Coffee Tables

Short of an accent chair or statement sofa, nothing adds personality to a living room like a vintage coffee table. Whether it’s a monumental Postmodern pink marble coffee table or a Brutalist brass and chrome patchwork coffee table, coffee tables have the ability to make a room truly come to life. If you’re shopping for a vintage or antique coffee table, don’t hesitate to kick off your search here at Chairish. We work with thousands of A-list vintage dealers, as well as individual sellers, to curate a best-in-class assortment of vintage coffee tables for sale. Should you be in the market for a particular table from a maker like La Barge or Willy Rizzo, or you’re simply looking to browse, our collection is sure to delight and inspire.

Shop Vintage Coffee Tables with Character

On the hunt for a particular style of vintage coffee table to complement an in-progress design project or interior? Our style filters make easy work of locating coffee tables in particular aesthetic styles such as Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Mid-Century Modern and more. Browse brass coffee tables from brands like Pace Collection and Mastercraft, as well as Lucite tables from 1960s and 70s acrylic aficionado Charles Hollis Jones. Discover Postmodern Art Deco-inspired tables from Karl Springer, crafted of designer materials like lacquered goatskin and parchment. For those who desire authentic Art Deco, we routinely carry Aldo Tura coffee tables, as well. More of a modernist? Shop tables from beloved Mid-Century Modern brands like Lane Furniture, Broyhill, Drexel and many more.

HOW TO PICK THE PERFECT VINTAGE COFFEE TABLE

Whether you consider yourself a caffeine fiend or not, the coffee table has become a non-negotiable in the modern home. So much more than a simple sofa anchor, it has evolved into the heart of a living room’s conversation pit. It’s a place for drinks to rest post-clinks, and cheese boards and game boards to temporarily call home. Give it fitting acclaim by opting for a vintage coffee table that pairs famously with your other furniture. Not exactly sure what that consists of? Read on for our no-fail coffee table guide.

YOUR STYLE IS...

Glam

For those that shun the notion that metallic be reserved for New Year’s Eve, there’s no better choice than a Regency coffee table. Clad in sparkling Lucite, brass, or chrome, these regal vintage coffee tables (or should we say cocktail tables) are an ode to an era of by-gone glamour. Among the most classic Hollywood Regency motifs are the wheat sheaf, the swan, and the ram (or ibex). Look for these motifs to be integrated into brass table bases and play up their shimmer by pairing with glass tops, demure rugs, and low-slung furniture (preferably upholstered in some kind of eye-popping velvet like chartreuse or cheetah).

Retro

If the amoebic nature of L.A. swimming pools speaks to you, consider something retro. From the cool-looking kidney bean shape to the biomorphic blob, vintage Mid-Century Modern coffee tables offer up a clean, unfussy look that perfectly complements straight-lined furniture. For something a little less daring, look for Danish Modern designs (which are typically rectangular in shape), or used coffee tables from Scandinavian makers. A favored Scandinavian design showcases an oblong top raised on splayed pencil legs—it’s simplistic perfection.

Rustic & Worldly

Does a pouf and pillow-filled, floor-level dining experience fill your heart with a sense of unbridled glee? If so, we deem you a contender for used coffee table of the rustic and worldly variety. These are the tables crafted of reclaimed woods, knotty pines, and paint-washed boards. Surface area is expansive, inviting guests to sink down to table level and divulge in game playing and eat-with-your-hands-style dining. Nothing too precious here, which is exactly what a laid-back household with bohemian, farmhouse, or coastal vibes requires.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should a coffee table be taller or shorter than the couch?

A coffee table should generally be slightly shorter than the couch. The ideal height for a coffee table is typically between 16 to 18", which is about 1-2 inches lower than the average couch seat height.

Is it better to have a coffee table or not?

Whether to have a coffee table or not depends on personal preference and the available space in the living room. Coffee tables provide a convenient surface and can serve as a centerpiece for the room, but in smaller spaces, they may make the area feel cramped. They are still quite popular and most people have one in their living room to serve as a place to rest a coffee or a tea cup.

What is the rule for the distance between the coffee table and couch?

The general rule for the distance between a coffee table and couch is to leave about 12 to 18 inches of space. This allows for comfortable leg room and ease of movement around the table while still keeping items on the table within reach.

How big should your coffee table be compared to your couch?

A coffee table should typically be about two-thirds the length of your couch. For example, if your couch is 96" long, a coffee table around 64" long would be a good fit. However, the size can vary depending on the available space and layout of the room.

What are the benefits of owning a vintage coffee table?

Vintage coffee tables add character, uniqueness, and a sense of history to a living space. They are often crafted with high-quality materials and showcase excellent workmanship, making them a durable and long-lasting addition to any home.

Can a vintage coffee table fit into a modern décor style?

Yes, a vintage coffee table can be incorporated into a modern décor style. The contrast between the vintage piece and contemporary elements can create an eclectic and visually interesting look, adding depth and personality to the room.

How do I determine the value of a vintage coffee table?

To determine the value of a vintage coffee table, consider factors such as its age, rarity, condition, and designer or manufacturer. Research similar pieces online or consult with a professional appraiser who specializes in vintage furniture for a more accurate valuation.