We Tested (and Rated!) Every Coffee Table at West Elm — Here Are the Best to Suit Your Style and Space

Written by

Kendall Cornish
Kendall CornishBest List Writer, Apartment Therapy
Nikol Slatinska
Nikol SlatinskaCommerce Shopping Writer at Apartment Therapy
I write home shopping content for Apartment Therapy. My job entails product testing and reviewing, as well as writing serviceable shopping guides for furniture and home decor. I received my undergraduate journalism degree at the University of Missouri and wrote for local publications in my college town.
updated Jul 3, 2024
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Photo of living room with gray sofa, West Elm Mid-Century Art Display Coffee Table. Sticker in upper left reads Apartment Therapy Personal Shopper West Elm Coffee Tables 2024
Credit: West Elm

The right coffee table has the power to really make a space. Those with storage capacity can actually create more space — whether concealing essentials or displaying objects — while others blend right in with their surroundings. A coffee table can turn any room into an organized sanctuary or an inviting place to gather. And whether your ideal coffee table is minimal or makes a statement, it’s bound to be one of the most important elements of decor you’ll have in your home.

Perhaps your coffee table also serves as your work-from-home desk, kids’ homework spot, or even a dining table in a pinch. However yours serves you, choosing the right coffee table matters. As your Personal Shopper, we wanted to make the task easier for you by visiting the Brooklyn headquarters (and other New York locations) of West Elm to check out every coffee table on display. Just as we did with their sofas, bed frames, rugs, dressers, and dining tables, we evaluated each coffee table (multiple times!) to determine the perfect match for your needs. All you have to do is read on and discover which West Elm coffee table is best for you.


The Coffee Tables

The range of dining furniture carried by West Elm is not limited to this list. Visit the website for more options.

Why West Elm?

West Elm is an AT editor- and reader-favorite for all things home, including, of course, coffee tables. The brand’s vast selection not only looks good, but it can also be delivered directly to your dining area with white-glove delivery. Below are the exact coffee table models we tested, but you can also find many of them in different shapes and variations.

The Criteria

We judged every West Elm coffee table we found in-store based on the following five criteria, giving each category an average rating between 1 and 5. These scores helped us determine whom the table suits best and for what type of use. In addition to our scoring, you’ll find what our first impressions were, as well as the materials and the size and color variations available.

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Storage: How much can the coffee table hold? Is any available storage space concealed or displayed? How much storage capacity does it have?

Versatility: Can the table be used as more than just a coffee table? How suitable is it for working from home?

Appearance: What style does it best suit? Does it lean more traditional (i.e., detailing, dark wood) or more contemporary (i.e., sleek, light wood)? Does it work with a range of different decor styles?

Safety: Is it family friendly? How well does it suit the needs of people across a range of abilities? Do the shape and materials make it a safe option for families with kids?

Durability: Does it stain or scuff easily? Do you have to use coasters? Would it age well with regular use?


Every Editor-Tested Coffee Table at West Elm

What Impressed Us: The multifunctionality.

An AT reader favorite, this modern, industrial-style coffee table offers both storage and work-from-home desktop solutions. The lift-top feature moves smoothly, operated by a soft-touch divot handle, and forms a raised desktop, complete with storage space underneath. Both a space-saver and multitasker, the Industrial Pop-Up is an ideal solution for apartment dwellers.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid mango wood body and steel legs
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Available in 4 wood finishes

What Impressed Us: The surface area.

West Elm’s Volume Round coffee table is one of the more modern styles the brand has, with a large, statement-making frame. It offers maximum tabletop space, making it optimal for gathering, serving, and even enjoying a full meal. Although its clean, modern design is an obvious highlight, the Volume Round coffee table’s lack of angles and sharp corners lends to its overall safety, especially if kids (who like to run) are a factor.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Kiln-dried engineered wood
  • Available in up to 2 sizes, depending on the finish
  • Available in 3 wood finishes

What Impressed Us: The angular design.

The clear glass top of the Marcio Display coffee table gives it its name. More of an art piece than a simple coffee table, it’s one of the more delicate options West Elm has — but that doesn’t mean it isn’t sturdy. By blending into the background, the glass top not only creates more visual space in the room but also allows the Contract Grade, mid-century modern wood base — ideally loaded with coffee table books — to stand out.

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Walnut wood base and glass top
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

What impressed us: The low profile and chunky cylindrical legs.

In West Elm’s showroom, the oversized Hazel table was next to an equally oversized sectional, creating a grand yet relaxed living room vibe. Although this is one of the larger coffee tables we saw, and although it lacks the storage compartments of other models on display, we think you could easily get away with storing books, magazines, kids’ toys, and various bins and baskets under its simple square top. Really, the Hazel is perfect for families because of its no-frills design, rounded edges, and sturdy legs. The low profile means it could also serve as a makeshift leg rest when needed. But even though this piece is deceptively practical, it’s by no means dowdy. In fact, a white water-based finish makes the wooden furnishing look glossy, modern, and even a tad artsy.

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Engineered wood top and legs in a water-based white finish
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 color

What Impressed Us: The minimalism.

The Anton Solid Wood coffee table‘s slender top is paired with two thin yet wide pillar legs, creating the ideal minimalist profile. With all the space underneath, this piece can be kept vacant for a clean look or given a rustic feel by using baskets to store blankets or books. The solid kiln-dried mango wood feels durable, but at the same time, it manages not to look too bulky or heavy-duty. In short, the Anton is built to last, to look good, and to provide plenty of tabletop space.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Kiln-dried solid mango wood
  • Available in 3 sizes
  • Available in 4 wood finishes

What Impressed Us: The versatility.

Combining the minimalism and sharpness that mid-century design is known for with the utility and multi-functionality necessary today, the Mid-Century Pop-Up is the souped-up version of the (already impressive) Industrial Pop-Up coffee table. With a marble accent, which you can choose to make into a second pop-up storage element, and the same soft-touch lift-top as the Industrial, the Mid-Century is the best of all worlds.

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Kiln-dried eucalyptus wood and engineered wood
  • Available in 2 sizes and 2 variations
  • Available in up to 2 wood finishes, depending on configuration

Best Indoor/Outdoor: Monti Lava Stone Coffee Table

What impressed us: The volcanic stone material and organic appearance.

This striking stone coffee table is what you might call a soft brutalist piece, as it marries heavy elements — hard stone, a cold gray finish, and a chunky form — with soft, rounded curves. But as hefty as it might look, the Monti table is actually pretty lightweight. This is helpful; considering that the piece can be placed both indoors and outdoors, you’ll have no trouble moving it from one spot to the other should you decide to redecorate. Additionally, the fact that the table is partially made from volcanic stone is undeniably cool, but it also means you’ll have to take extra care to prevent scratches and stains. Coasters, placemats, and soft cleaning cloths will do you a world of good!

How we rated it:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Volcanic ash, stone, fiberglass, and sand resin
  • Available in up to 2 sizes, depending on the color
  • Available in 2 colors

What Impressed Us: The spaciousness.

As the ultimate in storage capacity, the Drum offers the simplicity and surface area we love about the Volume Round coffee table with the addition of a spacious hollowed-out interior that can hide anything from pillows and blankets to winter coats. For this reason, and because it’s smaller than the Volume, it’s ideal for apartment dwellers who could benefit from their coffee table also being a space-saving solution.

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Spun metal base and solid wood top
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Available in up to 3 metal finishes, depending on the size

Best for Coffee Table Books: Profile Coffee Table

What Impressed Us: The decorating possibilities.

As the ultimate in displayed storage capacity, the Profile coffee table is an overachiever. With three levels of storage on an iron base, its simple design allows your books, baskets, candles, and other decor pieces to shine. Though it’s made from iron, the table has a surprisingly airy feel, complete with a smooth surface that’s supremely easy to clean.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Iron top and base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 4 colors

What impressed us: The rounded edges and woven shelf.

The Chadwick table effortlessly taps into the mid-century modern vibe that West Elm is known and loved for. It would remain a pleasantly basic piece were it not for the woven shelf that lies beneath its surface. The light-colored, rattan-like material stands out against the rich acacia wood, which sports a warm walnut finish. Together, the mixed materials create a dynamic final product that would look right at home amid boho-inspired pieces — or not. The truth is, the Chadwick model is easy to pair with any aesthetic, and it’s plenty practical, to boot. The no-frills design sports safe, rounded tabletop edges and built-in levelers, which help the slightly out-turned legs adapt to different floor levels.

How we rated it:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Acacia wood top and frame and a woven cord shelf
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 2 wood finishes

What impressed us: The storage shelf and brass frame.

A solution to a lack of both storage space and a lack of decor display space, this mid-century piece will instantly add a touch of glamour to your living room. Because the table is available in 46” and 52” sizes, it’s a solid choice for both small-space dwellers and those dealing with expendable square footage. But no matter its size, the table will help you reduce clutter thanks to an extra storage shelf underneath its showy glass top. The dark walnut surface is perfect for practical items such as a TV remote and reading materials, as well as accessories you want to subtly display from a less obvious spot. We also can’t get enough of those gold-toned brass legs. In short, the refined but delicate table is ideal for adults who live without pets or kids and want a sophisticated look for their main communal area.

How we rated it:

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Specifications:

  • Tempered glass top, engineered wood undershelf, and brass metal frame
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Available in 1 wood finish

What impressed us: The mixed materials and rustic finish.

Although it sports a sensitive white marble top that you must take extra care not to stain, the Maddox round coffee table is Contract Grade and thus built to last in both commercial and residential spaces. It’s round, too, so you won’t run into any sharp corners when passing by. We love how the smooth marble is juxtaposed with a slightly weathered mango wood base, which has been sustainably sourced. Still, both materials are light in color and therefore don’t create a harsh contrast, in turn promoting a mellow seaside aesthetic. When you purchase the Maddox, it also comes with adjustable levelers, so you can adapt its base to different floor levels without a problem.

How we rated it:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • White marble top and mango wood base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

What impressed us: The fluted pedestal base and two-tone design.

Just because you might have limited space for a coffee table doesn’t mean you have to settle for something boring. The Ellington has a diameter of just 36 inches, so it’s one of the more compact options on this list. But its white marble top and thick fluted wood base allow it to stand out amid your other furniture despite its small footprint. These details also set the Ellington apart from other modern coffee tables. If you’ve been looking for a way to add texture and dimension to your living space, this pick will work wonders.

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Marble top and engineered wood base with poplar veneer
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

Best Nesting Style: Sintra Coffee Table

What impressed us: The textured legs and mobility.

Nesting-style tables are also a great option for small spaces because you can use the smaller one as a side table should you need storage next to an accent chair or slide it under the bigger table to free up floor space. The Sintra tables can be purchased individually, though we recommend picking up a pair, which includes one table with a 30-inch diameter and one with a 36-inch diameter. What’s also cool about the duo is that each piece has a slightly upturned edge, which helps prevent items from rolling off the top, and is made from ultra-durable metal. Although the tables are simple in appearance, they sport hand-hammered legs that lend a nice touch of texture to the surrounding area.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Cast metal top and legs
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Available in 1 metal finish

What impressed us: The charred-like finish and cutout base.

While we were looking at the Tanner coffee table, West Elm’s store manager let us know that its blackened finish is inspired by the Japanese wood-burning technique called shou sugi ban, which entails charring wood to preserve it. As a result, the table not only has a striking black finish, but its texture can also be characterized as brushed and slightly grainy. Despite this, the Tanner model maintains a glossy appearance. This, coupled with the unique cutout base, makes it a true stunner. You’ll also find the surface to be quite wide, providing plenty of storage space. Pairing the table with light-colored furniture will really help it pop.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid hemlock wood top and base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 2 wood finishes

Best Organic Shape: Cannellini Coffee Table

What impressed us: The bean-inspired shape and rich brown wood.

If you want to create a contemporary living space without having to utilize harsh, angular lines, try something like the Cannellini table. Although it’s very current, this model will help soften up the vicinity and make it that much more inviting, especially when you take into account its rich brown wood construction. We found the feel of the thick acacia wood to be soft and almost velvety to the touch. The table’s chunky cylindrical legs pair seamlessly with its bean-shaped top, which is plenty spacious for movie night snacks. Indeed, not only will the Cannellini wow guests, but it’ll also make them (and you) feel right at home with its eye-catching yet practical features.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid acacia wood top and legs
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

Best for a First Apartment: Willow Round Coffee Table

What impressed us: The raised edges and criss-cross base.

At under $200, the Willow table is not only one of West Elm’s most affordable options, but it’s also long-lasting thanks to its mango wood top and metal base, which features an eye-catching criss-cross design. So, whether you live with roommates and need something that can hold up to heavy traffic or you eventually plan on passing your table along to a friend and upgrading to a different model, the Willow is a fabulous pick. It’s available in a gray wood finish, but we prefer the lighter finish we saw in-store, as it contrasts more against the black base. This table, too, has raised edges around its surface, making it an especially secure spot for snacks, drinks, laptops, and more. 

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid mango wood top and metal base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 2 wood finishes

Best Statement Maker: Travertine Coffee Table

What impressed us: The low profile and brown stone top.

The Travertine table steals the show, and not only because of its larger-than-life size. We’ve seen plenty of white marble-topped tables during our store visits, but this one stands apart because it has a caramel-colored stone surface. Adding to its artful beauty are three double-barrel wood legs, which measure just 14 inches tall, giving the table a low profile. Overall, we would describe the Travertine as earthy in appearance; it’ll make your living room look at once laidback and highly curated, especially when paired with other sculptural furniture and decor.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Travertine stone top and solid mango wood legs
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood and stone finish

Best for Small Spaces: Asher Coffee Table

What impressed us: The compact size and tapered legs.

If your living room is better described as a reading nook, the Asher table might be right for you. Truth be told, it looks more like a side table than a coffee table, with a diameter of only 28 inches. Still, it charmed us with its tapered legs, slightly raised surface edges, and warm brown finish. The table’s small size also makes it quite versatile; you could easily use it as extra storage in the bedroom or home office. And, at $200, it won’t break the bank.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid mango wood top and legs
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

What impressed us: The flared pedestal base.

Although the Winona table offers a lot of surface area, we recommend it for people who are after a showpiece as opposed to something that can double as a dining table and work area. Its top is relatively thin and scratches easily, so you’ll want to take care not to damage it. That said, it’s still a great model for displaying decor and giving your family room an elegant vibe. You’ll also be happy to learn that like a lot of West Elm’s coffee tables, the Winona model is made from sustainably sourced mango wood, which in this case has a light, airy finish that pairs well with other natural colors.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Solid mango wood top and base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 wood finish

What impressed us: The concrete surface and inviting round shape.

The Portside table was made to look inviting and hold drinks, board games, and more, which it achieves with its round shape and relatively low profile. We like that the table has a smooth concrete top; although it’s not immune to scratches, it’ll certainly weather the outdoor elements like a pro. Underneath it, the base is made of moisture-resistant wood that comes in three finishes. You’ll love how easy the Portside is to wipe clean, not to mention how well it lends itself to social gatherings. Depending on the size of your patio or backyard, you might even grab two for each end so everyone will have a spot for their drink.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Concrete top and solid mahogany and eucalyptus wood base
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 3 wood finishes

What impressed us: The modern design and expansive tabletop.

Another stellar outdoor pick, this concrete table comes in two sizes, and we viewed the smaller one. With a diameter of 32 inches, it’ll be able to squeeze onto even the tightest of decks. The table’s low profile also makes it a good central point for get-togethers, and despite its small size, it feels heavy and high-quality. From a purely visual point of view, we were instantly taken with its stark white finish and smooth top. You also can’t ignore that flared pedestal base, which sets this piece apart from the typical four-legged coffee table. Oh, and did we mention it’s suitable for both indoor and outdoor use?

How We Rated It:

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Specifications:

  • Glass fiber reinforced concrete composite top and base
  • Available in 2 sizes
  • Available in 2 concrete finishes

Best for Outdoor Entertaining: Syros Outdoor Waterfall Coffee Table

What impressed us: The curved edges and sculptural appearance.

What impressed us about the Syros outdoor table, aside from its unignorable waterfall shape, was its weighty concrete construction. We almost expected it to feel hollow and light when we touched, but we found the opposite to be true. Though it might look white in photos, up close you’ll notice rust-colored specks, which add a dose of texture to this otherwise industrial-looking model. At 44 inches long, the Syros table takes up a decent chunk of horizontal space, but it’s not that wide, so you could still fit it onto a small terrace if you wanted to. It’s easily one of the most beautiful pieces we looked at, especially where outdoor furniture is concerned.

How We Rated It:

Credit: Apartment Therapy Media

Specifications:

  • Glass fiber reinforced concrete top and legs
  • Available in 1 size
  • Available in 1 concrete finish