The mid century modern coffee table is more than a functional piece of furniture it’s a symbol of an era that embraced innovation and minimalist design. These tables became iconic not only for their aesthetics but also for their role in the cultural tapestry of mid-century life. Whether serving as a surface for morning coffee, a place to rest snacks during a TV show, or a conversation starter, these tables epitomized the spirit of the mid-century modern movement.
While coffee tables date back to the 1700s, they were originally the same height as dining tables. It wasn’t until the 1920s that coffee tables evolved into their lower forms, complementing the needs of modern living spaces. By the 1950s, with the growing popularity of television, the mid century modern coffee table had secured its place in American homes, offering functionality and style while remaining unobtrusive.
What Is Mid Century Modern Design?
Mid-century modern (MCM) is a timeless design movement that emerged in the mid-20th century. Heavily influenced by the Bauhaus art movement, it focuses on clean lines, simple forms, and functional elegance. Ornamentation is minimal, as the mantra “form follows function” defines every piece. While MCM design extends to architecture, it is perhaps best recognized in iconic furniture designs like the mid century modern coffee table.
Mid Century Modern Coffee Tables: Unique Designs to Elevate Your Space
When it comes to creating a retro-inspired living area, the mid century modern coffee table is a must-have. These tables are more than just functional pieces; they bring sophistication and style that effortlessly tie a room together. Below, we explore some standout designs that embody the elegance and charm of mid-century aesthetics, perfect for a variety of spaces and budgets.
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Noguchi Style Coffee Table
The Noguchi coffee table, designed by Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, is an enduring classic of mid-century modern design. This table combines artistry with practicality, featuring a thick glass top supported by two interlocking wooden bases. Its shape, with boomerang-like legs and an irregular triangular glass surface, is a hallmark of the Atomic Age aesthetic.
An original Noguchi table by Herman Miller can cost around £1,900 at premium retailers like The Conran Shop. However, more budget-friendly replicas are available for approximately £400 from stores like Zazous. Thanks to its glass-and-wood composition, this table complements any color palette. For a truly retro vibe, pair it with a white leather Knoll-style three-seater sofa to channel the spirit of the 1950s.
2. Ruben Triple Coffee Table
The Ruben Triple Coffee Table is a showstopper with its three tempered glass tops in vibrant mid-century colors and a sleek brass frame. Its striking retro design makes it a true statement piece. This table pairs beautifully with plush furniture, such as a velvet or mustard sofa, creating a sophisticated yet cozy atmosphere. At £599, it’s an investment in timeless elegance for your home.
3. Quilda Vintage Coffee Table
The Quilda Vintage Coffee Table combines oak and cane for an unmistakably classic mid century modern coffee table aesthetic. With two tiers, it provides both style and practicality, offering extra storage for books, décor, or everyday items. This table is ideal for relaxed living spaces or even a sunlit conservatory. Pair it with the matching Quilda Vintage Oak Sideboard to create a cohesive mid-century theme in your room.
4. Maricielo Oak & Glass Coffee Table
The Maricielo Oak & Glass Coffee Table is an excellent alternative to the iconic Noguchi design, offering a more traditional oak base. Its clean lines and classic mid-century style make it a great choice for lighter, minimalist interiors. Despite its high-end appearance, this table is surprisingly affordable at £350, making it a stylish yet budget-friendly option.
5. Iloss Walnut Coffee Table
The Iloss Walnut Coffee Table brings warmth and sophistication to any living space. Crafted from solid walnut, its organic mid-century design features chamfered edges and a base inspired by airplane wings—perfect for fans of the Jet Age aesthetic. This mid century modern coffee table strikes a balance between bold design and functional beauty, making it an excellent focal point for any room.
6. Oki Square Caramel Glass Coffee Table
The Oki Square Caramel Glass Coffee Table channels the exuberance of the 1970s, a nod to the later years of mid-century design. Its caramel-toned glass top and clean lines evoke a Studio 54 vibe, perfect for creating a retro-chic atmosphere. Pair it with a shag pile rug, pop on some Bee Gees, and you’re set for a nostalgic time-travel experience. At just £249, it’s an affordable piece with plenty of character.
7. Magosia Walnut Coffee Table
The Magosia Walnut Coffee Table is a classic piece that exudes elegance and durability. Crafted from solid walnut, it’s a heritage-quality table designed to last for generations. Its timeless design and mid-century flair make it a true investment piece at just £350. Whether placed in a modern or retro-inspired living room, this table seamlessly ties the space together with its rich, warm tones.
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Heiana Rattan Coffee Table
For those who love the boho-meets-mid-century look, the Heiana Rattan Coffee Table is an excellent choice. Lightweight and versatile, this table looks stunning both indoors and outdoors, offering a unique blend of natural rattan and minimalist design. Its compatibility with 1970s-style sofas makes it an ideal option for creating a relaxed, retro vibe.
9. Watford Walnut Vintage Coffee Table
The Watford Walnut Vintage Coffee Table is as practical as it is stylish. Its generous surface ensures everyone on the sofa has a spot for their coffee cups, making it perfect for family gatherings or casual entertaining. Featuring classic mid century modern coffee table design elements, it pairs beautifully with retro-inspired sofas, especially those with walnut accents. Affordable yet sophisticated, this table is a versatile addition to any home.
10. Tancani Amber Marble Coffee Table
The Tancani Amber Marble Coffee Table is a masterpiece, offering a touch of early modernism inspired by the works of Mies van der Rohe. Its amber-toned marble top is reminiscent of the Barcelona Pavilion and pairs beautifully with iconic furniture like the Barcelona Chair or daybed. A stunning choice for those seeking a luxurious mid century modern coffee table, this piece serves as both a functional table and a work of art.
Celebrate the Mid Century Coffee Table
Let’s raise a cup of coffee to the mid century modern coffee table, a centerpiece where dreams are discussed, memories are made, and timeless style meets everyday function. Whether you prefer walnut wood, rattan textures, or marble elegance, these designs capture the heart of mid-century modern living.
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Noguchi Coffee Table
Isamu Noguchi, a renowned sculptor and designer, is often mentioned alongside legends like Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and George Nelson. Noguchi’s artistic genius is evident not only in his sculptures but also in his iconic coffee table.
Introduced in the 1940s by Herman Miller, the Noguchi Coffee Table is a perfect blend of form and function. Its sturdy base supports a thick glass top, creating an elegant and timeless design. This mid century modern coffee table is celebrated for its sculptural quality and remains a sought-after piece, with both authentic versions and replicas available for modern homes.
Platner Coffee Table
Warren Platner’s coffee table is a masterpiece of design and craftsmanship. Created using hundreds of curved steel rods, this table strikes the perfect balance between structure and ornamentation. Platner’s background as an architect shines through in the table’s graceful lines and intricate detailing.
First introduced in the 1960s, the Platner Coffee Table is still produced today, with notable versions like the 18K gold-plated edition launched in 2015 to celebrate its 50th anniversary. This mid century modern coffee table is ideal for adding a touch of elegance to any room.
Eames Elliptical Coffee Table
Known as the “Surfboard Table,” the Eames Elliptical Coffee Table debuted in 1951 as part of the legendary Eames furniture collection. Its sleek design features a birch-laminated plywood base with a black or white plastic top, supported by a bent steel frame.
Designed with a low profile and elongated shape, this table pairs perfectly with long sofas, offering a stylish centerpiece for casual seating areas. Relaunched by Herman Miller in 1994, the Eames Elliptical Table continues to be a popular choice for those seeking a classic mid century modern coffee table with a modern twist.
Why Choose a Mid Century Modern Coffee Table?
Each of these iconic designs showcases the innovation and beauty of mid-century modern furniture. Whether you prefer the sculptural artistry of Noguchi, the graceful curves of Platner, or the sleek profile of Eames, these tables are more than furniture—they’re timeless investments in style and functionality.
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Mid Century Modern Coffee Table: Timeless Designs That Transform Your Living Space
The mid century modern coffee table is a staple of timeless interior design. With sleek lines, innovative materials, and iconic craftsmanship, these coffee tables blend form and function effortlessly. Here, we explore some legendary designs that continue to inspire and captivate enthusiasts of mid-century style.
Saarinen Tulip Coffee Table
Eero Saarinen’s Tulip Coffee Table, introduced in 1957 as part of the Pedestal Collection, remains an enduring icon. Featuring an elegantly curved cast aluminum base and an oval top available in materials such as marble or walnut, the design embodies modern simplicity.
Produced under Knoll, this table was part of Saarinen’s mission to declutter spaces by replacing traditional legs with a singular, streamlined base. Authentic Saarinen tables are distinguished by their slim, perfectly contoured pedestal, a detail often missed in replicas, which may have thicker, less refined bases. Today, this mid century modern coffee table is a coveted centerpiece for minimalist and modern interiors.
Astro Coffee Table
Victor Wilkins’ Astro Coffee Table, released in 1967 by G Plan, showcases a stunning combination of a teak or walnut frame with a glass top. Perfect for compact spaces, its petite size pairs beautifully with smaller sofas or low-profile chairs.
The Astro design reflects mid-century fascination with space exploration, combining futuristic shapes with Scandinavian-style craftsmanship. Wilkins also designed other beloved pieces, including the Spider coffee table and sleek nesting tables, but the Astro table remains a favorite for its timeless appeal.
Danish Coffee Tables
Danish-designed mid century modern coffee table are celebrated for their light forms and impeccable craftsmanship. Often made from teak, rosewood, beech, or white oak, these tables come in a variety of shapes—oval, square, rectangular—and may feature added functionality such as shelves or drawers.
Teak, a popular material for its durability, is frequently used for the tops of these tables, ensuring they withstand daily wear and tear. Solid teak tops can be re-sanded to maintain their appearance, while veneer tops offer unique design possibilities with exposed grain patterns. Danish coffee tables exemplify the adaptability of mid-century modern design, effortlessly complementing a variety of interiors.
Materials in Mid Century Coffee Tables
The hallmark of mid century modern coffee table lies in their innovative use of materials. Teak, oak, walnut, and plywood are frequently paired with modern materials like glass, plexiglass, and fiberglass. These combinations create striking contrasts in color and texture, adding depth and interest to each piece.
The timeless appeal of mid-century furniture is rooted in its clean lines, functional design, and ability to blend seamlessly with other styles. Whether you choose a Saarinen masterpiece, a space-inspired Astro table, or a Danish classic, these tables remain an investment in style and practicality.
Explore these iconic designs to find the perfect mid century modern coffee table for your space. With their timeless elegance and functional brilliance, these pieces are sure to elevate your living room for years to come.
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DIY Mid Century Modern Coffee Table: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to create a stunning piece of furniture that embodies timeless elegance, crafting your own mid century modern coffee table is an ideal project. With the right materials, tools, and steps, you can design a functional and stylish centerpiece for your living room. Here’s how to bring your vision to life.
Tools You’ll Need
- Circular or track saw
- Miter saw (optional)
- Table saw (optional)
- Dowel jig kit
- 24″ clamps (at least 2)
- Drill
- Router with 3/8″ round-over bit
- Random-orbit sander
- Sandpaper (100, 150, 220, and 320 grits)
Step 1: Preparing the Wood for the Table
Start by creating the top and bottom panels for your mid century modern coffee table. Take the three 7 1/4″ wide boards and cut them in half to produce six pieces, each 48 inches longUse a doweling jig kit to edge-join the pieces. Drill 5/16″ dowel holes at intervals of 5″, 14″, 24″, 34″, and 43″ along the edges of each board. Apply Titebond III wood glue to the dowels and edges, then clamp the boards together tightly. Allow the glued boards to dry for 24 hours.
After drying, scrape away any excess glue to ensure a smooth surface. Use a random-orbit sander with coarse (100-grit) sandpaper to flatten the seams, then progress to finer grits for a polished finish.
Step 2: Assembling the Frame
Cut the 3 1/2″ pine boards to create the side rails and aprons for the table frame. Use the lauan plywood to form the internal base, which will help stabilize the table and create storage space if needed. Attach the pieces with wood glue and finishing nails for a seamless look.
For added durability, secure the frame with #10 screws and reinforce the corners using clamps during assembly.
Step 3: Shaping the Edges
Use a router with a 3/8″ round-over bit to soften the edges of the tabletop and frame. This step adds to the signature curves that characterize mid century modern coffee table, giving the piece a refined and professional appearance.
Step 4: Sanding and Staining
Sand the entire table thoroughly, progressing through sandpaper grits from 150 to 320. This ensures a smooth, even surface ready for staining. Choose a stain color that matches the mid-century aesthetic, such as walnut or teak. Apply the stain with a clean cloth or brush, allowing it to penetrate the wood before wiping off excess.
Once the stain is dry, seal the table with a satin polyurethane finish for a subtle sheen and long-lasting protection.
Step 5: Attaching the Legs
Install the 12″ angled tubular legs to complete the look of your mid century modern coffee table. Position the legs at the corners of the bottom panel and secure them using screws. Double-check that the legs are aligned for stability.
Final Remarks
Mid century modern coffee table are more than just furniture—they’re timeless works of art that enhance the beauty and functionality of your living space. Whether you invest in a designer piece, opt for a replica, or craft your own, these tables exude sophistication and charm.
By incorporating one into your home, you’re not just embracing a design trend but also paying homage to a movement that revolutionized furniture design. From the iconic Noguchi table to DIY projects tailored to your style, the mid century modern coffee table is a perfect centerpiece that stands the test of time.
FAQs About Mid Century Modern Coffee Table
Q: How do I style a mid century modern coffee table?
A: Pair your table with retro-inspired furniture, such as a low-profile sofa or a sleek armchair. Accessorize with geometric patterns, a statement lamp, and decor in muted tones or bold primary colors to reflect the mid-century vibe.
Q: Can I use a mid century modern coffee table in a contemporary home?
A: Absolutely! The simplicity and elegance of mid-century modern coffee tables make them versatile enough to blend seamlessly with contemporary, Scandinavian, or even industrial decor styles.
Q: What are some common materials used in mid century modern coffee table?
A: These tables often feature wood (teak, walnut, oak), glass, metal, and occasionally materials like rattan or fiberglass. The combination of contrasting textures and materials defines their iconic look.
Q: Are DIY mid century modern coffee table cost-effective?
A: Yes, crafting your own table can be a budget-friendly alternative to purchasing high-end designer pieces. By using quality materials and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a custom piece at a fraction of the cost.
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