8 Ways to Reimagine the Coffee Table
A Trunk, Ottoman, Cart and More Can Become the Center of the Living Room
Gone are the days when your coffee table had to be just a coffee table. In today's design world, the coffee table can be so much more. Whether an industrial element, something pulled directly from the woods or a piece of high art, these furnishings still serve their all-important purpose: a place to put your feet or drinks.
1. Pick antique fixtures as conversation pieces. In this French-inspired living room, the industrial cart becomes a perfect place to showcase other collectibles. The rustic nature of the wood works beautifully with the neutral colors and textures in the rest of the room.
3. Sometimes overscale is just the right size. I'm not sure if this is an ottoman, a coffee table or a bed. As a coffee table it's just right. You can put your feet up on the perimeter, while the tray in the middle acts as a stable location for drinks.
4. If space is limited, use a piece that has multiple purposes. I've seen multi-functional pieces before, but never a coffee table that is also a child's table. This low table and set of chairs becomes a perfect place for the kids to work on art projects while the adults sit and converse around them.
5. "Lighten" a piece with mirrors. This super-glam mirrored coffee table reflects all the colors and textures going on this room. The reflective nature also keeps the table from feeling too large in the space, which it could otherwise do given the chunkiness of the legs and top.
6. Natural elements work as functional sculpture. In this modern space, the tree root base adds an interesting texture and shape, especially against the highly geometric pattern on the area rug. If you're going to use a table with an unusual shape or pattern, consider how it plays off other patterns and materials used in the space.
7. Highlight architectural elements with high design. Nothing like a modern coffee table with only one leg (yep, that's right!). This table has a leg on the right side and is suspended on the left side using steel cables. The light underneath highlights the fact that this piece is suspended and replicates the other architectural elements in this space.
8. Look for a modern interpretation of a classic piece. This trunk–turned–coffee table hints at an era long gone when steamer trunks were more predominant. The stainless steel brings this piece into the 21st century. Notice how the patterned stools reflect the geometric pattern of the area rug and wall art, all balanced against the cold reflective surface of the trunk.
More ways with coffee tables:
Design Details: Coffee Tables Done Right
A Clear Choice: Lucite Coffee Tables
More ways with coffee tables:
Design Details: Coffee Tables Done Right
A Clear Choice: Lucite Coffee Tables