Traditionally, a coffee table was designed to be extended, low and always placed in front of a sofa or upholstered chairs to put beverages, magazines, books, decorative objects, and other small items — even donuts on National Donut Day.
With modern innovations, the design and use of the coffee table have evolved, but its purpose remains the same. Homeowners have moved the coffee table from the front of the couch to the bedroom or in anywhere in the home. Designers added cabinets and drawers to the original design for extra storage and played with a variety of materials — metal, glass, and leather – instead of the conventional wood.
One thing that hasn’t changed is its purpose. Coffee tables were used to inspire conviviality and light conversation, hence the term “gather ’round the coffee table.”
We thought about Sean Dix’s retro Sputnik series when we created the Mio Coffee Table, the newest piece in our line of living room decor. Its tapered legs are carved out of solid beech wood, giving this table a futuristic edge. A discus top makes our updated version uber-stylish and pays homage to the mid-century modern trend of the 1950’s and 1560’s.
A small rim keeps any small floral arrangements or decorative books from sliding to the side. Try layering a few together with some side tables to break up a room. Even placing a few trinkets and home accessories to add color or panache to a space.
