Made of a Thick Freeform Wood Top Supported by Brass Arms

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

This very nice and unique coffee table is made of a thick freeform wooden top supported by 2 gilt

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Unique Coffee Table Made of a Thick Freeform Wood Top Supported by Brass Arms

H 17.13 in W 52.76 in D 22.84 in

Unique Coffee Table with a Handcrafted Metal Cricket Sculpture Base

Located in Vlimmeren, BE

handcrafted metal cricket sculpture is the base of this unique coffee table with a square smoked glass top

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Modern Side Tables

Materials

Metal

Unique Coffee Table with a Handcrafted Metal Cricket Sculpture Base

H 12.6 in W 31.11 in D 31.11 in

Travertine Coffee Table by Studio Glustin

By Glustin Creation

Located in Saint-Ouen (PARIS), FR

Unique coffee table in travertine stone worked in marquetry and brass. Creation by Studio Glustin

Category

2010s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Travertine, Brass

Travertine Coffee Table by Studio Glustin

H 14.97 in Dm 59.06 in

Tessellated Glass-Topped Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This unique coffee table features a tessellated base and glass top. Please confirm item location

Category

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

Materials

Glass

Tessellated Glass-Topped Coffee Table

H 16.25 in W 54.25 in D 28 in

Acrylic designer Coffee / sofa Table Unique Design in Palm Shape with glass top

Located in Berlin, DE

Unique coffee table with volute-shaped palm tree design in Acrylic Round glass plate with faceted

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Acrylic

Acrylic designer Coffee / sofa Table Unique Design in Palm Shape with glass top

H 18.12 in Dm 51.19 in

Philip and Kelvin Laverne Coffee Table

By Philip and Kelvin LaVerne

Located in New York, NY

An Oval form etched bronze Coffee table designed by Philip and Kelvin Laverne. This unique coffee

Category

Vintage 1970s American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bronze

Philip and Kelvin Laverne Coffee Table

H 17 in W 66 in D 21 in

space age table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

unique coffee table with a base in cast aluminium and a glass top from the 1970's

Category

Vintage 1970s Space Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

space age table

H 40 in Dm 66 in

Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table

Located in Austin, TX

Italian coffee table from Verona. This unique coffee table features two thick glass slabs connected

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table

H 15 in W 55 in D 39.37 in

Unique Coffee Table in Marble by Studio Glustin

Located in Saint-Ouen (PARIS), FR

Wonderful coffee table made of sculpted and patinated bronze, top in Carrara marble. Unique

Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Carrara Marble, Bronze

Unique Coffee Table in Marble by Studio Glustin

H 12.6 in W 68.9 in D 40.95 in

Marble and Walnut Coffee Table in the Style of Adrian Pearsall

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A striking and unique coffee table combining rich woodgrain with different shades of marble, styled

Category

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

Materials

Marble

Marble and Walnut Coffee Table in the Style of Adrian Pearsall

H 15 in W 59.5 in D 20 in

20th Century Coffee Table Converted From An Ammunition Case

Located in Lučenec, SK

This is a unique coffe table, which was converted from an ammunition case. It has iron legs. The

Category

Vintage 1940s Czech Industrial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

20th Century Coffee Table Converted From An Ammunition Case

H 22.84 in W 40.56 in D 15.75 in

Splendid Italian Coffee Table, Italy 1940s

By Guglielmo Ulrich

Located in Milan, IT

Apartment. Milan, Italy The coffee table has brass feet and a brass inner frame on the top. A quiet unique

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Brass

Splendid Italian Coffee Table, Italy 1940s

H 17.72 in W 33.47 in D 19.69 in

Vintage Lucite Base Coffee Table with Glass Top

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

This unique coffee table features an modern Lucite base where three curved hourglass shaped legs

Category

Late 20th Century American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Lucite

Vintage Lucite Base Coffee Table with Glass Top

H 16 in Dm 35 in

Wooden Coffee Table by František Jirák, 1960s

By Frantisek Jirak

Located in Żory, PL

A unique coffee table, a combination of a wooden structure and glass. It was designed by František

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Wooden Coffee Table by František Jirák, 1960s

H 25.6 in W 35.44 in D 20.48 in

Brutalist Coffee Table by Pia Manu for Amphora, 1960s

By Pia Manu

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

base with a handmade slate and tiled top. Beautiful unique coffee table. 1960s, Belgium Very

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Slate, Chrome

Brutalist Coffee Table by Pia Manu for Amphora, 1960s

H 14.57 in W 59.06 in D 25.99 in

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Chrome

By Janne Kyttanen

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

chrome mesh. The result is a compelling metamorphosis; the impossible becomes reality. Coffee table

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Chrome

H 15.75 in W 19.69 in D 47.25 in

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Copper

By Janne Kyttanen

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

chrome mesh. The result is a compelling metamorphosis; the impossible becomes reality. Coffee table

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Copper

H 15.75 in W 19.69 in D 47.25 in

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Chrome

By Janne Kyttanen

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

chrome mesh. The result is a compelling metamorphosis; the impossible becomes reality. Coffee table

Category

21st Century and Contemporary European Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Chrome

H 15.75 in W 19.69 in D 47.25 in

Postmodern Sculptural Coffee Table by Maurizio Salvato for Saporiti

By Saporiti

Located in TOLLEBEEK, NL

Free form unique coffee table designed by Maurizio Salvato in 1980’s and produced by Saporiti

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Postmodern Sculptural Coffee Table by Maurizio Salvato for Saporiti

Free Shipping

H 14.18 in W 61.03 in D 68.12 in

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Copper

By Janne Kyttanen

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Metsidian represents a moment in time, an eruption that melds two divergent materials together. The Prehistoric evolves into the futuristic as the organic volcanic obsidian form tran...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Copper

"Metsidian" Unique Coffee Table/Cocktail Table in Obsidian and Copper

H 15.75 in W 19.69 in D 47.25 in

Paul Evans Glass Coffee Table

By Paul Evans

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This unique coffee table by Paul Evans features contrasting textures and colors in its geometric

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Paul Evans Glass Coffee Table

H 17 in W 60 in D 23 in

Midcentury Designer Wood and Glass Coffee Table

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This incredibly unique coffee table features a wood base with a thick glass top. Perfect for any

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Midcentury Designer Wood and Glass Coffee Table

H 15 in W 54 in D 22 in

Gio Ponti, Unique Coffee Table, Oak, Glass, Italy, c. 1937

By Gio Ponti

Located in High Point, NC

A unique, oak and glass coffee table designed by Gio Ponti and possibly executed by Giordano Chiesa

Category

Vintage 1930s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Oak

Gio Ponti, Unique Coffee Table, Oak, Glass, Italy, c. 1937

H 19.75 in Dm 37.75 in

Swedish Modern Unique Coffee Table by Bo Fjaestad, Sweden, 1950s

By Carl Malmsten

Located in Hillringsberg, SE

Wonderful kidney shaped coffee table made in pine. This one is a unique piece. Vintage

Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Swedish Modern Unique Coffee Table by Bo Fjaestad, Sweden, 1950s

H 23.63 in W 31.5 in D 19.69 in

Unique Coffee Table in Marble and Teak Wood - Belgian creation

Located in Brussels , BE

This simple coffee table is an impressive slab of white Carrera marble, which rests on four large

Category

20th Century Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Unique Coffee Table in Marble and Teak Wood - Belgian creation

H 13.78 in W 43.31 in D 32.68 in

Materia Coffee Table

By Disegnopiù

Located in Milan, IT

This extremely unique coffee table contains a bio-ethanol burner. Its design combines the essential

Category

2010s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Glass

Materia Coffee Table

H 16.15 in W 47.25 in D 29.93 in

Vintage Marble Pedestal with Griffin Detail

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This vintage tessellated stone/marble inlaid pedestal makes a unique coffee table base or display

Category

20th Century Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Vintage Marble Pedestal with Griffin Detail

H 17.25 in W 18 in D 18 in

Restored Wooden Coffee Table with Glass Top from Druzstvo, 1960s

Located in Żory, PL

A unique coffee table, a combination of a wooden structure and glass. It was produced by

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Restored Wooden Coffee Table with Glass Top from Druzstvo, 1960s

H 24.81 in W 31.5 in D 22.84 in

Coffee table, Memphis style

By Memphis Group

Located in Milano, Lombardia

an extremely unique coffee table. Designed and produced in Italy in the 1980s, following the

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Coffee table, Memphis style

H 13.39 in Dm 23.63 in

Vintage Hidden Bar Coffee by Fedam, 1980s

By Fedam

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

Unique coffee table that, with a twist of the knob, reveals a hidden bar compartment. The coffee

Category

Vintage 1980s Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Granite

Vintage Hidden Bar Coffee by Fedam, 1980s

H 18.51 in W 51.19 in D 31.5 in

Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Set

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This unique coffee table set includes one wide coffee table and two smaller side tables. A unique

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Wood

Mid-Century Modern Coffee Table Set

H 16 in W 52 in D 28 in

Vintage Hidden Bar Coffee by Fedam, 1980s

By Fedam

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

Unique coffee table that, with a twist of the knob, reveals a hidden bar compartment. The coffee

Category

Vintage 1980s Belgian Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Granite, Brass

Vintage Hidden Bar Coffee by Fedam, 1980s

H 18.51 in W 51.19 in D 31.5 in

French Louis XVI Painted Wood & Marble Top Coffee Table, late 19th Century

Located in Labrit, Landes

French Marble and wood coffee table. The wood part of this table is made of a 19th century bench

Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

French Louis XVI Painted Wood & Marble Top Coffee Table, late 19th Century

H 18.12 in W 34.45 in D 16.15 in

1980's Post Modern Atomic Chrome Coffee Table Base

By Milo Baughman, Design Institute America

Located in San Diego, CA

This very cool and unique coffee table in chrome was designed by Milo Baughman, for the Design

Category

20th Century American Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Chrome

1980's Post Modern Atomic Chrome Coffee Table Base

H 16.5 in Dm 33 in

Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch

By Aranda Lasch

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

delicately above it. This imbalance gives the table its unique sense of flotation. Coffee table, cocktail

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

$Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch$

Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch

H 12.21 in W 48.04 in D 48.04 in

Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch

By Aranda Lasch

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

delicately above it. This imbalance gives the table its unique sense of flotation. Coffee table, cocktail

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

$Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch$

Scallop Unique Coffee Table Powder-Coated White Steel by Aranda\Lasch

H 12.21 in W 48.04 in D 48.04 in

Large Mid Century Danish Modern Teak and slate square Coffee Table

By Drylund

Located in BROOKLYN, NY

Large Mid century Danish modern teak 42” square light teak coffee table with slate top - with large

Category

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

Materials

Slate

Large Mid Century Danish Modern Teak and slate square Coffee Table

H 16 in W 42 in D 42 in

Unique & Custom Coffee Table w/ a 19th C. Spanish Cheese Making Natural Wood Top

Located in Atlanta, GA

A custom coffee table created from a late 19th century Spanish cheese drying trough. This unique

Category

Antique 19th Century Spanish Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Unique & Custom Coffee Table w/ a 19th C. Spanish Cheese Making Natural Wood Top

H 20.75 in W 39 in D 31.5 in

Rare Steel and Iron Coffee Table with Lava Stone Top, circa 1940

Located in Marcq-en-Barœul, Hauts-de-France

This unique coffee table is made of an interesting iron base with a cross stretcher attached to the

Category

Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Lava, Steel, Iron

Rare Steel and Iron Coffee Table with Lava Stone Top, circa 1940

H 14.18 in W 18.12 in D 41.74 in

Boomerang Leg Coffee Table by Mersman Furniture

By Mersman

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Amazing and unique coffee table from the talented craftsmen of Ohio's famous Mersman Furniture

Category

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

Materials

Wood, Walnut

Boomerang Leg Coffee Table by Mersman Furniture

H 23 in W 31 in D 31 in

Jean Claude Dresse Unique Coffee Table in Resin with Bone Mosaic Inlay

By Jean Claude Dresse

Located in Waalwijk, NL

made coffee table is a design by the hand of Belgian designer Jean Claude Dresse. Truly unique, as

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Steel

Jean Claude Dresse Unique Coffee Table in Resin with Bone Mosaic Inlay

H 16.74 in W 23.63 in D 23.63 in

Vintage Industrial Cart Coffee Table

Located in Sheffield, MA

coffee table.

Category

Early 20th Century American Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Vintage Industrial Cart Coffee Table

H 15 in W 53 in D 27.5 in

Vintage Industrial Cart Coffee Table

Located in Sheffield, MA

coffee table.

Category

Early 20th Century American Other Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Vintage Industrial Cart Coffee Table

H 15 in W 53 in D 27.5 in

Midcentury Cocktail Table in the Style of Karl Springer

Located in Brooklyn, NY

wrapped in chrome trim. This unique coffee table makes the perfect eye catching addition in any home

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Paint

Midcentury Cocktail Table in the Style of Karl Springer

H 16 in W 56 in D 36 in

Large brutalist forme libre coffee table gilt wrought iron 1970

Located in Paris, IDF

Rare and unique coffee table designed by a French anonymous designer in the 1970s. The three

Category

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

Materials

Iron, Gold Leaf

Large brutalist forme libre coffee table gilt wrought iron 1970

H 12.6 in W 68.51 in D 48.04 in

B&B Italia Fat-Fat Coffee Table

By Patricia Urquiola, B&B Italia

Located in Chicago, IL

. This unique coffee table balances aesthetics and utility, transforming any space into a chic, organized

Category

Early 2000s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

B&B Italia Fat-Fat Coffee Table

H 13.75 in W 32 in D 32 in

Midcentury Coffee Table in Oak and Glass, Czechoslovakia, 1960s

By Tatra Pravenec

Located in Zohor, SK

Unique coffee table with typical mid-century style. Produced in 1960s by Tatra Pravenec company

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Oak

Midcentury Coffee Table in Oak and Glass, Czechoslovakia, 1960s

H 27.17 in W 31.5 in D 19.69 in

S6 Coffee Table by Mascia Meccani

By Meccani Design

Located in Milan, IT

unique coffee table, part of the Saturno series, which is made of only non-reproducible pieces. The base

Category

2010s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

S6 Coffee Table by Mascia Meccani

H 15.75 in W 16.15 in D 15.75 in

Brutalist Coffee Table by Pia Manu, 1970s

By Pia Manu

Located in HEVERLEE, BE

aluminum top with a steel and aluminum base. Beautiful unique coffee table with a striking design

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Aluminum, Steel

Brutalist Coffee Table by Pia Manu, 1970s

H 12.6 in W 62.21 in D 30.32 in

Jean-Pierre Laporte Unique Coffee table - bar Papaye Prototype, 1969

By Jean-Pierre Laporte

Located in Paris, FR

LAPORTE Jean-Pierre (1944–) Coffee table / bar Papaye Prototype, unique piece, Thonet France maker

Category

Vintage 1960s French Space Age Tables

Materials

Fiberglass, Polyester

Jean-Pierre Laporte Unique Coffee table - bar Papaye Prototype, 1969

H 19.69 in Dm 39.38 in

Ceramic and Metal Coffee Table by Stil Keramos 60s

By Stil Keramos

Located in Padova, IT

Stunning and unique coffee table made by Stil Keramos, Padova Italy in 1960s. A decorated ceramic

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Ceramic and Metal Coffee Table by Stil Keramos 60s

H 13 in W 39.38 in D 19.69 in

Mid Century Coffee Table In Oak And Glass, Czechoslovakia 1960s

Located in Zohor, SK

Unique coffee table with typical mid-century style. Produced in 1960s by Tatra Pravenec company

Category

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

Materials

Glass, Oak

Mid Century Coffee Table In Oak And Glass, Czechoslovakia 1960s

H 27.17 in W 31.5 in D 19.69 in

Gorgeous Pia Manu Slate and Ceramic Mosaic Artwork Coffee Table, Belgium

By Pia Manu

Located in Voorburg, NL

composition composed of inlays of a beautiful variety of warm colors. Gorgeous unique coffee table, no other

Category

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

Materials

Slate, Steel, Chrome

Gorgeous Pia Manu Slate and Ceramic Mosaic Artwork Coffee Table, Belgium

H 14.57 in W 59.06 in D 25.99 in

French organic brutalist wabi sabi style coffee table 1950's

By José Zanine Caldas

Located in Valby, 84

Rare and possibly unique coffee table made by a very talented french craftsman in France in the

Category

Vintage 1950s French Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Hardwood

French organic brutalist wabi sabi style coffee table 1950's

H 21.66 in Dm 31.5 in

Rare Coffee Table by Denisco, Italy 1970

By Denisco

Located in Amsterdam, NL

A unique coffee table, manufactured by Denisco in Italy around 1970. It has a black lacuqered

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Rare Coffee Table by Denisco, Italy 1970

H 12.6 in W 51.19 in D 27.56 in

Studio Davico Coffee Table Stainless Steel Mirror Glass, Italy, Circa 1970

By Eugenio Davico, Studio Davico

Located in Vienna, AT

Unique coffee table by Eugenio Davico with the original pattern mirror glass top. Very cool and

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Space Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Studio Davico Coffee Table Stainless Steel Mirror Glass, Italy, Circa 1970

H 13.77 in W 51.8 in D 31.5 in

1970s Mid-Century Modern "Space Age" Chrome & Glass Coffee Table

Located in London, GB

This beautiful and unique coffee table was manufactured in the 70s. The shape of this coffee table

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

1970s Mid-Century Modern "Space Age" Chrome & Glass Coffee Table

H 13.39 in W 26.38 in D 26.38 in

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Unique Coffee Tables For Sale on 1stDibs

There is a range of unique coffee tables for sale on 1stDibs. The range of distinct unique coffee tables — often made from metal, wood and glass — can elevate any home. There are 215 antique and vintage unique coffee tables for sale at 1stDibs, while we also have 82 modern editions to choose from as well. Unique coffee tables have long been popular, with older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Mid-Century Modern, Modern and Art Deco unique coffee tables are consistently popular styles. Unique coffee tables have been a part of the life’s work for many furniture makers, but those produced by Jörg Pietschmann, Studio Superego and Philip and Kelvin LaVerne are consistently popular.

How Much are Unique Coffee Tables?

The average selling price for at 1stDibs is $3,975, while they’re typically $475 on the low end and $180,000 highest priced.

Finding the Right Tables for You

The right vintage, new or antique tables can help make any space in your home stand out.

Over the years, the variety of tables available to us, as well as our specific needs for said tables, has broadened. Today, with all manner of these must-have furnishings differing in shape, material and style, any dining room table can shine just as brightly as the guests who gather around it.

Remember, when shopping for a dining table, it must fit your dining area, and you need to account for space around the table too — think outside the box, as an oval dining table may work for tighter spaces. Alternatively, if you’ve got the room, a Regency-style dining table can elevate any formal occasion at mealtime.

Innovative furniture makers and designers have also redefined what a table can be. Whether it’s an unconventional Ping-Pong table, a brass side table to display your treasured collectibles or a Louis Vuitton steamer trunk to add an air of nostalgia to your loft, your table can say a lot about you.

The visionary work of French designer Xavier Lavergne, for example, includes tables that draw on the forms of celestial bodies as often as they do aquatic creatures or fossils. Elsewhere, Italian architect Gae Aulenti, who looked to Roman architecture in crafting her stately Jumbo coffee table, created clever glass-topped mobile coffee tables that move on bicycle tires or sculpted wood wheels for Fontana Arte.

Coffee and cocktail tables can serve as a room’s centerpiece with attention-grabbing details and colors. Glass varieties will keep your hardwood flooring and dazzling area rugs on display, while a marble or stone coffee table in a modern interior can showcase your prized art books and decorative objects. A unique vintage desk or writing table can bring sophistication and even a bit of spice to your work life.

No matter your desired form or function, a quality table for your living space is a sound investment. On 1stDibs, browse a collection of vintage, new and antique bedside tables, mid-century end tables and more .

Questions About Unique Coffee Tables

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.
Who invented the coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 12, 2024
No one knows for sure who invented the coffee table. The earliest examples of the occasional table can be traced back to Victorian-era Britain. At that time, makers like William Watt and Collinson and Lock were producing coffee tables in large quantities.

Notably, F. Stuart Foote, the designer behind the American Imperial Furniture Company, claimed to have invented the coffee table in the early 20th century. He stated that he did so by cutting down the legs of a dining table. However, it's unlikely that Foote is the actual inventor of the coffee table, as books describing coffee tables existed in the UK a decade before his birth in 1872.

Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
Are end tables taller than coffee tables?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
Yes, end tables are generally taller than coffee tables.

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

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

Find all kinds of antique and vintage tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a 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.
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.
What is the best height for a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.
Should a coffee table be lower than a couch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
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.
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.
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 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.

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