Why is it called a coffee table?

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

Can a coffee table be too low?

Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.

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.

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.

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 standard size of a coffee table?

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

What is a tray top coffee table?

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

When did coffee tables become popular?

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

How do you style an oval coffee table?

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

How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?

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

How much does a coffee table cost?

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

How do I size a coffee table to my sofa?

As a general rule, choose a coffee table roughly two-thirds the length of the sofa, with the top 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat cushions.

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.

Netherlands Coffee Table

Triangle Table

Dutch Furniture Design

Wooden Cocktail Tables

Netherlands Art Deco

Timber Table

The Netherlands

Category

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

Materials

Wood

$856

Louis van Teeffelen - Coffee Table - Reversible Top - The Netherlands - 1960s

By Louis Van Teeffelen

Located in Linkebeek, BE

Louis van Teeffelen Coffee Table with Reversible Top - The Netherlands - 1960s Coffee Table - 1960s Measures : 125.5cmx51.5cm H:40.5cm Materials : Wood Wear Consistent with age And ...

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Brutalist Design Black Stained Oak Coffee Table, Netherlands 1960's

$2,102Sale Price|20% Off

Brutalist Design Black Stained Oak Coffee Table, Netherlands 1960's

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Brutalist Dutch Design Black Stained Oak Coffee Table. Made in the Netherlands, 1960's / 70's period.

Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Coffee Table in Mahogany by 't Woonhuys, The Netherlands 1930s

$3,946

Coffee Table in Mahogany by 't Woonhuys, The Netherlands 1930s

By 't Woonhuys

Located in Hellouw, NL

A restrained silhouette combined with warm mahogany veneer gives this coffee table a quiet architectural presence. Produced by ’t Woonhuys, the piece reflects the Dutch interpretatio...

Category

Vintage 1930s Dutch Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mahogany

$1,005Sale Price|20% Off

Square Coffee Table with Removable Tray, Wood, Bent Legs, Netherlands

Located in Opole, PL

We present you a square coffee table with a removable tray. All is dated after the year 1945. The table top is supported on bent legs with protruding knees, which are covered with ...

Category

Late 20th Century Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Walnut Wood Coffee Table Triangles Pattern The Netherlands By Sordile

$9,151 / item

Walnut Wood Coffee Table Triangles Pattern The Netherlands By Sordile

By M.C. Escher

Located in DE MEERN, UT

The Tavolo in Metamorfosi is a coffee table which consists of a top of triangles with a specially processed glass plate on top.

Category

2010s Dutch Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ebony, Oak, Padouk, Walnut

$2,059

Modernist Dutch Art Deco Coffee Table With Coromandel Details, Netherlands 1930s

Located in Hellouw, NL

It is a very minimalistic table with only subtle details. Design This coffee- or sidetable has carved and gauched lines in the four legs.

Category

Vintage 1930s Dutch Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Art Deco Coffee Table in Maple Wood, Curved Lines, Netherlands, 1925

$971

Art Deco Coffee Table in Maple Wood, Curved Lines, Netherlands, 1925

By Hendrik Wouda

Located in Den Haag, NL

Very nice coffee table . Beautiful warm Honey color Maple wood . Art Deco smooth curved lines 1920/30 Good condition . Please don't hesitate to reach out for alternative shipping...

Category

Vintage 1920s Dutch Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Maple

Vintage Etched Metal Coffee Table From Netherlands, Circa 1970.

$4,500

Vintage Etched Metal Coffee Table From Netherlands, Circa 1970.

Located in Nashville, TN

Vintage Etched Metal Coffee Table From Netherlands, Circa 1970. Metal top with circular graphics.

Category

Vintage 1970s European Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

$1,599

Mid-Century Square Wooden Coffee Table by Derk Jan de Vries - The Netherlands

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Square Wooden Coffee Table by Derk Jan de Vries - The Netherlands 1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Coffee Table Nr. 3637 by A.R.Cordemeijer for Gispen, The Netherlands

$2,279

Coffee Table Nr. 3637 by A.R.Cordemeijer for Gispen, The Netherlands

By Gispen, André R. Cordemeyer

Located in Beerse, VAN

Rectangular coffee table, designed in the 1950s by A.R. Cordemeijer for the Dutch manufacturer Gispen. Influenced by functionalist and Bauhaus design principles, this table became a...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

$6,855 / item

Side Table Walnut, Square Brown The Netherlands 2019

By M.C. Escher

Located in DE MEERN, UT

The side table which consists of a top of triangles. If you look over the table on the short sides, you will see a braided pattern. The design is inspired by Escher's patterns. This ...

Category

2010s Dutch Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Ebony, Oak, Padouk, Walnut

Amsterdamse School Oak round Side Table, The Netherlands, ca. 1920

$2,570

Amsterdamse School Oak round Side Table, The Netherlands, ca. 1920

Located in Meulebeke, BE

The Netherlands / 1920 / Side Table / oak / Amsterdamse School / Art Deco A sculptural gem from the early 20th century, this oak side table embodies the expressive spirit of the Ams...

Category

Early 20th Century Dutch Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Artifort Coffee Table

$788 / item

$1,995

$1,086

535 “Mug” table by Wim Rietveld for Gispen, 1950s The Netherlands.

By Gispen, Wim Rietveld

Located in Landgraaf, NL

535 “Mug” table by Wim Rietveld for Gispen, 1950s The Netherlands. The Gispen 535, better known by collectors as the “Mug” (Mosquito) table due to the characteristic shape of its sle...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

$794

"Bovenkamp" Teak Coffee Table, 1960s

By Bovenkamp

Located in Delft, NL

"Bovenkamp" teak coffee table, 1960s Coffee table made by Bovenkamp, Netherlands The table is made from teak and marked on the bottom The measurements are 50 cm high, 100 cm...

Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

1990s Dutch Hollywood Regency Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Glass, Smoked Glass, Oak

Unavailable

H 18.12 in W 24.81 in D 20.48 in

Psychedelic Coffee Table

Located in AMSTERDAM, NL

Transported from another era, the Psychedelic coffee table emerges as a captivating centerpiece in your living room. Its eccentric design and vibrant colors will infuse your days wit...

Category

2010s Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Epoxy Resin, Acrylic, Wood, Paper

Ahadi Coffee Table

Unavailable

H 15.75 in W 47.25 in D 23.63 in

Ahadi Coffee Table

By Albert Potgieter

Located in ROTTERDAM, NL

The Ahadi Coffee table is a sculptural brutalist piece. Inspired by nature, it is designed to resemble the strong, bold, strength of a Mountain. The Ahadi pieces are all functional a...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Dutch Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Sandcastles coffee table

Unavailable

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 22.45 in W 46.86 in D 32.29 in

Vintage walnut ‘guitar pick’ coffee table

Located in Heerhugowaard, NL

Danish design triangular coffee table from Denmark, 1950s. This table is veneered in mirrored walnut on the top and has solid walnut edges and legs. We have unfortunately been unab...

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Brutalist Paul Kingma Coffee Table, 1990

Unavailable

H 15.36 in Dm 45.28 in

Brutalist Paul Kingma Coffee Table, 1990

By Paul Kingma

Located in 's Heer Arendskerke, NL

Beautiful large (115 cm) round coffee table by Paul Kingma. These coffee tables are specially made for the living room the base is made of two half circles black lacquered metal that...

Category

1990s Dutch Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Metal, Brass

Unavailable

H 18.12 in W 47.25 in D 24.81 in

Coffee Table by Cees Braakman for Pastoe

By Cees Braakman, Pastoe

Located in New York, NY

Black-painted steel frame, reversible mahogany/white laminate top, ivory-painted wood shelves.

Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Aksel Bender Madsen Coffee Table for Bovenkamp

Unavailable

H 18.51 in W 39.38 in D 27.56 in

Aksel Bender Madsen Coffee Table for Bovenkamp

By Aksel Bender Madsen, Bovenkamp

Located in Lijnden, Noord-Holland

Teak coffee table by Danish designer Aksel Bender Madsen for Dutch manufacturer Bovenkamp. Is marked with a stamp at the bottom.

Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Teak

Unavailable

H 14.57 in W 38.19 in D 38.19 in

Dutch Design 'Z' Coffee Table by Harvink, 1980s

Located in MIJDRECHT, NL

Dutch Design 'Z' table by Harvink, 1980s. The Harvink "Z" coffee table is undoubtedly one of the design classics of The Dutch minimalist design of the 1980s.

Category

Vintage 1980s Dutch Minimalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Design Coffee Table "Fall/Winter" by Valentin Loellmann

Unavailable

H 15.75 in W 33.47 in D 33.47 in

Design Coffee Table "Fall/Winter" by Valentin Loellmann

By Valentin Loellmann

Located in Paris, FR

The collection "Fall/Winter" from the German designer Valentin Loellmann consists of furniture with different dimensions, functions and structures: Table, desk, bench, stool. Althoug...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Dutch Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Unavailable

H 12.6 in W 55.12 in D 29.93 in

Large Brutalist Handmade Coffee Table from Paul Kingma, 1970s

By Paul Kingma

Located in The Hague, NL

Heavy brutalist coffee table, handmade and designed by the late Dutch artist Paul Kingma in the 1970s. 1979 to be exact. Every table is a one of a kind piece, this one has an excepti...

Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Stone, Concrete, Slate, Brass

Ombre Glass Coffee End Table Low in Blue / Clear Glass

Unavailable

H 17.5 in W 36 in D 17.5 in

Ombre Glass Coffee End Table Low in Blue / Clear Glass

By Germans Ermics

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Not So General Gallery in Los Angeles is proud to present the Ombre Glass Coffee Table Low. Amsterdam-based designer Germans Ermics recent exploration with material, color and shape...

Category

2010s Dutch Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Slate, Concrete

Solid modernistvelm coffee table from the 1970s

$2,047

H 15.75 in W 78.75 in D 31.11 in

Solid modernistvelm coffee table from the 1970s

By Charlotte Perriand, Pierre Chapo

Located in LYON, FR

Maison Lecan presents this solid elm coffee table from the 1970s, a piece of direct and assured character in the manner of Charlotte Perriand and Pierre Chapo — that French rural mod...

Category

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

Materials

Elm

Vintage Oak Coffee Table From France, Circa 1960

$4,900

H 19 in Dm 43 in

Vintage Oak Coffee Table From France, Circa 1960

Located in Nashville, TN

Vintage Oak Coffee Table From France, Circa 1960. Solid oak construction with very light wear and use.

Category

Vintage 1960s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Danish Modern Square Brutalist Coffee Table in Oregon Pine, 1970s.

$1,601

$1,086

$1,172

H 21.66 in W 33.47 in D 33.47 in

Coffee Table Made In Oak By Hans J. Wegner For PP Furniture From 1960s

By PP Møbler, Hans J. Wegner

Located in Lejre, DK

Coffee table of oak designed by Hans J. Wegner and manufactured by PP Furniture in the 1960s. The table is in great vintage condition.

Category

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

Materials

Oak

Brutalist Design Solid Oak Coffee Table, Belgium 1960's

$3,370

H 17.13 in W 43.31 in D 43.31 in

Brutalist Design Solid Oak Coffee Table, Belgium 1960's

Located in Oud-Turnhout, VAN

Vintage Mid Century Brutalist Design Solid Oak Coffee Table Made in Belgium, 1960's period. Solid thick heavy oak legs and round top. This comes in very good, all original condition,...

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak

Argentine Designer, Coffeee Table, Wood, Argentina, 1970s

$3,800

H 17.5 in W 31.5 in D 31.5 in

Argentine Designer, Coffeee Table, Wood, Argentina, 1970s

Located in High Point, NC

A wood coffee table designed and produced in Argentina, c. 1970s. In vintage condition, with visible wear consistent with age and use. Moderate surface scratches, minor dents, dings...

Category

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

Materials

Wood

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Vintage Rustic Farmhouse Mid-Century Brutalist Oak Dining Table

Located in OOSTERHOUT, NL

Vintage Brutalist dining table made of solid oak, crafted in an authentic manner. Robust and characterful design with a timeless appearance. The heavy quality and artisanal finish ma...

Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Brutalist Dining Room Tables

Materials

Oak

Henning Kjærnulf Oak Corner Storage Cabinet with 3 Paneled Doors Danish Vintage

$1,235

H 66.1 in W 35.6 in D 21.1 in

Henning Kjærnulf Oak Corner Storage Cabinet with 3 Paneled Doors Danish Vintage

By Henning Kjærnulf

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This corner storage cabinet features a triangular profile with three compartments. The facade is detailed with carved paneling and a drop-down door. Its silhouette beautifully embodi...

Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Oak

Neoclassical Etched Bronze Round Occasional Table

$1,800Sale Price|25% Off

H 28.5 in W 28 in D 28 in

Neoclassical Etched Bronze Round Occasional Table

Located in Las Vegas, NV

Absolutely gorgeous, perfectly patinaed, etched bronze and reed occasional table. The table is a nice size, It would be perfect with 2 chairs or as a small center table in an entry. ...

Category

Late 20th Century Neoclassical Side Tables

Materials

Bronze

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Netherlands Coffee Table For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the Netherlands coffee table you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of metal, wood and glass, every Netherlands coffee table was constructed with great care. There are 681 variations of the antique or vintage Netherlands coffee table you’re looking for, while we also have 114 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. There are many kinds of the Netherlands 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. Each Netherlands coffee table bearing Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco or Modern hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one Netherlands coffee table that is appealing in its simplicity, but Paul Kingma, Peter Ghyczy and Gispen produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Netherlands Coffee Table?

The average selling price for a Netherlands coffee table at 1stDibs is $1,887, while they’re typically $375 on the low end and $56,515 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 Netherlands Coffee Table

Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
Can a coffee table be too low?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Yes, a coffee table can be too low. Most experts recommend choosing a coffee table that is around one to two inches lower than the seat height of your sofa or loveseat. You may find it difficult to access items on the tabletop while seated if you choose a shorter table. In addition, an overly low coffee table can make a room feel cramped or unbalanced. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Sometimes, designers intentionally place ultra-low coffee tables in spaces to create a bold contrast in a large room. Feel free to break from convention when choosing a coffee table. What's most important is that the finished result appeals to you and allows you to enjoy your seating area to the fullest. Shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables on 1stDibs.
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.
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.
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 standard size of a coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
There isn't really a standard size of a coffee table. Manufacturers produce coffee tables in a range of sizes and shapes. However, many rectangular tables are around 45 to 48 inches in length by 25 to 28 inches in width. Heights typically range from 16 to 18 inches. Shop a wide variety of coffee tables on 1stDibs.
What is a tray top coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
Tray top coffee tables are coffee tables with long, flat rectangular surfaces that are supported by an x-frame base. Low tables that were initially used as tea or coffee tables have been around since at least the mid- to late-1800s. After coffee drinking and “coffee breaks” became popular, it didn’t take long for coffee and cocktail tables to become a design staple and for consumers to recognize their role in entertaining no matter what beverages were being served. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary tray top coffee tables from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
When did coffee tables become popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Coffee tables became popular in the 1920s and ’30s. Pieces from this time period often show off the characteristics of Art Deco design, such as metal accents, mirrored finishes and the use of exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Coffee tables first came into use during the Victorian era, largely in response to the rise of coffee houses in London. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of antique, vintage and contemporary coffee tables.
How do you style an oval coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To style an oval coffee table, create balance with opposites. Choose a sofa and accent chairs with a boxier shape for a striking contrast. Place a rectangular tray in the center and use it to display decorative accents or to store remotes and coasters. Another approach to decorating an oval table is to use decorative accents at different heights. Think of a tall vase placed next to a low bowl and a small sculpture positioned on top of two stacked coffee table books. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of oval coffee tables.
How do I style a Noguchi coffee table?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Styling a Noguchi coffee table really depends on the space you’re placing it in. The possibilities are far-reaching, so consider the colors and coordination of the other furniture and fixtures around the table. Noguchi tables look beautiful on their own or styled with flowers, books or pottery. Shop a selection of Isamu Noguchi pieces on 1stDibs.
How much does a coffee table cost?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
On 1stdibs, a coffee table costs between $160 and $495,500.
How do I size a coffee table to my sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
As a general rule, choose a coffee table roughly two-thirds the length of the sofa, with the top 1 to 2 inches lower than the seat cushions.
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.

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