Coffee Tables Buying Guide
A Brief History
The style of coffee table we now know is derived from two
designs. In Britain during the Victorian era tables were
designed to sit against low backed sofas, as a place to set
down a cup or book. The evolution towards a low and long
style design is most probably derived from the tables used
in tea gardens by either the Japanese or Ottoman Empire -
world styles that were both in vogue towards the end of the
1800's.
Coffee tables are most often positioned in the centre of a
living room, parallel to a sofa. However, they're perfectly
suitable for use in hallways and other rooms as a low level
display or storage table. If you are purchasing a coffee table
for use in a living room it's first important to determine the
appropriate size. Look at the table dimensions and see how they
fill the room - you ideally want a decent space all around the
table so that it doesn't appear bulky and ungainly. While the
gap between the sofas or armchairs should be just within arms
reach for when you want your mug, magazine or television remote!
There are a number of coffee tables that offer a
additional storage capacity. The most common is a lower
shelf that is fitted between the legs and roughly measures
the same space as the top. This area is often ideal if you
are a looking to keep your coffee table mostly clear, but
still wish to keep certain items to hand. Other coffee
tables contain inbuilt drawers just below the table surface.
This tends to be a perfect size for those small odds and
ends that tend to clutter your living space. Finally we
offer coffee tables with a large amount of storage for the
most demanding homes! There is the
six drawer coffee table where the entire space between
the legs is filled with drawers. And there is the
Segusino Sliding Top Coffee Table whereby the top lifts
open for a large internal storage space.
There are a multitude of styles available for coffee
tables - ranging from classical to contemporary. First
ensure that your new purchase does not clash with your
existing furnishings. Some are designed to appear more
suited to a traditional style homes or to match a particular
period of style. While there are also more modern pieces
that tend to be constructed with simple and clean lines. The
pine furniture will give your room a lighter feel, while
the oak is rich and warm, great for older styles, while
there is also
painted furniture for a more unusual touch. All items
are given a finish that will ensure the natural wood or
sleek paint will remain untarnished and fully emerge. So
whatever you taste, there is sure to be a coffee table that
will complete your living room.