Incanda: Your Wood Coffee Table Buying Guide

The coffee table is where life happens. It’s the spot for family game nights, catching up with friends over coffee, or just putting your feet up after a long day. It’s the anchor of your living room and sets the tone for the whole space. But finding that perfect coffee table? It can feel a bit like shopping for the perfect pair of jeans… We promise it doesn’t have to be that hard, though. Besides, if you’ve decided to buy a wooden coffee table, then half the job’s already done!

We asked our friends over at Incanda Furniture – the specialists in beautifully crafted furniture – for help to put this guide together. Read on to find all the tips you need to buy your next wooden coffee table.

Wood is one of the most popular coffee table materials in SA for good reason (and not just because we’ve got great taste). Wood is warm, inviting and versatile enough to suit any interior and just about any décor style. Plus, it gives you plenty bang for your buck – which – let’s be honest – has to go the extra mile these days!

So, let’s get you set up to find your perfect fit in the wooden coffee table department. We’ll cover popular styles and trends, practical tips for choosing a coffee table, and introduce you to five of our favourites from Incanda’s beautiful homegrown wooden coffee table range.

Popular Coffee Table Styles

Your coffee table is a statement piece, reflecting your personal style and setting the vibe for your living room. Whether your taste leans towards rustic charm or sleek minimalism, there’s a wooden coffee table style out there waiting to complete your space.

Rustic Coffee Tables

Are you a nature lover who would rather take a walk in the woods than sit cooped up inside? Rustic coffee tables bring the fresh appeal of the great outdoors into your living room, with that beautiful genuine natural wood. They can be made from various kinds of solid woods, often featuring a natural matte or textured finish. Rustic coffee tables add warmth and charm to your home.

Modern Wood Coffee Tables

With their sleek lines and sophisticated looks, modern coffee tables often combine real wood with glass tops for convenience and easy maintenance. The smooth, minimalist designs match modern fast-paced and time-saving lifestyles. They banish bulk and extra ornamental flourishes to complement modern lounge suites and fit in well in today’s homes.

Industrial Coffee Table Designs

Looking to infuse an urban vibe in your lounge? Industrial coffee tables incorporate other materials like metal, glass or synthetics with solid wood. The strong angles and arty looks are great for split level apartments with angled ceilings, stairs and banisters, or loft style units that make use of interesting architectural shapes and high ventilation spaces.

Traditional Coffee Tables

These beautifully vintage tables with ornate detailing are sure to bring back memories of Grandma’s gorgeous rich Victorian period pieces. They often feature oval or rectangular shapes with rounded and bevelled edges, sometimes with a glass top over the wooden surface. Traditional wood coffee tables will add a touch of elegance and luxury to your living area.

Coffee Table trends we’re loving in 2024

You’ve nailed down your style, now let’s talk trends! 2024 is all about coffee tables that are as good for the planet as they are for your living room. Here are two trends leading the way.

Natural Wood Finishes

One of the biggest perks of choosing a wooden coffee table? The gorgeous natural finishes! From subtle matte to high-gloss glam, there’s a finish to complement every style and enhance the wood’s unique character. Glossy Clear Coat adds a touch of sophistication and shine, perfect for modern or glam living rooms. Matte Finish enhances the wood’s natural beauty with an understated, rustic vibe. Beyond aesthetics, wood finishes also act as a protective layer, shielding your table from wear and tear to ensure it ages gracefully. Plus, you can easily find finishes that complement your existing décor and furniture!

Sustainable and Eco-friendly Designs

In 2024, sustainability is more than just a buzzword – it’s a must-have. Thankfully, you can find stunning wooden coffee tables that are as eco-friendly as they are stylish. Here’s what to look for: Responsibly Sourced Wood: Look for tables crafted from reclaimed, recycled, or sustainably harvested wood. This helps protect our forests and reduces the environmental impact. Eco-Conscious Production: Many manufacturers are now using non-toxic finishes and adhesives, minimizing harmful chemicals in your home and the environment.

Finding the Perfect Wooden Coffee Table: What to Look For

Ready to find your coffee table soulmate? Here’s a breakdown of the key things to consider, answering those common questions that pop up during the coffee table hunt:

How do I pick a coffee table style?

When choosing a coffee table style, remember it should be a reflection of your personal taste and work well with your living room’s overall vibe. If you have a modern, rustic, or traditional space, there are plenty of coffee tables designed to seamlessly match.

But don’t be afraid to get a little creative! If you’re feeling bold, mix and match styles for a look that’s uniquely you. Just remember to tie the look together with a common element like colour or texture.

What type of coffee table goes with a leather couch?

Wood naturally enhances the warm and inviting feel of leather. But don’t shy away from contrasting textures – metal, glass, or moulded plastics can also create a stylish juxtaposition against the smooth texture of leather.

When selecting a design, make sure it aligns with the style of your leather couch, whether it’s modern, traditional, or something in between. And of course, colour coordination is key! Think about how the colours of your coffee table, couch, and other décor elements will work together. A pale wood coffee table can look stunning with a grey leather couch and pops of blue and green in your accents.

What shape coffee table should I buy?

The shape of your coffee table plays a crucial role in the overall flow and functionality of your living room. It should work harmoniously with your seating arrangement. Rectangular coffee tables are a classic choice and work especially well in front of three-seater couches, offering plenty of surface space. Square coffee tables are great for smaller spaces or when you have two-seater couches arranged in a square. If you prefer softer lines and a coffee table that’s easy to move around, an oval shape might be the perfect fit. And for smaller spaces or when you want to create a cozy conversation area with armchairs, a round coffee table can act as a beautiful centrepiece.