Imagine stepping into a beach house, where the coastal ambiance envelops you in a serene atmosphere. It’s that perfect blend of weathered furniture, airy fabrics, and accents of oceanic blues and greens that effortlessly evoke a “vacation mode: on” feeling. Amidst these elements, one pivotal piece stands out – the coastal coffee table. With its driftwood or whitewashed finish, this table becomes the focal point, creating an inviting space to unwind with your favorite beach read.

If you aspire to infuse the tranquil essence of the seaside directly into your living room, this buyer’s guide to coastal coffee tables is your essential companion. Throughout this guide, we will navigate alongside DeCasa Collections to enveil the diverse landscape of materials, shapes, and styles, empowering you to discover the perfect match for your space. So, immerse yourself in oceanic inspiration as we embark on this journey to enhance your home’s coastal charm.

What Makes a Coffee Table “Coastal Style”?

The coastal style, or beach house chic, is all about relaxed, laid-back living. For coffee tables, that means natural, weathered materials, light and airy designs, and a sense of casual elegance. Some hallmarks of the coastal coffee table style include:

• Driftwood: There’s nothing quite like salvaged wood from the sea. Driftwood coffee tables made of teak, oak, and pine are popular, with the wood bleached by the sun and surf into a soft, silvery gray.
• Rattan and wicker: Natural fibers like rattan, wicker, and sea grass are coastal classics. Coffee tables comprising these materials have an artisanal, handcrafted feel and let the breeze flow through.o
• Glass: Beveled glass, tempered glass, and glass topped with shells or starfish are common in beach house decor. Glass coffee tables feel open and airy, reflecting light and visually expanding the space.
• Weathered wood: Coffee tables made of reclaimed, whitewashed, or distressed wood appear naturally aged to suit the coastal aesthetic. Teak, oak, pine, and acacia are durable, weather-resistant woods that stand up to coastal climates.
• Conch shells, coral, and netting: For a decorative touch, look for coffee tables featuring conch shells, pieces of coral, fishing nets, or other nautical elements and natural materials from the sea.
• White and pastel colors: Crisp white, seafoam green, sandy beige, sky blue – coastal color palettes reflect colors of the ocean and beach. Coffee tables in these light, bright hues blend seamlessly into a beach house-style room.
• Slatted, ladder-style construction: Some coastal coffee tables have a slatted wood or rattan construction, with spaced slats giving an open, ladder-like appearance. This design allows sea breezes to flow freely around the table.

Top Materials for Coastal Coffee Tables

When it comes to coastal style, natural and weathered materials reign supreme. For coffee tables, the top options are:

Wood

Driftwood, reclaimed wood, and distressed wood all evoke a beachy vibe. Teak, pine, oak, and acacia are popular choices. Their warm tones and rustic textures perfectly complement the coastal decor. If real wood isn’t in the budget, laminates that mimic the look of weathered wood also work well.

Rattan and Wicker

Lightweight, airy rattan and wicker are quintessential coastal materials. They bring a casual, breezy feel and come in tan, gray, and white tones that pair perfectly with coastal color palettes. While natural rattan and wicker can be high maintenance, all-weather synthetic versions are low-fuss, durable alternatives.

Concrete

Concrete may seem unusual for a coastal coffee table, but its raw, organic texture works surprisingly well for the style. They often have a smooth, rounded shape that suggests the sea and sand. Neutral gray concrete provides a solid base that grounds more colorful coastal decor.

Glass

For a lighter, airier look, glass is an ideal coffee table top material for beach house style. Clear or frosted glass allows the beauty of the base material to show through. Etched or patterned glass adds a subtle texture and visual interest. Just be aware that glass tops may require more frequent dusting and wiping down.

The Best Coastal Coffee Table Shapes and Sizes

When shopping for a coastal coffee table, the shape and size you choose will depend greatly on your space and decorating style. Round, square, or rectangular tables in natural wood or rattan are all great options for a beach house living room.

Round Coffee Tables

A round coffee table is a classic choice that suits most decorating styles. Round tables with 36 to 48 inches diameter pair well with sectional sofas and create an open, casual feel. For smaller spaces, a 30-inch round table may be perfect. Some stylish options include:

• Rattan or wicker tables with a wood or glass top for a breezy look.
• Distressed wood tables with turned legs. The imperfections and natural wood grain add character.
• Glass-topped tables, especially those with an interesting base like metal or stone. The see-through top makes the space feel more open.

Square Coffee Tables

A basic square shape is ideal for a simple but stylish coffee table. Look for tables around 36 to 42 inches wide for most living rooms. Some recommendations would be:

• Teak wood tables with storage drawers or cabinets underneath. The squared edges and durable wood are quintessential coastal styles.
• Rustic tables made from reclaimed wood boards with metal accents. The imperfect wood and industrial details create a casual, beachy vibe.
• Nesting tables (smaller tables underneath a more extensive table) provide extra surface space when needed and tuck away when unused. Great for entertaining or hobby spaces.

Rectangular Coffee Tables

Elongated rectangular coffee tables are a great choice for a long sofa or sectional. Look for tables 48 to 60 inches long and 18 to 24 inches deep. Some stylish and functional options include:

• Distressed wood plank tables. The planks add visual texture, and the weathered wood suits a coastal cottage perfectly.
• Rattan tables with a sturdy wood or glass top. The open weave rattan base keeps the look light and airy.
• Trunk or chest-style tables. These provide hidden storage for blankets, books, or other living room items. The rugged, sturdy style is ideal for a beach house.

Final Thoughts

We hope this guide has equipped you with valuable insights into selecting the ideal coastal coffee table to enhance your desired laidback beach house ambiance. With a broad range of choices, ranging from driftwood to shell-inspired designs, take your time exploring styles to find one that resonates with you. Consider how the table will complement your existing decor, prioritize the most suitable size and shape, and embrace the opportunity to infuse your personal touch.

A well-chosen coastal coffee table has the potential to anchor the room and serve as a meaningful focal point, sparking engaging conversations among family and friends who visit your coastal retreat. So, embark on your treasure hunt confidently, and may your search lead you to the perfect addition to your seaside haven.