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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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 console table?

The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.

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

The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.

Is there a difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?

"Coffee table" and "cocktail table" are used interchangeably; cocktail table is the more traditional term, often applied to lower, more formal designs.

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 big should a coffee table be for a sectional?

How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.

How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?

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

How do you stack books on a coffee table?

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

How do you date a Lane coffee table?

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

What is 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 best height for a coffee table?

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

What is the best coffee table for a sectional?

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

What is 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.

Caned Coffee Table

1950s Cane Furniture

Hans Wegner By Andreas Tuck

Hans J Wegner At10

At10 Coffee

Cane Glasses

1960s Rattan Furniture Table

Danish Modern Cane

Square Table Caning

Peak Cane Coffe Table R40, Solid Oak Wood

$768Sale Price / item|20% Off

Peak Cane Coffe Table R40, Solid Oak Wood

Located in Ankara, TR

The Peak Cane coffee table is the perfect companion for enjoying your coffee.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Turkish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Cane, Wood, Oak

By Lane Furniture

Located in Baltimore, MD

The table rests on stylish sturdy legs. The beautiful coffee table maintains its well preserved, original walnut finish.

Category

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

Materials

Cane, Walnut

Large Cane Wrapped Coffee Table Attributed to Karl Springer

$6,500

$2,000

$3,400

Mid-Century Walnut Coffee Table with Travertine Inset and Cane Shelf by Heritage

By Heritage Furniture

Located in Chicago, IL

Beautiful large rectangular coffee table circa 1950s by Heritage. Walnut with a travertine inset at the top and partially caned lower shelf.

Category

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

Materials

Travertine

Borge Mogensen Danish Modern Cane and Oak Coffee Table

$8,995

Borge Mogensen Danish Modern Cane and Oak Coffee Table

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Rare Borge Mogensen Wicker or Cane CoffeeTable. Produced by Fredericia. Solid oak legs. Original cane. Labeled.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan, Oak

$1,750

1960s Mid-Century Walnut Coffee Table with Four Drawers & Cane Shelf

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Combining exceptional functionality with iconic 1960s craftsmanship, this mid-century modern coffee table is crafted in warm, rich walnut frame with striking geometric top wood grain...

Category

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

Materials

Wicker, Walnut

Mid-Century Coffee Table in Rattan, Cane and Glass, Italy 1970s

$1,361Sale Price|20% Off

$453Sale Price|20% Off

Square Coffee Table in 24-Karat Gold Metal Italian Design 1970 Bamboo Cane

By Zevi & C.

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Square coffee table in 24-karat gold metal Italian design 1970 bamboo cane.

Category

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

Materials

Gold Plate

Very Fine English Style Wood And Cane Cocktail Table

$2,895

Very Fine English Style Wood And Cane Cocktail Table

Located in Bridgeport, CT

A large and very well made cocktail table with cane top, scrolled stretchers with crown carvings and chip carved apron and topped with a .5" thick glass top. Dimensions: 67" W x 28....

Category

20th Century Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cane, Glass, Wood

Danish Modern Coffee Table by R. Wengler in Rattan Cane and Matt Glass, 1940s

$6,126

Danish Modern Coffee Table by R. Wengler in Rattan Cane and Matt Glass, 1940s

By Robert Wengler

Located in Odense, DK

1940s Danish coffee table attributed to cabinetmaker R. Wengler, Copenhagen.

Category

Vintage 1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan, Glass

Mid-Century Provincial Mahogany with Cane and Glass Top Cocktail Table

$1,121Sale Price|25% Off

Mid-Century Provincial Mahogany with Cane and Glass Top Cocktail Table

Located in Germantown, MD

A Mid 20th Century French Provincial Mahogany with Cane and Glass Top Cocktail Table. Great for smaller rooms. Measures 38" in with, 16.5" in depth and stands 16.5" tall.

Category

Mid-20th Century American French Provincial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cane, Glass, Mahogany

Recent Sales

Hans Wegner Teak and Cane Coffee Table

Unavailable

H 20 in W 63.5 in D 20 in

Hans Wegner Teak and Cane Coffee Table

By Hans J. Wegner

Located in Phoenix, AZ

1950s Hans Wegner teak and cane coffee table. All original very good to excellent condition.

Category

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

Materials

Cane, Teak

Unavailable

Very chic pencil reed wrapped cocktail table with brass accents.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Reed

H 18.5 in Dm 48 in

Split Reed Coffee Table

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Striking split reed round coffee / cocktail table with beveled glass top, circa 1980s. Overall dimensions: 18.5" height x 48" diameter (glass top) Base is 40" diameter.

Category

Vintage 1980s American Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Cane, Rattan, Reed, Glass

Midcentury Walnut and Cane Coffee Table by Jens Risom

Sold

H 17.5 in W 42 in D 27 in

Midcentury Walnut and Cane Coffee Table by Jens Risom

By Jens Risom

Located in Las Vegas, NV

Beautiful hexagonal walnut and cane coffee table by Jens Risom. Simple midcentury design at its finest.

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cane, Walnut

Vintage mid century American pencil-reed cane coffee table

Sold

H 15.95 in Dm 36.03 in

Vintage mid century American pencil-reed cane coffee table

Located in Hastings, GB

An attractive mid century American pencil-reed / cane coffee table in pale blonde. Manufactured in the 1970s, and in good vintage condition.

Category

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

Materials

Cane

Ficks & Reed Mid-Century Bamboo and Cane Coffee Table

Sold

H 18 in W 42 in D 20 in

Ficks & Reed Mid-Century Bamboo and Cane Coffee Table

By Ficks Reed

Located in Bellport, NY

A Ficks & Reed bamboo and cane coffee table. We also have two matching side tables and a pair of high back armchairs all the same match and period.

Category

20th Century American British Colonial Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Bamboo, Cane

Vintage Danish Teak and Cane Coffee Table, 1960s

Sold

H 21.86 in W 53.55 in D 29.93 in

Vintage Danish Teak and Cane Coffee Table, 1960s

Located in Asaa, DK

Vintage Danish teak and cane coffee table 1960s Large Scandinavian Modern coffee table with cane shelf.

Category

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

Materials

Cane, Teak

James Phillip Co. Inc. Freeform Wood/ Cane Coffee Table with Glass Insert

Sold

H 15 in W 32.75 in D 60.25 in

James Phillip Co. Inc. Freeform Wood/ Cane Coffee Table with Glass Insert

By James Philip Co.

Located in New York, NY

James Phillip Co. Inc. Freeform Wood/ Cane Coffee Table with Glass Insert. Overall great vintage condition with age appropriate wear.

Category

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

Materials

Cane, Glass, Wood

Faux Bamboo, Caned, Two-Tiered Coffee Table

Sold

H 18 in W 48 in D 18 in

Faux Bamboo, Caned, Two-Tiered Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Two-Tiered Caned Coffee Table Featuring Faux-Bamboo Legs

Category

20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Mid Century Teak & Cane Coffee Table

Sold

H 19 in Dm 41.25 in

Mid Century Teak & Cane Coffee Table

Located in Puslinch, ON

Condition: Great Vintage Condition Dimensions: 41.25” Dia x 19” H Description: A gorgeous vintage teak coffee table with a cane lower shelf. In great vintage condition.

Category

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

Materials

Cane, Teak

Sold

H 16.5 in W 58.38 in D 20.38 in

Mid-Century Modern Trioh Teak and Cane Coffee Table

By Trioh

Located in Chattanooga, TN

Refinished Mid-Century Modern Danish teak coffee table by Trioh Møbler. Two tier design with caned shelf at bottom.

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Cane, Teak

$1,443

H 19.69 in W 50.4 in D 22.05 in

Trioh Couchtisch Teak Vintage 60er Dänemark Rattan Original

By Trioh

Located in Berlin, DE

Wir bieten einen wunderschönen Midcentury Couchtisch vom dänischen Qualitätshersteller Trioh aus den 1960er Jahren zum Verkauf an. Das Stück überzeugt durch die typisch skandinavisch...

Category

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

Materials

Rattan, Teak

$1,242

H 20.48 in W 21.26 in D 70.08 in

Coffee Table Made In Teak, Danish Design From 1960s

Located in Lejre, DK

The coffee table, a Danish design from the 1960s, showcases the timeless elegance of teak wood. With its sleek lines and understated sophistication, it epitomizes the mid-century mod...

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Danish Teak Coffee Table by Hans J. Wegner, Mid-Century Modern

$4,700

$798Sale Price|20% Off

H 17.72 in W 36.42 in D 20.87 in

Sweden Teak Coffee Table by Albert Larsson for Alberts Tibro, 1963

By Albert Larsson

Located in Labrit, Landes

Teak coffee table produced in Sweden in the 1960s. By Albert Larsson for Alberts Tibro. Simple and sleek, this table will fit perfectly in a small living room. Beech wood base and m...

Category

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

Materials

Beech, Teak

$703

H 21.66 in W 41.34 in D 21.26 in

1960s Teak Extendable Coffee Table, Denmark

Located in Praha, CZ

- Item has been carefully refurbished - can be extended 183 cm

Category

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

Materials

Teak

Large Heavy Tapered Legs Danish Modern Teak Table

$6,200

H 29 in W 71 in D 41 in

Large Heavy Tapered Legs Danish Modern Teak Table

By Hans J. Wegner

Located in Rockaway, NJ

Very nicely solid built, mint condition, Danish Mid-Century Modern teak refectory table with 2 x 23" leaves.

Category

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

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LU Louis Sconce AS

$1,550 / item

H 10 in W 7 in D 7.875 in

LU Louis Sconce AS

By Lumfardo Luminaires

Located in Inglewood, CA

Handsome LU Louis sconce AS. An all brass wall sconce in an aged silver finish with patterned perforations by Lumfardo Luminaires. Made contemporary in the US. Multiples available fo...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights a...

Materials

Brass, Nickel

H 23.5 in W 19.75 in D 15.75 in

Set of Two Shagreen Nightstands by R&Y Augousti

By R & Y Augousti

Located in New York, NY

The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Night Stands

Materials

Shagreen Stingray

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Caned Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal caned coffee table for your home. Frequently made of natural fiber, cane and wood, every caned coffee table was constructed with great care. Find 248 options for an antique or vintage caned coffee table now, or shop our selection of 6 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. There are many kinds of the caned coffee table you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. A caned coffee table made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Scandinavian Modern — is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made caned coffee table over the years, but those crafted by Hans J. Wegner, Hvidt & Mølgaard and Andreas Tuck are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Caned Coffee Table?

The average selling price for a caned coffee table at 1stDibs is $2,483, while they’re typically $400 on the low end and $18,000 for the highest priced.

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 Caned Coffee Table

Can a coffee table be too low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 console table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a coffee table and a console table is in the design. A coffee table is a low table that comes in many shapes, such as surfaces that are rectangles, squares, ovals or circles. Console tables are taller and usually have elongated shapes, such as ovals, rectangles or semicircles. Placement is another differentiator between the two types of tables. Coffee tables usually go in front of sofas and loveseats, while console tables may be placed behind a sofa or loveseat or along a wall. Find a large collection of coffee tables and console tables on 1stDibs.
What is the difference between a side table and a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between a side table and a coffee table is mainly in the size and shape. Coffee tables usually feature larger tops but shorter legs. People typically place them in front of a sofa or a loveseat to rest books, drinks, remote controls and other items. Side tables also store items, but they are usually positioned beside an accent chair or at the ends of a sofa or loveseat. Shop a diverse assortment of side tables and coffee tables on 1stDibs.
Is there a difference between a coffee table and a cocktail table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
"Coffee table" and "cocktail table" are used interchangeably; cocktail table is the more traditional term, often applied to lower, more formal designs.
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 big should a coffee table be for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
How big a coffee table for a sectional should be depends on the dimensions of the sectional. For a balanced look, a coffee table should be roughly two-thirds of the length of the sofa portion of a sofa and chaise sectional. If you have an L-shaped sofa, the coffee table should be around two-thirds of the length of each arm. Find a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do I authenticate my Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
To authenticate your Noguchi coffee table, there are three different marks to look for. Isamu Noguchi’s signature will be on the edge of the table and on a medallion under the base. Even under the medallion, you will find Noguchi’s initials. Shop a collection of properly vetted Noguchi pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do you stack books on a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To stack books on a coffee table, place the largest one on the bottom with the spine facing the focal piece of furniture, usually the sofa. Then, add the next largest, lining up the inner edges so that the spines create a stepped effect. Continue adding books to complete the stack and top it off with a decorative object if you wish. Shop a variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
How do you date a Lane coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
To date a Lane coffee table, look for the serial number on the underside of the piece. On most Lane coffee tables, reading the number from right to left will tell you the date that the table was manufactured. For example, a serial number that says 852140 would have been produced on April 12, 1958. Founded in Virginia in the early 20th century, Lane is largely known for its cedar chests and innovative mid-century modern designs. Find a variety of Lane coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is 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 best height for a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
The best height for a coffee table is around 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat height of the adjacent sofa. Most sofas feature seat heights of around 17 or 18 inches. As a result, the most common height for coffee tables is 15 to 17 inches. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of coffee tables.
What is the best coffee table for a sectional?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
The best coffee table for a sectional can be a round coffee table, particularly with respect to U-shaped sectionals. The circular design creates a sense of balance in small spaces and renders it easy for guests to move to and fro, especially when surrounded by chairs. Find a collection of antique and vintage coffee tables on 1stDibs today.
What is 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.

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