| A coffee table is a low table which is useful in a living | | | | could choose a design classic like the Noguchi Coffee |
| room as a place to stand a cup of coffee, magazines, | | | | Table. |
| books and other similar items. Many people think that | | | | Tips On Choosing A Coffee Table |
| coffee tables started life in the 1920's but they go | | | | 1. To get an appropriate size, allow at least 15 inches |
| back a lot further than that. They were very common | | | | between the sofa and the coffee table. |
| in the Ottoman Empire - usually found in tea gardens. | | | | 2. When in doubt, it's better to have one that's too big |
| Coffee houses first became popular in the 1600's. The | | | | rather than too small. |
| first one in London was opened in 1652 and Boston's | | | | 3. Coffee tables are usually a standard 16 inches high |
| first was in 1670. | | | | but some modern ones can be as low as 11 inches. |
| They enjoyed a resurgence of popularity after the first | | | | 4. Are people likely to put their feet up on it? If they |
| world war - but not as a stand-alone item. Suites of | | | | are, a wooden or upholstered one will be more suitable |
| matching furniture were the most popular and the | | | | than a glass top or a delicate surface like a walnut |
| coffee table was simply one item in the set. However, | | | | veneer. |
| this humble table has broken free and now stands on | | | | 5. If your living room is small, a glass topped coffee |
| its own merits. | | | | table allows the light through and won't 'close in' the |
| How To Choose A Coffee Table That's Right For | | | | space as much as a solid one. If you have a |
| You | | | | particularly beautiful carpet, a glass topped table will |
| The first thing to consider is what other furniture you | | | | help to show it off. |
| have in the living room. | | | | 6. If your sofa has skirted covers, a 'leggy' coffee table |
| If you prefer a traditional style, there are plenty of | | | | looks great. |
| tables to choose from. You may decide on a wooden | | | | 7. If your sofa has legs, go for a 'block' table. In these |
| one to coordinate with existing wood furniture. Another | | | | last two examples, opposites enhance each other. |
| traditional look is a glass table top sitting in a brass or | | | | 8. The table should ideally be the same height as the |
| gilded base. Upholstered ottomans are extremely | | | | seat of the sofa. |
| popular now as they can act as a coffee table or a | | | | 9. One beautiful item looks stunning on a coffee table. |
| low seat to pull near to the fire. | | | | This could be a vase of flowers, a beautiful glass bowl, |
| People often enjoy creating their own traditional style | | | | a wooden bowl filled with pebbles or a stack of witty |
| table from reclaimed materials such as a beautiful | | | | coffee table books. |
| wrought iron gate, an old wooden front door, or old | | | | 10. Don't overcrowd the table or you'll have nowhere |
| wooden floor boards. | | | | to put your coffee! To easily keep it clutter-free, put a |
| If you prefer a modern look, you'll be spoilt for choice. | | | | decorative basket or trunk underneath the coffee |
| Cubes made from wood, leather, metal, or plexiglass | | | | table for a quick clear-up. You can sort through it and |
| are very popular now. Other materials like stone and | | | | put the stuff away later! |
| ceramics can look very chic and sophisticated. Or you | | | | |