What is an artist’s table called?

What an artist's table is called varies. Some terms used to describe this type of table include drawing table, drafting table, architect's table and engineer's table. By any name, this type of table usually stands taller than the average desk and has an angled working surface. Find a selection of drafting tables on 1stDibs.

Are drafting tables good for artists?

Whether or not drafting tables are good for artists is largely a matter of personal opinion. Artists may find it more comfortable to use one for long sessions of illustrating and drawing. In addition, some artists appreciate that the tables keep their work secure. Find a range of drafting tables on 1stDibs.

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.

Coffee Table Artistic

Materials

Metal, Wrought Iron

EBB No. 1 Coffee Table in Jesmonite by Perler

Located in Geneve, CH

Full customization is available on request: dimensions, height, color tone, and even the texture configuration of the legs. EBB No. 1 is an artistic coffee table whose gallery-worth...

Category

2010s Polish Post-Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Other

Contemporary Colored Resin Drop Coffee Table with Glass Top by Sergio Vulpe

Located in Burlăceni, Cahul District

Its minimalist silhouette, artistic expression, and handcrafted quality make it both a practical coffee table and a statement centerpiece.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Moldovan Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Epoxy Resin

$9,051

Mid-Century Modern Infinity Marble Coffee Table, Handmade Portugal by Greenapple

By Rute Martins, Greenapple

Located in Lisboa, PT

A true statement piece, the Infinity marble coffee table brings sophistication and artistic allure to contemporary interiors.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Onyx, Marble, Carrara Marble, Brass, Stainless Steel, Gold Leaf

Kairós Sculptural Fusion Glass Coffee Table by MainGUILTY w/Clear & Bronze Glass

$15,180 / item

Kairós Sculptural Fusion Glass Coffee Table by MainGUILTY w/Clear & Bronze Glass

By Carlos Mello

Located in Freamunde, PT

This refined material composition aligns with the expectations of interior designers, architects, and luxury private clients seeking modern luxury coffee tables with artistic craftsm...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Organic Modern Center Tables

Materials

Glass, Art Glass, Paint

Yala Coffee Table in Teak Hand Carved Organic Form and Texture, In Stock

$3,607 / item

Yala Coffee Table in Teak Hand Carved Organic Form and Texture, In Stock

Located in Palma, ES

Ideal for living spaces, this coffee table balances artistic expression with everyday functionality, standing as a testament to the enduring appeal of handcrafted design.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Hardwood, Teak, Wood

Recent Sales

Tear Drop Coffee Table With Glass Top

Unavailable

H 16 in W 33 in D 33 in

Tear Drop Coffee Table With Glass Top

Located in New Haven, CT

Early 1980s glass top coffee table artistically refinished by our team in 3” layers of shiny and matt textured lacquer over metal, The original oval glass top is 3/4” thick and frost...

Category

20th Century American Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Sheet Metal

3" Thick Solid Hardwood Coffee Table - Hand Finished - Sculptural Knot Design

Unavailable

H 25 in W 49 in D 20 in

3" Thick Solid Hardwood Coffee Table - Hand Finished - Sculptural Knot Design

Located in Mississauga, Ontario

This Modern Organic Coffee Table is a must-have for those seeking a stunning handcrafted solid hardwood piece that merges artistic design with practical functionality.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Asian Organic Modern Coffee and Cocktail T...

Materials

Brass

Bliss Coffee Table

Unavailable

Sold

H 18 in W 48 in D 30 in

Artistic Coffee Tile Table

Located in Delray Beach, FL

Beautiful weathered tile table made of metal frame with small colorful ceramic tiles from the 1960s. Embedded into it, in geometric shape. Great as coffee table indoor or outdoor. ...

Category

Vintage 1960s European Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal

Unique Artistic Coffee Table

Sold

H 18 in W 25.5 in D 18.5 in

Unique Artistic Coffee Table

Located in Greenwich, CT

Unusual English coffee/game table, the octagonal top with inlaid sycamore and rosewood checker board, decorative rosewood butterfly joints, the legs with pieced rosewood and sycamore...

Category

Vintage 1930s English Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Oak, Sycamore, Rosewood

Artistic Belarti Style Tile Table Coffee Table

Sold

H 15.625 in W 32 in D 32 in

Artistic Belarti Style Tile Table Coffee Table

By Juliette Belarti

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Artistic round tiled coffee table with custom red, orange, yellow, green molten lava tilework.

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Artistic Iron and Persian Tile Coffee Table

Sold

H 17 in W 30.5 in D 18.5 in

Artistic Iron and Persian Tile Coffee Table

Located in Delray Beach, FL

Coffee table made of iron and Persian tile,the design center around a Persian Tile of a warrior on a horse playing ,surrounded by beautiful mosaic of broken Persian pottery ,with...

Category

Vintage 1960s North American Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Iron

Sold

H 18.5 in W 25 in D 23 in

Artistic Bronze and Brass Cocktail Table

Located in Delray Beach, FL

Beautiful artistic made side or cocktail table very strong and solid to hold. Glass marble or stone top. Great patina, could stay outside and be exposed to the element it. Is not ...

Sold

H 22.84 in W 38.59 in D 25.6 in

Coffee Table Made In Mahogany With Carvings From 1880s

Located in Lejre, DK

These carvings, likely featuring floral motifs, scrollwork, or other decorative elements typical of the period, reflect the intricate design trends of the late 19th century. This co...

Category

Antique 1880s Danish Louis XV Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Heinz Lilienthal Etched Coffee Table Made in 1970, Germany

Sold

H 19.69 in W 39.38 in D 39.38 in

Heinz Lilienthal Etched Coffee Table Made in 1970, Germany

By Heinz Lilienthal Werkstatten 1

Located in Oirlo, LI

Beautiful artistic coffee table designed and manufactured by Heinz Lilienthal in his own workshop, Germany 1970.

Category

Vintage 1970s German Brutalist Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Sculptural Coffee Table by Artist A. Van der Linden, 1986

Sold

H 13.78 in W 55.12 in D 33.47 in

Sculptural Coffee Table by Artist A. Van der Linden, 1986

Located in Antwerp, BE

Gorgeous artistic coffee table by Andre Van der Linden, a known Dutch sculptor.

Category

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

Materials

Wood

Hollywood Regency Marc D’haenens Coffee Table with Amethyst Inlay

Sold

H 13.78 in W 51.19 in D 27.56 in

Hollywood Regency Marc D’haenens Coffee Table with Amethyst Inlay

By Marc D'haenens

Located in Antwerp, BE

Mid-Century Modern artistic coffee with table by Marc d'Haenens With a center quartz inlay and an acid etched top resting on two bases Signed by Marc D'Haenens Belgium, 1970s.

Category

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

Materials

Amethyst, Aluminum

Sold

H 15 in W 21.5 in D 70 in

Cool Mid Century Boomerang Leg Coffee table in the style of Adrian Pearsall

By Adrian Pearsall

Located in Las Vegas, NV

Gorgeous Mid Century Boomerang Leg Coffee table by Koehler from the "American Leisure" Line An absolutely stunning, artistic Sculptural coffee table with exceptional construction ...

Category

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

Materials

Walnut

Grey Coffee Table Scagliola Art Top Plexiglass Legs Handmade in Italy by Cupioli

Sold

Sold

H 31.5 in W 47.25 in D 15.75 in

"La Senséé C" Coffee Side Table, 1960s, France

By La Senséé C

Located in Sofia, BG

Beautiful and elegant 1960s coffee table from France. Artistically hand-painted with the signature "La Senséé C".

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Unusual Karl Springer Goatskin Table

Sold

H 17.5 in W 54 in D 36 in

Unusual Karl Springer Goatskin Table

Located in North Miami, FL

Large Karl Springer goatskin coffee table. Artistically designed with contrasting shades and shapes of the skins forming an interesting surface design that extends onto the legs.

H 14.97 in W 47.25 in D 17.33 in

Vintage ceramic coffee table, 1960s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Mid century ceramic tile coffee table with bottles decor Beautifully decorated tiled table top on a chrome frame. Very good condition 1960s - Belgium Height: 38cm/14.96" Width: 1...

Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Robert and Jean Cloutier Ceramic Steel Coffee Table, 1950s

$7,812

H 14.18 in W 40.56 in D 20.87 in

Robert and Jean Cloutier Ceramic Steel Coffee Table, 1950s

By Robert and Jean Cloutier

Located in Paris, IDF

Robert and Jean Cloutier were ceramicists who viewed their work as art, with functionality as perhaps a secondary purpose. The ceramic table surface made in enamelled lava stone, wit...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

People Also Browsed

1969 Rare Iconic Pierre Folie ' Hydra ' 5 ams Brass Floor Lamp , France

$3,996Sale Price|20% Off

H 58 in W 16 in D 16 in

1969 Rare Iconic Pierre Folie ' Hydra ' 5 ams Brass Floor Lamp , France

By Pierre Folie, Jacques Charpentier

Located in St- Leonard, Quebec

Rare iconic massive ' Hydra ' floor lamp from Pierre Folie made by Jacques Charpentier in 1969 , France . Solid , sturdy material and construction . Create fun aesthetic sculp...

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

CADEN Small Ceramic Dome Table Lamp, Highly Textured Black Glaze, Kalin Asenov

$1,900 / item

H 14 in W 9 in D 9 in

CADEN Small Ceramic Dome Table Lamp, Highly Textured Black Glaze, Kalin Asenov

By Kalin Asenov

Located in Savannah, GA

Obsidian Reef A deeply textured black lava glaze, reminiscent of coral and natural stone, with captivating shades that come alive when illuminated In Kalin Asenov's studio locat...

Category

2010s American Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

H 48 in W 35.75 in D 12 in

Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Brass Bookcase Etagere by Paul McCobb

By Paul McCobb

Located in North York, ON

An iconic piece of mid-century modern design, this walnut and brass bookcase étagère by Paul McCobb was crafted in the USA circa 1970’s. The sleek brass frame provides a refined arch...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Get Updated with New Arrivals

Save "Coffee Table Artistic", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Coffee Table Artistic For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the coffee table artistic you’re looking for. A coffee table artistic — often made from metal, wood and plaster — can elevate any home. Find 9 options for an antique or vintage coffee table artistic now, or shop our selection of 6 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a coffee table artistic — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A coffee table artistic made by Modern designers — as well as those associated with Mid-Century Modern — is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one coffee table artistic that is appealing in its simplicity, but Cupioli made in Italy, Guy De Jong and Luísa Peixoto produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Coffee Table Artistic?

The average selling price for a coffee table artistic at 1stDibs is $1,766, while they’re typically $925 on the low end and $9,500 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 Coffee Table Artistic

What is an artist’s table called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
What an artist's table is called varies. Some terms used to describe this type of table include drawing table, drafting table, architect's table and engineer's table. By any name, this type of table usually stands taller than the average desk and has an angled working surface. Find a selection of drafting tables on 1stDibs.
Are drafting tables good for artists?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Whether or not drafting tables are good for artists is largely a matter of personal opinion. Artists may find it more comfortable to use one for long sessions of illustrating and drawing. In addition, some artists appreciate that the tables keep their work secure. Find a range of drafting tables on 1stDibs.
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.

20 Inviting Dining Rooms Perfectly Arranged for Entertaining

Top interior designers show — and tell — us how to create delectable spaces for hosting dinner parties.

This Alain Delon–Designed Table Is Almost as Handsome as He Was

Fans of the French film star may be surprised to learn that he had a flair for furniture with sleek lines and disco-era flash.

Uchronia’s Plant Stand Gives Pots a Pretty Perch with All the Trimmings

Like other pieces in the firm’s Candy Box collection, the cheerful limited-edition design showcases French craft.

The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home

Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.

Is Lionel Jadot the Willy Wonka of Upcycled Belgian Design?

From his massive collaborative workshop in a former paper factory, the designer concocts funky furniture from disused materials, as well as luxe hotel interiors like the new Mix Brussels.