The coffee table has evolved. No longer just a surface for remotes and empty mugs, it's become a statement piece—one that can shape the personality of your entire space. If you're looking to inject something unexpected into your living room, unique coffee tables are where it's at.
From unexpected shapes to bold materials and clever functionality, here's how these under-appreciated furniture items can transform your setup.
Why Unique Coffee Tables Matter
Coffee tables sit front and centre in most living rooms, often in direct line of sight. Yet many of us treat them as an afterthought. Opting for something distinctive isn't just about visual interest—it’s about redefining the function and style of the room without needing a full redesign.
1. They Break Up Predictable Layouts
If your living room feels a bit formulaic, a unique coffee table can shift the energy immediately. Circular designs soften rigid layouts, while asymmetrical silhouettes keep the eye moving. Consider a sculptural base or a tiered design to add depth and variation without clutter.
2. They Maximise Small Living Rooms
In tighter floor plans, coffee tables with hidden storage, lift-tops, or nesting capabilities can double their usefulness. A compact design with smart features helps maintain flow while keeping essentials out of sight. Look for pieces that merge style with practicality—think minimalist with a twist.
3. Materials That Speak Volumes
Choosing the right material can define the tone of your space. Raw timber coffee tables offer texture and warmth, while glass or stone designs give a clean and grounded feel. If you're aiming for contrast, try pairing natural finishes with more refined upholstery or metallic accents.
4. An Opportunity to Showcase Personality
Your table doesn’t have to match your sofa—it can stand on its own. Whether you gravitate toward geometric steel frames, terrazzo tops, or live-edge slabs, this is where your taste can be loud without being overbearing.
Curated styling can take things up a notch. Stack a couple of oversized books, layer in a sculptural object or candle, and you’re done. Keep it tight—3-5 pieces max—to avoid looking cluttered.
5. Flexibility in Open-Plan Spaces
In open-plan homes, defining zones is key. A bold coffee table can act as a visual divider between your living and dining spaces. Opt for designs that are low and wide to anchor the lounge area or try a modular coffee table that can be rearranged depending on need.
6. Make Room for Movement
Ever walked into the corner of a boxy coffee table? Sharp lines in high-traffic zones can be a pain—literally. Oval or rounded coffee tables offer a safer, more fluid option for homes with kids or tight walkways.
Bonus: rounded designs tend to play nicely with curved sofas or accent chairs, which are very much having a moment right now.
7. Local Makers Mean One-Off Designs
If you're in the market for something truly individual, skip the showroom and go straight to the source. Working with a Melbourne-based custom furniture maker (like us at MOMU) means you can specify dimensions, materials, and even finishes.
Want a matte black steel base with a matte timber top? No problem. Need something compact but still roomy enough to hold everything? It’s all possible when the design starts with your needs—not mass production.
Discover the Right Coffee Table for Your Home
The Mesmerising Canopy Coffee Table
Price: $3,600
Size:
- Standard: L 140 x W 90 x H 38cm
- Custom Sizes Available
Description: The Canopy Coffee Table offers a sleek design with robust legs, creating a floating illusion. Handcrafted from premium American Oak in Melbourne, it comes in various stains and finishes. Customisable to your preferred dimensions, this table combines elegance with durability, backed by a 5-year warranty.
The Expansive Montana Coffee Table
Price: $4,100
Size:
- Standard: L 120 x W 120 x H 40cm
- Custom Sizes Available
Description: The Montana Coffee Table evokes the feel of wide open spaces with its generous dimensions. Made to order from American Oak, it is available in multiple stain options and satin finishes. Customisable to suit your space, this sturdy table is built to last, with a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.
The Playful Moray Coffee Table
Price: $3,700
Size:
- Standard: D 110 x H 39cm
- Custom Sizes Available
Description: The Moray Coffee Table features a contemporary round design with a striking base. Crafted from solid American Oak in Melbourne, it balances modern and timeless styles. Custom sizes and finishes are available, and it is backed by a 5-year warranty, ensuring longevity and uniqueness.
Discover the Coffee Table That's Taking Melbourne by Storm: The MOMU Perfect Coffee Table
When it comes to making a statement in your living room, few pieces of furniture can rival the impact of a well-designed coffee table. The MOMU Perfect Coffee Table is a piece that not only anchors your space but also elevates it to new heights of style and functionality. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this coffee table offers a harmonious blend of form and function, making it a must-have for anyone looking to add a touch of modern sophistication to their home. Whether you're hosting guests or simply enjoying a quiet evening with a book, the MOMU Perfect Coffee Table is the ideal companion, bringing both beauty and utility to your living space.
Local Employment
1 in 5 furniture makers in Australia are employed in Melbourne
Craftsmanship
Handcrafted by skilled artisans, ensuring attention to detail and quality
Materials
High-quality materials used, ensuring durability and comfort
Warranty
Melbourne-made sofas come with a 10-year warranty
Final Thoughts
Unique coffee tables are no longer the supporting act—they’re a headline feature. With the right design, material, and proportion, you can use this one item to completely shift the tone of your space. And in a world where homes are working harder than ever (offices, relaxation zones, entertainment hubs), that versatility matters.
Whether you're after a sculptural statement or clever storage, the options are wide open—and the best part is, you don’t need to compromise on function to get something that feels personal.
So if you're rethinking your living space, start with the coffee table. You might be surprised how much one well-considered piece can do.
Contact Us:
- Phone: Our customer care team is available Monday to Saturday, 9am-5pm (AEST). Contact us on 1300 052 495 for assistance.
- Email: Get in touch via email at enquiry@momu.com.au.
Visit Our Showroom:
- Address: 12 Ardena Ct, Bentleigh East VIC 3165
- Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday: 10:00am - 3:00pm. Virtual appointments can also be booked.
Easily accessible from nearby Brighton, Hampton, and Sandringham. It's a straightforward drive south from Richmond and South Yarra, and the journey from Kew, Balwyn, and the northern suburbs, including Fitzroy, Thornbury, Ivanhoe, and Northcote, is a breeze. Visit the MOMU showroom at 12 Ardena Ct, Bentleigh East VIC 3165. You can find MOMU here in Google Maps.