22 Design-Forward Coffee Tables to Suit Even the Smallest Spaces

A coffee table is a surprisingly utilitarian piece of furniture. Sure, you might place one in front of your couch because it’s pretty or you liked the way it accentuated your décor. But soon enough it will become your go-to wine glass holder, your favorite display shelf, and the keeper of your most prized reading material (or at least your prettiest). It may even serve as a dining table from time to time. All living rooms deserve a great coffee table, no matter how small. So for the more diminutive living areas, we’ve gathered 22 great options to suit all styles and spaces, from nesting tables to artful accents with sneaky storage.

Feature image by Michelle Nash.

Image by Stephen Karlisch

The Best Circular Coffee Tables for Small Spaces

The following clean, simple tables pack their impact up top, with plenty of room for feet or four-legged friends below.

Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.

Leanne Ford’s signature laid-back, white-on-white aesthetic finds its sturdiest form in this hardworking indoor/outdoor table. 

This curved beauty makes the most of its compact structure—and perfectly suits this year’s curved trend.

The simple statement has just enough square footage for a vase of flowers and a flickering candle.

Image by Kate Zimmerman Turpin

The Best Narrow Coffee Tables

When width is a worry in your small space, keep it on the straight and narrow.

This modern beauty layers up to make the most of its petite, 20-inch width.

With a sleek silhouette, brass accents, and a nifty little drawer (perfect for remotes), this streamlined coffee table adds plenty of glam without dominating the space.

Complete the mid-century modern living area of your dreams with this smartly-sized addition.

A little woven table with big Laurel Canyon vibes.

The Best Built-In Storage Coffee Tables

When it comes to small spaces, nothing is more valuable than sneaky storage. The following pieces do it brilliantly—perfect blends of style and function.

We love a modern Blu Dot moment, especially when it’s as utilitarian as this solid acacia wood gem.

Thanks to some unexpected storage areas and the magic of levers, this competitively priced beauty doubles as a cozy workspace.

Armed with not one but two push-to-open drawers, this sturdy workhorse offers the slickest of sneaky storage.

A playful way to add storage from the modern minds at Kartell, this little wonder gleams when placed outdoors.

The chicest blend of storage and organization we’ve seen in a coffee table yet.

All coffee tables eventually become a tray at some point. This one embraces it.

Display what you want and hide what you want thanks to this mid-century-inspired stunner’s sliding slat.

Image by Stephen Karlisch

The Best Artful Accents

A coffee table may not seem like a place to make a bold statement, but allow these unique picks to make their case.

These cheeky little tables by modernist Italian architect Gaetano Pesce double as killer conversation starters.

With a name like “Splat,” this funky little table could add whimsy to any aesthetic. 

Topped with handcrafted ceramic tiles, this vintage-inspired piece makes a big impact (with a small footprint) whether indoors or patio side.

Image by Michelle Nash

The Best Nesting Coffee Tables

As versatile as they are striking, these coffee table duos can shrink or expand depending on your needs.

We love the vintage look of these slim nesting tables and the durable aluminum tops that create a charming patina.

Create a versatile, mid-century modern scene with bold lines and natural rattan.

The Best Textile Coffee Tables for Small Spaces

More ottoman than coffee table, our choices for textural touches add just enough surface area to serve as a stylish footrest.

Crafted with ethically sourced leather from Portugal, these padded ottomans (available in caramel, olive, or natural) are gorgeous on their own but can be made even more utilitarian when topped with a tray.

Choose a size that serves you, or nest the modern accent pieces (inspired by river stones) for a sculptural display.

Take It Outside—10 Gorgeous Outdoor Tables to Inspire Al Fresco Season

There’s something magical that happens when you gather friends and family around a beautifully-set table. It’s the good conversation and lovingly crafted meal, yes—but it’s also the alchemy of table linens, glassware, and dishes that were chosen with care. And with al fresco dining season in full swing, it’s the perfect time to get inspired by our best outdoor table settings so you can soak up the joy to its fullest. With a few tips under your belt, you might be surprised by how simple it is to craft your dream table—no stress required.

From decor ideas to practical tips, these outdoor table settings will help you make your outdoor dining experience a feast for all the senses.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

Outdoor Table Settings: Your Go-To Guide

Whether you’re hosting a garden party, celebratory brunch, or simply enjoying a meal under the open sky, you can count on one thing to bring it all together: outdoor table settings. These table settings play a crucial role in setting the mood and giving your guests (and yourself) the best dining experience possible.

To lead the way, we’ve rounded up a few of Camille’s expertly-designed tables alongside those crafted by tastemakers we’ve accompanied over the years. With these tablescapes as inspiration, you’ll have everything you need to set your own dreamy table. So, pour yourself a glass of rosé, pull up a chair, and slip into design paradise as we uncover how to turn your backyard into the ultimate dining oasis.

How to Set an Outdoor Table

When it comes time to set your outdoor table, it’s important to pay attention to your design preferences. You may be all about the neutrals, or love to weave in color to your table. Whichever you prefer, you’ll find that nature offers the perfect canvas for both. Also, depending on the occasion and/or meal, you might find yourself shooting for a formal table setting or something more casual. Whichever the occasion calls for, you can create a stunning tablescape that’s appropriate and perfectly in tune with the celebration at hand. And no matter what, you can rest easy knowing that everything tastes better outdoors—and that’s a fact. With these outdoor table settings inspiring your own creations, you’re totally equipped to meet all your outdoor hosting needs in style.

1. Incorporate Nature’s Beauty

When dining outside, why not utilize what’s around you? From flowers to branches and everything in between, incorporating a bit of your surroundings is an easy way to create a gorgeous table that feels organic. Grab some flowers from the garden for your centerpiece or clip a few fresh herbs to lay over each napkin to incorporate that organic beauty into your table.

2. Incorporate Clay-Colored Elements

For a desert-inspired look, weaving in natural clay colors makes for a casually cool table that’s elevated all the same. You can do this by using a linen tablecloth, napkins, or ceramics that marry neutral hues with muted color in the most beautiful way.

More inspiration: A desert dinner party with Alison Carroll

3. Make It a Grazing Table

For a gathering that’s all about the mingling, creating a grazing table is the perfect way to encourage casual conversation. Instead of a sit down dinner, this aperitif-style table is a fun change of pace for your guests that will allow them to make the rounds without any obstacles. Load your table with lots of floral arrangements, grab-and-go menu items, and handcrafted ceramics and flatware for your guests to use at their own speed.

More inspiration: Ajiri Aki’s backyard apéro book party

4. Let Neutrals Lead the Way

A neutral color palette is always fit for the outdoors. By keeping your colors muted, you’re allowing space for the beautiful colors of the outdoors to shine through. Whites fare really well here alongside a more demure base to keep things from being too stark. From there, you can weave in some color in the form of flowers, fruits, herbs—you name it. It’s all about the natural beauty.

5. Light It Up

String lights are not going away anytime soon and for good reason! They elevate any outdoor space and are so simple to incorporate. Aligning your table under the lights means you get to reap the benefits of a candlelit dinner without having to light any candles. It’s mood lighting, reimagined.

6. Go Fruit-Forward

How stunning is that vine? Not only does it add a gorgeous pop of color, but it’s a statement centerpiece that really defines the table. It’s natural, full of life, and can be plucked straight from the garden to the table. Plus, it’s a guaranteed conversation starter.

More inspiration: A friendsgiving brunch with Sweet Laurel Bakery

7. Rustic Beauty

When it comes to outdoor table settings, you can never go wrong with a few rustic elements that feel home-y and nostalgic. In this case, oil lanterns and artisanal furniture pieces introduce a familiarity to the table that you can’t beat.

More inspiration: An outdoor gathering with Walden Retreats

8. Simplify Your Settings

There’s no rule book that says you always have to use the traditional table setting elements. In fact, simplifying your table can often make your gathering more approachable for you and your guests. Something as simple as omitting a placemat can make your table feel more relaxed and casual.

9. Monochromatic Magic

It may seem counterintuitive to attribute monochromatic elements to making your colors shine, but that’s exactly what’s going on here. If you love a pop of color but don’t want to clash with nature’s colors around you, give each of your colors a buddy. Here, white chairs match a white tablecloth—lending way for those stunning orange flowers to take the spotlight. If you put your mind to it, it’s super easy to implement.

More inspiration: Backyard lunch with Aran Goyoaga

10. Stack Your Silverware

For an outdoor table, I love a napkin bundle that encases everything you need. Set on top of the plate, the flatware and napkin are both in one place, ready to use. It’s a more casual setting that feels on par with the outdoor table setting. Plus, it’s easier on you as the table setter to not have to worry about the alignment and spacing of the silverware. A win-win, if you will.

More inspiration: A garden-to-table lunch with Camilla Marcus

With your outdoor table set, all you need now is some menu inspiration! Check out our favorite outdoor cooking recipes for the perfect al fresco meal.

Outdoor Table Settings