Many people think that coffee tables started life in the 1920's but they go back a lot further than that. They were very common in the Ottoman Empire - usually found in tea gardens. Coffee houses first became popular in the 1600's. The first one in London was opened in 1652 and Boston's first was in 1670.

They enjoyed a resurgence of popularity after the first world war - but not as a stand-alone item. Suites of matching furniture were the most popular and the coffee table was simply one item in the set. However, this humble table has broken free and now stands on its own merits.

How To Choose A Coffee Table That's Right For You

The first thing to consider is what other furniture you have in the living room.

If you prefer a traditional style, there are plenty of tables to choose from. You may decide on a wooden one to coordinate with existing wood furniture. Another traditional look is a glass table top sitting in a brass or gilded base. Upholstered ottomans are extremely popular now as they can act as a coffee table or a low seat to pull near to the fire.

People often enjoy creating their own traditional style table from reclaimed materials such as a beautiful wrought iron gate, an old wooden front door, or old wooden floor boards.

If you prefer a modern look, you'll be spoilt for choice. Cubes made from wood, leather, metal, or plexiglass are very popular now. Other materials like stone and ceramics can look very chic and sophisticated. Or you could choose a design classic like the Noguchi Coffee Table.

Tips On Choosing A Coffee Table

1. To get an appropriate size, allow at least 15 inches between the sofa and the coffee table.

2. When in doubt, it's better to have one that's too big rather than too small.

3. Coffee tables are usually a standard 16 inches high but some modern ones can be as low as 11 inches.

4. Are people likely to put their feet up on it? If they are, a wooden or upholstered one will be more suitable than a glass top or a delicate surface like a walnut veneer.

5. If your living room is small, a glass topped coffee table allows the light through and won't 'close in' the space as much as a solid one. If you have a particularly beautiful carpet, a glass topped table will help to show it off.

6. If your sofa has skirted covers, a 'leggy' coffee table looks great.

7. If your sofa has legs, go for a 'block' table. In these last two examples, opposites enhance each other.

8. The table should ideally be the same height as the seat of the sofa.

9. One beautiful item looks stunning on a coffee table. This could be a vase of flowers, a beautiful glass bowl, a wooden bowl filled with pebbles or a stack of witty coffee table books.

10. Don't overcrowd the table or you'll have nowhere to put your coffee! To easily keep it clutter-free, put a decorative basket or trunk underneath the coffee table for a quick clear-up. You can sort through it and put the stuff away later!