10 midcentury modern coffee tables with style and function

Check out our pick of midcentury modern coffee tables – no matter what shape, size or budget, we've got it covered

Two midcentury modern coffee tables on yellow and pink graphic background
(Image credit: Future)

Looking for a midcentury modern coffee tables? Who isn't? After all, who can resist a piece of post-war-inspired furniture with its clean lines, stunning shapes, and durability?

Simple but chic, this design movement doesn't care much for embellishments or intricate details. So you can be sure that this style will look good in most living rooms with no polka dots, stars, florals, or maximalist motifs to detract from a table made from honest and organic materials.

Featuring lots of wood and iron, this style made popular in the '50s and '60s is still very fashionable today. And why wouldn't it be? Mid-century coffee tables are unfussy, uncomplicated, and totally functional - all desirable qualities to counterbalance our complex modern lives. So it makes sense to have a stripped-back design when you're sitting back and sipping your morning java.

We've scoured the net for coffee tables that double up as shelves and ample storage for your sitting room. And when you're not hiding away clutter, you can show off your homewares in style.


10 midcentury modern coffee tables for chic socializing

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Mid-Century Pop-Up Storage Coffee Table, 60"x24", Walnut + White Marble

(Image credit: West Elm)

1. West Elm midcentury pop-up walnut and white marble coffee table

Table: W48" x D24" x H17.4" | Colour options: 2
This midcentury-inspired lift-top coffee table features a pop-up top to reveal hidden storage space. Its sustainably-sourced wood frame (in either walnut or a mix of dark mineral kiln-dried eucalyptus and Acacia) is complemented by a luxury marble slab top for additional shelving space – perfect for stowing paperbacks for your book club, or Real Homes magazines of course.

Because of the organic nature of both the wood and marble components, you can rest assured that your furniture purchase will be unique and no two pieces will be the same color or have the same veining.


Naya Pop-Up Coffee Table

(Image credit: Urban Outfitters)

2. Urban Outfitters Naya Pop-Up Coffee Table

Table: W25 x L138 x H17 in | Colour options: 1
If you want a family-friendly, midcentury coffee table without the formality – this is the model for you. This wide coffee table is made from a mix of Acacia and eucalyptus wood features built-in storage with a lift-up top that hinges outward. Perfect for home office setups to hold your laptop, or even as a snack tray for movie nights in with loved ones. Don't worry about the sticky popcorn or sweets as this wipe-clean table is more resilient than you think! Despite its durability, the faceted detailing on the sides makes this table look so much more expensive than it is.


 

Mindful Living Rustic Farmhouse Mid Century Modern Fusion Mango Wood Top and Iron Hairpin Legs Chevron Pattern Rectangular Accent Coffee Table, Beige

(Image credit: Target)

3. Mindful Living rustic farmhouse midcentury modern fusion accent coffee table

Table: H5 x W25 in | Colour options: 1
Want to dabble in a bit of midcentury modern style? This Mindful Living Rustic Mid Century Mango Wood and Iron Chevron Coffee Table mixes this classic trend with a rustic modern farmhouse aesthetic. Crafted from sustainably-sourced mango wood and solid but slimline iron hairpin legs, it also comes with a chevron pattern to add interest.


Purl rotating coffee table by CB2

(Image credit: CB2)

4. CB2 Purl rotating coffee table

Table: H14 X D45.5 in | Colour options: 1
Looking for a midcentury modern coffee table that'll turn heads? Look no further.
A CB2-exclusive, this round table is made from Mappa burl wood veneer for touch of Italy in your interior space. This Bellissimo design features one large push-to-open drawer to stash away remotes and other living room accessories. More amazingly, however, it has a round swivel base allowing it to rotate 360 degrees. Consider this storage coffee table the Lazy Susan of your lounge.


A glass top wood base coffee table with book storage

(Image credit: Castlery)

5. Castlery Cupid Coffee Table

Table: W39.3 x D39.3 x H13.3 in  | Color options: 1
Roses are red, violets are blue, we're in love with this coffee table, and we think you will be too! Romantic names aside, this American Walnut Veneer wood and glass table has a trio of tremendous qualities. It has a strong structural base, is perfect for storage, and is a work of art in itself. What's not to love? But don't fall for its softly -softly aesthetic, as the tempered glass has a maximum bearing support of up to 55 lbs!


Quillen Marquetry Coffee Table

(Image credit: Anthropologie)

6. Anthropologie Quillen Marquetry coffee table

Table: 16"H, 36" diameter | Color options: 1
Featuring a mesmerizing marquetry top and luxury brushed brass base, this elegant, octagonal, mid century modern coffee table is the perfect fusion of classic, artisan craftsmanship and contemporary design. We can't get over the distinct starburst pattern in the center of the table, and the chevron-like graining on the table's edges.


West Elm Marcio walnut wood and tempered glass table

(Image credit: West Elm)

7. West Elm Marcio coffee table

Table: | Color options: 1
Want to spice up your sitting room? Take inspo from Brazillian midcentury modern design. Crafted of sustainably sourced, FSC®-certified wood, this unusually-shaped base will catch the eye of your guests. Its open design makes it the perfect place to display your coffee table books. The shape even mimics the reclining position we're in while snuggled up on the sofa.


Chadwick Mid-Century Coffee Table

(Image credit: West Elm)

8. West Elm Chadwick mid-century coffee table

Table: W48 x D22 x H16 in | Color options: 1
If you think mid-century modern furniture won't suit your bohemian or Scandi living room – think again. Fusing quintessential qualities including rounded edges and tapered legs, with a light, textured woven shelf, this Chadwick coffee table by West Elm is a style chameleon that would sit well in many living rooms.


Peri midcentury modern coffee table

(Image credit: Castlery)

9. Castlery Peri coffee table

Table: W47.2 x D27.5 x H11.8 in | Colors available: 1
Not all low-level furniture needs to be slubby, so if you're looking for something simple and elegant that still has structure, consider the Peri coffee table from Castlery. This rounded rectangle design, made from Walnut wood veneer, is perfect for children playing board games on a comfy rug or paired with Japanese Zaisu chairs.


Mid Century Geometric 122 Coffee Table by The Old Art Studio

(Image credit: Apt2b)

10. Mid Century Geometric 122 Coffee Table by The Old Art Studio

Looking to make a statement in an otherwise neutral living room?  Though minimalist in structure, the unique geometric artwork will grab your attention. This'll suit a multitude of modern and traditional spaces including a vintage lounge or Scandi sitting room. Style with primary-colored accessories in this space to pay homage to the Bauhaus era.


How to style a mid-century modern coffee table

Mid Century Modern Coffee Table with Faux Marble

(Image credit: iamFy)

'High-quality wood is the go-to material for mid-century modern style.' says Victoria Atkin, co-founder, Atkin & Thyme.

'It helps to ground the scheme in nature and calls back to the teak synonymous with the original era. Use this material for tables, desks, and storage pieces to give a heritage touch. Mix and match different styles of wood when coordinating drawers, side tables, media units, or shelving. This will create a sense of uniqueness and an informal feel.'

'Mid-century is defined by its clean, well-designed lines and timeless appeal. Choose furniture pieces that have a sleek presence with smooth lines and pair with abstract accessories or artwork for contrast and interest.'

'Mid-century modern has a playful side. Use contrasting materials such as wood and marble, and don’t forget to add in pattern and color. Pared-back rooms can be warmed using hallmark designs such as geometrics, and if the classic retro tones of mustard and orange seem too overpowering, take it back to nature with blues and greens.'

Christina Chrysostomou
Former acting head ecommerce editor

Hi, I'm the former acting head ecommerce editor at Real Homes. Prior to working for the Future plc family, I've worked on a number of consumer events including the Ideal Home Show, Grand Designs Live, and Good Homes Magazine. With a first class degree from Keele University, and a plethora of experience in digital marketing, editorial, and social media, I have an eye for what should be in your shopping basket and have gone through the internal customer advisor accreditation process.