Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is it called a coffee table?
1 Answer
Coffee tables were originally used in living spaces during social gatherings to support a tray containing multiple mugs, a coffee pot, creamers and sugar bowls. Low to the ground and centrally located in the space, coffee tables reduced the host or hostess’s need to constantly stand and serve her guests.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
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Shop for Coffee and Cocktail Tables on 1stDibs
Extra Large Jane and Gordon Martz Coffee Table / Bench for Marshall Studios
Located in Phoenix, AZ
Extra long rectangle coffee table by Gordon and Jane Martz for Marshall Studios. The table top is inlaid with olive and taupe square ceramic tiles and the frame and legs are solid wa...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Walnut
Wrought Iron Martini Table, Small
Located in London, GB
A wrought iron martini table, hand made in England to a 1940s original design. 500
Shown here finished with a natural bronze patina. Available in bronze or black finishes.
Large: 3...
Category
2010s British Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Wrought Iron
Set of 3 low tables/pouf “Gli Scacchi” by Mario Bellini per C&B Italia 70’s
Located in Padova, IT
With a playful character, the Gli Scacchi series is made up of three inspired elements as the name reveals at most classic game, in particular the Queen, Knight and Tower pieces. Lig...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Acrylic
Holly Hunt Tudor Round Cocktail Coffee Table With Hand Forged Iron & Alpine Ash
By HOLLY HUNT
Located in London, GB
Since 1983, Holly Hunt has been the defining voice in modern luxury interiors. Offering exquisite furnishings, an unparalleled showroom experience, and unwavering service to the prof...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary British Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Metal
Baldacchino Coffee Table with Shell Stone Top and Iron Base by Formations
By Formations
Located in Salt Lake City, UT
Baldacchino coffee table by Formations USA. Shell stone top with fossilized shells imbedded and imprinted in the travertine. Barley-twist style iron bas...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...
Materials
Travertine, Iron
Painter's Palette Marble Coffee Table
Located in Stamford, CT
A very unusual small coffee table or side table in marble mosaic in the shape of a painter's palette supported by a trio of slender metal legs capped in brass spheres.
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Marble, Metal, Brass