Adjustable Coffee Table Mechanism

Pop-up coffee tables are something we've seen around but we're never impressed with them aesthetically. What we do like, though, is the idea that one horizontal surface can function as a low coffee table and a dining or desk-height table in a small apartment. If you're handy, the mechanism for pop-up coffee tables can be purchased sans-table.

We're sure a nice DIY design could make for a really cool pop-up coffee table. Until now, we've only seen unsatisfying finished models like this or this. Here is an example of one pretty nice DIY pop-up design that's used as a side table plus storage.

Categories: Dining Tables

Posted by Regina Yunghans

Regina is an architect who lives with her husband and son in Lawrence, KS. As a LEED Accredited Professional and longtime contributor to Apartment Therapy and The Kitchn, her focus is on healthy, sustainable living through design.
Read more from Regina »

Comments (6)

i really like the tables from this website:
http://www.hydradesigns.com/

Bo Concept has something similar to this idea that's not too bad.

http://www.boconcept.us/default.aspx?id=62086&ImageID=47

If only that BoConcept table was 1/2 the width, it would be perfect for me! I've been using a 40 year old folding metal snack tray to work on my laptop while sitting on the couch.

ikea used to sell a lift-top coffee table, and there are a few good designs out there (like BoConcepts).

http://www.coffeetableshowroom.com/Beechwood-Coffee-Table-Stainless.htm
http://www.eco-furniture.com/docs/sit/living_sit_NapoliLiftTopCoffeeTable.html

i'm tempted to buy that lift mechanism and a good pre-built coffee table, and try to mate the two together.

on a parallel note, I'd like to know if there is a fold away coffee table. I just don't want one on the floor all the time, but when guests come I like to set hors d'oeurves on something handy. Any ideas?

I had the one from Ligne Roset for a while.
Now I detest these convertible/ hybrid tables on sight.
They just look so obvious.
Better off spending your creativity finding a way to get your existing kitchen bar or island to be multi use if a part-time dining surface is what you're after.
I've created it out of the kitchen counter in 2 places I've lived in now and use it as a project/working counter as well as for a dining bar, as well as extra kitchen prep space.

Apartment Therapy