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jbnla

need coffee table ideas

13 years ago
last modified: 13 years ago
Here is my living room so far. In a couple of months it will be painted white, the wall behind the sofa will have the wallpaper in the attached image (squares), and the wall you cannot see opposite the sofa will have a built in TV and daybed (it is a recessed space that currently has a wet bar; ripping that out to replace with TV, some shelving/storage, and fairly large seat that isn't completely designed yet - but will be fairly simple, either painted white wood or stained walnut).

Can't figure out what kind of coffee table to use. On one hand I want glass to keep things somewhat airy, on the other, a lot of people come here to watch movies so something to put your feet on might be good. As for budget, always prefer the cheapest but if it is worth an investment, I'll save until it happens. Thanks.

Comments (65)

  • 13 years ago
    I am smiling, because now all I can envision is the coffee flipping.
    jbnla thanked studio10001
  • 13 years ago
    last modified: 13 years ago
    jbnla thanked studio10001
  • 13 years ago
    Nice, love wall paper. Coffee table mid century modern. That's the vibe in room.
    jbnla thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
  • 13 years ago
    I like the eBay table you picked.
  • 13 years ago
    I love your rug and how it ties in with the lounge chairs and the sofa!

    You have a lot of choices as everyone gave you great ideas. Don't forget about the fireplace. It looks a little out of place. Paint it black, put a nice tall vase on the mantel and a large piece of art. I recently purchased several art pieces in my kids's rooms on amazon.com for less than $10 each, size 24x36. I then went to a craft store (like Michael's) for an inexpensive frame. To finish it off, put a tall vase or candles on the mantel. Or, you can also put a mirror.

    In addition, I love the bench that was posted above by shortped. You can put the bench by the window to use up that space and when people come over you can move it and use it as a foot rest for everyone on the couch.
    jbnla thanked R Robulock
  • 13 years ago
    Love the Noguchi perfect table. What about a lucite waterfall edge table like the one at CB2?
    jbnla thanked Laura
  • 13 years ago
    What struck me when I saw your photo was the awesome rug. I would hate to cover up that cool pattern, and the colors pull the whole room together, so I would go with a glass table. Preferably round or amoeba-like, like the noguchi as mentioned. Round or similar would repeat/complement the roundness of the rug pattern. If your guests remove shoes, stocking feet shouldn't be too hard on it. Love your choice of chairs and sofa, too. Overall, great-looking space!
    jbnla thanked cattaill
  • 13 years ago
    I, too, think lucite would be a great alternative. I have found fabricators that will work with you on style and thickness for a custom size especially for your place. Look local, on eBay or etsy.
    jbnla thanked dclostboy
  • 13 years ago
    I've been looking for a rug with orange, brown and cream for over a year. I love yours! Where did you get it?
    jbnla thanked sandecox
  • 13 years ago
    I also love your carpet and agree with suggestions of glass or Lucite so you don't cover the pattern.
    jbnla thanked judygilpin
  • 13 years ago
    I bought the rug "on sale" at Joss & Main (basically an online clearing house for Wayfair, etc.) It pops up time and again so sign up and keep an eye out. I originally bought it because it is indoor/outdoor (you can hose it off) and wanted it as a training rug for my dog before I bought something expensive. But now I might keep it.
  • 13 years ago
    Not cheap but these could work: http://www.westelm.com/products/cross-spindle-coffee-table-g838/?pkey=e|coffee+table|24|best|0|1|24||14&cm_src=PRODUCTSEARCH||NoFacet-_-NoFacet-_-Featured Coffee Table-_-

    http://www.cb2.com/ember-coffee-table/s167649
    jbnla thanked spatialthinking
  • 13 years ago
    World Market - Will bring in your fireplace and also you can put cool stuff under the glass in the drawers that highlight your decor! Cool looking room, by the way.
    jbnla thanked debster88
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I would try and go with something unexpected on the coffee table. How about Hollywood Regency-esque? I think glass is actually perfect for for entertaining. Although most of the photos I have attached are rectangular, U think square or round would be good. I think I would also, as carbary said, move the two small chairs together on the side opposite to the fireplace and add a larger lounge chair where you had the single chair.
    jbnla thanked Mark Radcliff interior
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Here's more.
    jbnla thanked Mark Radcliff interior
  • 13 years ago
    Along with almost everyone, I too, love the rug. The room reminds me of my childhood in the late 50s/early 60s. I know you're looking for suggestions for anything but the coffee table, but I felt I had to add a couple of two-bit observations. For me, the room has way too many small, insignificant items. Things like the small table next to the chair, with the small plant and tray on it. The drum table under the window with what look like books on top, the tiny picture on the window ledge, the small chair next to the drum, the small items on the fireplace and the small picture above it, the group of small circles above the sofa, the smallish circles on the rug. Get the picture? I'd love to see a large picture/painting above the sofa for one. All other items need to be removed or up-sized. For balance you need a few chunky items.

    When I first saw the room my first impression was that you had just plunked down all the above items and were in the process of removing them.

    As for the coffee table? I agree with another poster that it's a shame to cover up the rug but at the same time adding a glass topped table would not do the room justice. Back when the sofa and chairs were "in" an oval or round table was the norm. I'd love to see an oval table in black to match the legs on the chairs (or is that dark brown? I can't tell. Not a wide oval, but a slim line that wouldn't hide too much of the rug.

    The fireplace? I've seen the brass strips painted and it works great. I'd surely want to cover those babies. Maybe painting the fireplace, or part of it, in the same colour as the chairs. Leave a bit of white framing around it or somewhere inside, to match the piping in the chairs.

    For some reason I can clearly see a vision for this great room and would love to see pictures of the dining area as well. What a great project.
    jbnla thanked Suzanna Sebesteny
  • 13 years ago
    Mark Radcliff and carbary, attaching a photo that shows the console table behind the orange chair. If I move the two orange chairs next to each other, can use it as back-up to them? Now, it sort of acts as a marker for the end of the living space and beginning of the dining space, and it works as a sideboard in a pinch). Also, "lounge chair." I know I could have fun with that but give me some parameters on fabric color. I'm hesitant to bring anything else into this room. (Granted, I have a thing for color and juxtaposition, but I've made some hideous mistakes in the past.)
  • 13 years ago
    Same here. I am loving the rug and would hate to cover it up. How about some square tables that could be moved around and used for foot rest when needed or pushed together to form table? Like the vibe and style you have so far!
    jbnla thanked beesknees2260
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I think the two orange chairs are great against the console. For the upholstered lounge chair, I would do a large print fabric in another color/colors from the rug.

    I have always liked antique brass because of it's warmth. It is very big now in decorating.
    jbnla thanked Mark Radcliff interior
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I design Mid-Mod furniture but sometimes it's a little hard to find comfort and function in the style. That's why I like to mix periods and styles and go just a little eclectic instead of purist MidMod. Take a look at these for ideas to add some PING-ZANG! The one that stands out for me with your function is the Live Edge slab with Hairpin legs. No two can ever be the same and you get Mod with Nature - My favorite!
    jbnla thanked Corl Design
  • 13 years ago
    I also like the idea of the 2 orange chairs against the console. However, I would be very careful in the choice of fabric for the larger lounge chair. I'd be more inclined to do a wide stripe in the colors of the rug. A large print could fight with the rug taking away a cohesive look.

    I also agree with Suzanna S. who suggested fewer, but larger, bolder accessories.
    jbnla thanked judygilpin
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Here is a layered glass table I just completed called the STEN table.
    STEN glass tables · More Info
    jbnla thanked FINNE Architects
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Couple more ideas - Hair on HIde Leather to add some Wild Nature and reclaimed, dyed leathers -
    jbnla thanked Corl Design
  • 13 years ago
    I would remove all small items from mantel, floor. Like thing by window. Use tall brass candlesticks on end of firepl mantel a big pic n FP in the orange, go modern art. Over sofa same thing need art not metal piece. Put oth chairs together looking at fireplace. Can you put that sofa table in dining wall? The coffee table you picked above was nice. Or go teak wood oval, in mid century. Add a big palm by firepl. Or a fabric bench along wall under window. A burnt orange velvet fabric.
    jbnla thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
  • 13 years ago
    Put gray woven fabric panels on window ends only.
    jbnla thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
  • 13 years ago
    Put gold side table on end of sofa. Add tall dark brown base and white shade drum style.
    jbnla thanked Nancy Travisinteriors
  • 13 years ago
    I love your couch and the wall paper will look amazing. If you want glam, I would try to find a gold framed glass coffee table. Possibly a bamboo look to it. That's very on trend right now. If you're the more casual type, go with an oversized ottoman. Since your rug is bold in pattern, I would stick to a solid color fabric like the turquoise color that's in your rug. And if you don't mind me saying, you should remove the small items on your fireplace and hang a large piece of art there. And I would move the glass table in front of the window with a couple of lamps, add curtains and have the two orange colored chairs beside each other with your small table in the middle to set your drinks on. I would add some throw cushions to your couch. I love your choices in furniture and color combinations!
    jbnla thanked carinasoares
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    This is a fun true mid century table that really gives your "new" mid century theme some old school creed. Brings in your blues from your carpet and matches the legs on your side table. Lightens up the room a little. Brings a little of the star burst pattern in that you see in your wall hanging behind the sofa. Love this vintage Etsy table!
    http://www.etsy.com/listing/56554662/eliptikal-coffee-table-eames-era-mid?ref=sr_gallery_28&ga_search_query=mid+century+coffee+table&ga_page=7&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery
    jbnla thanked Kristi Spouse Interiors
  • 13 years ago
    I think one of the vintage 50's type swivel chairs in the place of the current orange chair would be nice. It could turn to the fire or back. Here is a picture but I think this one needs fun fabric with a skirt. Your wall paper has cubes so I would look for something that brings that into the room.
    jbnla thanked Connie Carbary
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    How about something custom and alive? We ship from Seattle to anywhere.
    jbnla thanked NK Woodworking
  • 13 years ago
    Love the sofa and the rug! Where did you get them??? I agree with a glass table to show the rug pattern. Good suggestion was the Noguchi table! A classic piece! Great job!
    jbnla thanked barbpierce
  • 13 years ago
    Lovely room, great mid century style without it looking like a show home, looks like a comfy place to be. Glass would look great but daily cleaning required! You can buy cheap hairpin legs on stay and top them with a lacquered ply or a vintage tiled ply or an old teak shelf to fit in with the era. Very cheap and unique! Happy 'put your feet up' movie night with whatever you choose.
    jbnla thanked I vivien Robertson
  • 13 years ago
    I too really like the carpet and your choice of orange chairs. I have a coffee table that I found at a church sale that would suit your space.....of course findiNg a similar one could prove a bit of a challenge. Definitely go with something round as others have suggested. Mine is mid century teak. You may be able to find a dining size one that you could trim the legs down....I really love the size of mine for company sharing apps etc..
    jbnla thanked hudson1122
  • 13 years ago
    Here are a bunch of ideas, all different in style.
    http://goodshomedesign.com/?s=coffee+table&x=10&y=6
    jbnla thanked Laurie
  • 13 years ago
    Hudson1122
    I've found FAB tables at garage sales! Good for you. One was a round dining room table my husband cut the legs down and the other was round mid-century modern. I sanded them, re-stained them, polyurethaned the tops and painted the legs. They look beautiful and people ask me about them or compliment them when they come in. One was $8 and one was $12 plus the supplies at lowes. I'm a newbie re-finisher too. Shop your neighborhood!
    jbnla thanked dawnbc1
  • 13 years ago
    Travois interiors had the best ideas! Good luck!
    jbnla thanked shortped
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I m thinking you have couple of pieces with glass top and you can give your space variety since this piece would be center piece you can go with wooden coffee table Oak would go with your furniture how much is your budget?I m thinking metal frame and wooden top would go with your design.
    jbnla thanked N.O.R,LLC
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I've always liked antique blanket chests for a coffee table. Adds character and storage and of course, does not look like a coffee table. Add a tray of some sort for candles.. and little coasters for drinks if the finish is not water resistant. ( and it shouldn't be ) Check out antique shops. I also found an old drop leaf table that someone had cut the legs off of.. ( to the height of the leaf when dropped ) Painted it black gloss and then you could open the leaves if you need more space.
    jbnla thanked hurst visual solutions
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    I would consider pulling the chair back to the window next to the fireplace which would allow the fireplace to be part of the space. I then would look for a round wooden coffee table to be placed in front of the couch. The circular shape would coincide with the rug pattern and the circular baskets on wall.
    jbnla thanked Abode Mode
  • 13 years ago
    @barbpierce: the sofa is from ThriveFurniture.com, the fabric is Delight Palladium. Rug found on Joss & Main, but you can probably find it on Wayfair or Overstock as well.
  • 13 years ago
    I think the noguchi table it's the obvious choice, but since you want something sturdier I recommend the Nelson bench. You can put your feet up, use it as additional seating for entertainment . it's very light anc fits the mcm vibe of your space.
    jbnla thanked judithramos80
  • 13 years ago
    Noguchi table is the only choice I think.
    jbnla thanked mcmlover
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    How about a custom coffee table? Thought this coffee table would look great in your space!
    jbnla thanked JAGOLI
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Although, I love the Noguchi table, I think it is overdone and a little too expected.
    jbnla thanked Mark Radcliff interior
  • 13 years ago
    Interesting. I see it as minimal because of the glass and it would work with the MC style you have going. . A heavy table will weight down the space. I think it should be a glass table regardless of which you decide on. I think it will keep the space light and bright. Love the rug.
    jbnla thanked mcmlover
  • PRO
    13 years ago
    Hey Mark Radcliff! Thank God someone else believes these overused, overpriced iconic pieces are getting a little expected! Nothing new under the sun but there is some cool new stuff out here and if it's custom, it's one of a kind too, just for you and no one else. LIVE VIVA DIFFERENce!
    jbnla thanked Corl Design
  • 13 years ago
    Ron you are so right!!! Custom is art. Personal and one of a kind and sometimes not more expensive than other choices
    jbnla thanked Connie Carbary
  • 13 years ago
    Kids, thank you all! I'm a bit overwhelmed by all of the ideas, and still processing them, but so grateful for your input. It will take me some time (probably weeks) to come to any decisions, but when I do, I will post a photo. JB
  • 12 years ago
    please do post pic's jbnla. we would love to see what you decide on.
    jbnla thanked Brenda
  • 12 years ago
    Brenda, thanks for the reminder; I had forgotten about this. Everything is in great flux right now but I'll try to get a shot of the new arrangement and post it. Demolition starts tomorrow; there will be dust. I have no idea at this point if we will get everything painted before Xmas. I only decided on a coffee table 2 weeks ago (I'm so slow to make decisions) and now that it's here, I'm not so sure about it. But will live with it for awhile and see. Attaching a stock photo of it now; will post a picture of it in the space later. JB