Modern & Art Deco Coffee Tables
Today’s coffee tables are typically long and low, often not being higher than the seat of the sofa. Dating back to the Victorian era, coffee tables used to be taller and were used to place tea. As it was the favoured drink of the time, demand for these ‘tea tables’ rose.
Unlike the modern placement in front of the sofa, the original coffee table was designed to be placed at the back of the couch and hold books, candles, and beverages. As the backs of sofas began to get lower, so too did the height of coffee tables.
As the styles of the era changed, so too did the coffee table. Art Deco tables would often be geometrically shaped with gentle curves and straight lines and were made using materials like formica laminate. Bauhaus brought glass and steel into the coffee table, and all of these influences combined to create the tables we know today. There is no limit to modern design, with tables being developed with unique legs or out of unconventional materials to match the aesthetic of the room and the owner.
Questions to Ask Before Selecting Your Coffee Table
What Do You Need?
There are several factors that need to be considered before deciding on which kind of coffee table to get. Along with shape, size, and appearance, think about the room you want your coffee table in. Knowing where in your home it will be and who will be using it most can influence your purchase.
Coffee tables in the family room tend to see a lot of use. If you plan to put the table here, you may want to select one with a sturdy build and storage options like drawers. It is also smart to choose one that can withstand stains from spilled drinks and snacks.
A glass coffee table, while beautiful, may not be the best choice for this room. It will show any fingerprints or scuffs and is quite fragile, posing a hazard for children or pets.
On the other hand, a formal living room is more suited for elegant furniture. Since this space is used less often and by older family members, delicate materials such as glass can be considered.
Will You Use It as a Centrepiece?
Coffee tables are often used as the centrepiece of the room. However, you can just as easily give that title to sofas, rugs, or other living room furniture. If you want your coffee table to stand out, you will have to consider the following attributes: style, size, shape, material, surface finish, and colour. A table with a focus on two or more of these elements will surely stand out. For example, a table with an intricate bronze metal base and geometric glass top will garner more attention than a standard design.
Do You Need Added Functionality?
Most coffee tables have flat surfaces supported by a base. However, there is a wide range of coffee tables that offer additional features based on the function you intend to use the table for.
If you need your table to serve as storage space, choose one with additional drawers, compartments, or shelves. Ottomans and trunks are great options for your coffee table that offer adequate storage.
If you have limited space and will often need to move the table, it can help to get a coffee table with wheels. This makes it easier to roll out of the way or into a different room.
Find the Perfect Coffee Table for Your Home in Toronto
When you begin to look for a new coffee table, be sure to browse Carrocel’s unique and diverse product selection. It includes designs that showcase many styles from throughout history and span various eras. Bringing a coffee table from Carrocel into your home is sure to make a statement in your room and add luxury and class to your décor.
For more information about the coffee tables currently available for purchase at Carrocel, please contact us. You may also view our current stock by visiting us and browsing our showroom or view our online catalogue.
