10 coffee table designs merging functionality with sculptural art

The essence of every well-designed space, a coffee table conveys a great deal about the space and the people it surrounds. A sculptural coffee table adorned with classic novels and potpourri adornments exudes a sense of refinement and a qualitative characteristic. The multitasker shapeshifts as the perfect spot for fostering social interactions, an eye-catching centrepiece and sometimes even a showcase for your oversized book collection. Experimenting with the contextual and creative design of a simple furniture piece is also a medium of expression for architects, brands, manufacturers, and design aficionados . From an art-covered tabletop that lets you sink into the depths of the ocean to a sculptural portrayal of the Netherworld, STIR brews the pot for unique coffee table design via the prism of exceptional product designers and international brands.

Cala Coffee Table by Draga & Aurel

With the Cala coffee table, Italian designers Draga & Aurel weave an innovative visual narrative. The product designers capture a magnificent recollection of the beach within a closed environment by drawing inspiration from the countless shades of Lake Como, Italy, complementing the concrete seabed. The coffee table was fabricated using Holcim Italia's Ductal concrete and coloured cast resin. Its production necessitates a special resin-casting method, which is entirely carried out by hand at the duo’s workshop in Como. The material is melted into various complexities, producing fluid, deep, and distinctive table tops by playing with stunning colour combinations and incorporating irregular mistakes and mishaps.

Maui Round Coffee Table by Marcel Wanders

The Netherlands-based designer Marcel Wander's 'Maui' collection embraces a unique design language that transports one to the tropical islands of Hawaii. Taking cues from a breezy tropical setting, the collectible assortment includes furniture designed using radial patterns of hemp ropes, Neutral tones of the upholstery and pleasing organic shapes. The Maui round coffee table emphasises the raw expression and neutral tones of the travertine stone. The coffee table's delicately rounded legs mimic the collection's curves, making it an ideal addition to any outdoor lounge set. The coffee table's utilitarian design corresponds with its modest design scheme and robust geometry.

Acquario Coffee Table by Andrea Mancuso

During Milan Design Week 2022, Analogia Project’s Andrea Mancuso showcased ‘Acquario’ within. Nilufar Gallery. As part of the display, the Italian designer offered a gateway into a transcendental state between the natural world and a domesticated space through functional art pieces. With its sinuously curved design, the Acquario coffee table imitates oceanic archetypes made of glass and ceramics. A detailed seabed appears to be uncovered via multi-layered shimmering glass discs. The collection is complete with the Acquario side table, mirror, dining table, console and a chandelier.

Archeoflavus Tripartitus Coffee Table by Stanislaw Trzebinski

Stanislaw Trzebinski is known for his otherworldly approach to design. He created the Archeoflavus Tripartitus coffee table as a functional artwork inspired by aliens and a fantasy world. The table's design, patinated bronze exudes a mystical, almost archaic charm. The Archeoflavus Tripartitus elevates a table's fundamental purpose into a sculpture that, even when not in use, is an ideal decorative element for any interior space. The table’s rugged design and texture resemble objects from the netherworld that have emerged from beneath the earth or landed from outer space with tentacular embellishments used as vertical features that further accentuate its supernatural appeal

Dune Coffee Table by Pietro Franceschini

Pietro Franceschini's Dune coffee table is a sculptural addition to a desert romantic interior scheme. Upon first inspection, the centre of the table appears to be descending into an abyss. The objective behind the design was to mimic the continually fluctuating shape and formations of desert dunes. Hand-crafted artisanship and a technique-driven design approach make the table a well-balanced addition to an interior setting.

Dolmen by Lema

Dolmen is a coffee table set distinguished by natural geometric shapes, that can be freely assembled. Designed by the luxury Italian brand Lema, the coffee table set is conceived for living spaces and is available in a variety of dimensions. Each of the constituent tables expresses itself best in articulated compositions. The framework is made of bronze-painted metal, and the tops are either matt lacquer or wood.

The Arche Coffee Table by Paolo Castelli

From the colossal arches supporting the Roman aqueducts to the intricately carved curvatures of gothic churches, arches have always been an integral part of architectural history. Luxury Italian brand, Paolo Castelli captures the true essence of this supporting structural element and presents the Arche coffee table in concise, geometrical forms. The coffee table design features a cross-shaped laser-cut arrangement presented in a champagne colour that supports the weight of a reconstituted coarse-grained top.

The Azul Coffee Table by Paola Navone for Turri

Iconic Italian designer Paola Navone adds a playful spin to Turri’s Azul Coffee Table. Part of the Azul Collection, the table was on display for the Italian brand's immersive display during the Milan Design Week 2022. Designed in shades of blue, is enveloped in tinted glass further accentuated with fringes in a complementing blue. The table is an example of art instilled in design and fits any interior setting. Navone paired the Azul table with two complementing stools from the collection.

UP Coffee Table by Johannes Budde

The Germany-based designer Johannes Budde designed the UP coffee table as a versatile shapeshifter that can be used as a side table as well as a coffee table. The simple yet elegant coffee table is designed to emanate a playful appeal while being usable from two sides. Budde designed the table in a way that when it is 'lying,' its elevation and supplementary compartment make it a great nightstand. It is eleven centimetres taller when held vertically and can also double a coffee table. Because of its bends, the form expresses liveliness and is intended to make exciting use of the furniture.

The Volumetric Table by Voukenas Petrides

New York and Athens-based design studio Voukenas Petrides designed the Volumetric table as part of their ‘Haptic Nature’ exhibition that was recently presented at gallery FUMI. The table, designed in cast aluminium, is crafted into organic forms adding a functional yet aesthetic value to the table. The simple, uncomplicated and natural rock-like look of the table makes it a perfect fit for indoor as well as outdoor lounge settings.