Marble has always been considered a high-end, durable material for only the best furniture. The material’s essence and flair speak to opulent homes that are missing a signature piece to add that final touch. We introduce you to the marble coffee table, a unique piece serving a range of purposes from simply existing as a statement item to being placed strategically for entertainment and functional display, it works no matter what.

A stylish round marble coffee table, placed in a luxurious living room, complements a blue sofa with a woman relaxing on it.

Marble has always had an alluring, ageless appeal and beauty that adds an elegant touch where necessary. While it can elevate any room, it is important to remember to be clever when selecting a colour, pattern, and accompanying materials such as a metal frame. If you are thinking about purchasing luxury coffee tables, these key points will help you understand why it is worth the splurge:

Why Consider a Marble Coffee Table

Why Consider a Marble Coffee Table

Marble has been around for a long time and has been a popular feature in luxury homes for even longer.

It is durable

Marble is sturdy material so you can rest assured it will last for a very long time.

Versatility at its finest

High-end furniture should be versatile enough so you can customise them based on your preferences and that is exactly why we like marble, it is versatile in nature.

Marble comes in different colours and styles leaving you with a plethora of options to explore.

Each piece is unique

Each tabletop has a unique veining and patterns, meaning that while pieces can be similar, the section of marble cut for your table is unique.

If you are opting for a bespoke design, you can almost guarantee that no other person would have the same marble cut as yours.

Large black marble coffee table in the center of a luxurious living room, surrounded by friends on a luxury sofa.

Different Types of Marble Coffee Tables

Now that you understand the why, let us explore some of the style options. Over time, we have evaluated several elements of the coffee table and found that people often opt for styles and designs they are familiar with. In recent times, however, homeowners in the United Kingdom have started looking towards unique designs that not only speak to refinement but become a talking point. Here are some style ideas to ponder:

Rectangular

This shape is considered timeless and classic and is often found in more traditional homes. Traditional homes are at peak sophistication so we could not agree more with this sentiment.

Round

This design provides a much softer feel, taking into account its surroundings. Round designs work well for smaller spaces since they do not have sharp edges, and this helps to maximise space.

Oval

This design combines the function of rectangles with the elegance and softness of the round. An oval marble top coffee table works well as a statement piece.

Geometric

This shape is known to be versatile, simultaneously offering boldness that would make any coffee table with marble stand out. The angles and lines are great to add a touch of modernity to any home.

Nesting

This design features two or three tables combined as one. Usually, one is bigger than the other, but they work in harmony. This is a great choice if you wish to use your table for decorating and entertaining.

Top view of a modern living room with a luxury white and black marble square coffee table, beautifully complementing a cozy white sofa.

Why Luxury Interior Designers Love Marble Topped Tables

Interior designers take their time to understand homes, decorating, furniture, and the entire design lifecycle. For this reason, they often experiment with combinations and styles we have not thought about before. This helps, especially if you are looking at materials and exploring their quality.

These marble types are beloved across the world, each one offering something unique, but also ensuring that your taste is catered for. Speaking about taste and preferences, we have looked at some trends interior designers have noted. These trends will help you even further, providing clarity on the styles everyone wants in their home today:

Minimalist

It comes as no surprise that homeowners are moving towards the minimalist theme. This is a great choice for a luxury marble-top coffee table that features clean lines or simple shapes.

Mixed materials

Mixing contrasting materials such as wood or metal adds a different dimension to your table. Combining different elements allows for a more modern look.

Organic shapes

There has been an uptick in oval and round table designs. In a way, some homeowners are going back to basics and opting for tradition.

A woman adding a flower vase to a stylish white marble coffee table for a decorative finish.

Pros and Cons to Consider

There is a misconception that furniture is meaningless and does not require some well-thought-out designs and styling. We know that furniture serves more than a functional purpose and reflects one's preferences. Incorporating a marble-effect coffee table into your home is an act of sophistication, showing how much you value uniquely crafted items. Here are some pros and cons to consider.

Pros:
  • Material: Marble is the type of material that is not only beautiful but is resistant to shattering as compared to glass.
  • Durable: Marble tables are often passed down to family members since they are durable and long-lasting. In many cases, they are passed to others without even a blemish, further cementing their durability status.
  • Versatility: A marble-top coffee table can be paired with many other items, making it one of the more versatile furniture choices.
  • Heat resistant: One of the more notable pros is that marble is heat resistant, meaning you can rest assured that warm beverage stains will not damage it.
Cons
  • High maintenance: A marble table requires significant maintenance because of the high grain structure it possesses. It needs to be sealed regularly to ensure it does not damage or stain.
  • Heavy lifting: Marble pieces can become significantly heavy making it difficult to move around.
  • Scrapes leave marks: While marble does not damage easily, sharp objects can sometimes leave unwanted imperfections in the surface.
A woman decorating a stunning white marble square coffee table with a flower vase in a stylish contemporary living area.

Tips on Choosing the Best Marble Table for Your Living Room

Choosing the right marble-effect coffee table doesn’t have to be arduous. We’ve done the heavy lifting and highlighted some styles and pros and cons, so you already have a better understanding than before. However, to help you even further, here are some key tips so you can find the perfect table:

Rectangular

This shape is considered timeless and classic and is often found in more traditional homes. Traditional homes are at peak sophistication so we could not agree more with this sentiment.

Choose a style

You have decided to purchase or commission your next coffee table so the first thing to do is to find a style. Are you going for minimalist, mixed materials, organic shapes or other?

The size of your room

Next you should look at the size of your room. This helps you determine the size of your table.

Placement

Once you know the size, you can plot and plan where you will place said table.

Understand your preferences

The last tip is to look at your preferences. Do you want a showpiece, will the table be for a function, or is it a combination of both? Will it feature texture, and what colour will you choose? Our tip is to opt for anything within your style.

A couple admiring a large rectangular marble coffee table with a stylish black base in a luxury showroom.

Best Types of Marble for Luxury Interiors

Luxury interiors require a certain level of flair. From opulent finishings to grand designs, only the best is required. One of those high-end items is a marble coffee table. Here are some of the best marble types to consider:

Carrara

From the Carrara region in Italy, this is the most common choice among homeowners. Its classic white and blue/grey hue and veining are easily recognisable and versatile too.

Calacatta

Also quarried in Italy, calacatta marble looks like Carrara but is much more dramatic in terms of its veining. Its grey or gold veining is perfect against white backdrops.

Statuario

We like this style as it is the epitome of opulence. With its rich veining and pure white colour, this marble has become the preferred type for luxury coffee tables.

Emperador

Quarried in Spain, emperador marble is browner and features subtle veining as compared to its Italian counterparts. This marble is great for spaces where you need a sense of warmth, making it a perfect choice for traditional luxury spaces.

Nero

This Spanish marble is black and has striking veining making a bold statement. A wonderful choice for modern and contemporary homes.

Breccia

Found all over the world, breccia is often described as the more unique marble. That is because it has a fractured appearance that is formed naturally in a geological process. For a one-of-a-kind look, breccia is the one.

Travertine

This marble is a time of limestone with distinct porous texture and is found in Spain, Italy, and Turkey. With its earthly hue and texture, this marble works well in opulent rustic spaces.

Panda

Quarried in China, panda marble is white with subtle grey or black veins. It is a great choice for an elegant space.

Onyx

This marble is well-known and is quarried in Mexico, Pakistan, and Iran. The translucent colour with its striking veins, creates a sense of drama. The marble comes in different colours from white to brown, so no two pieces would look the same.

Stylish grey marble rectangular coffee table contrasting with a white cozy sofa, enhancing the elegance of a modern living area.

Identifying Good Quality Marble

Now that you understand what the best marble is, it is equally as important to understand how you can evaluate its craftsmanship.

Premium marble tables are quite easy to spot. It is not only the material itself, but the design, finishings, and overall design that makes it a premium item.

Look out for smooth and polished edges without any cracks, this shows you that it was expertly crafted.

Do look at the base of the table, if it is sturdy and balanced, and will remain this way for decades to come, it is premium.

Another physical aspect is that the marble pattern is consistent. Premium marble has symmetrical patterns without any cut-offs. Then there is the traditional technique taken from woodworking of mortise and tenon joinery. This provides the joints with a sturdy bond. If you’re still unsure - look for popular brand names like Cattelan Italia as their marble is always of premium quality.

Stunning white marble coffee table serves as the centerpiece in a luxury living area with a fireplace in the background.

Styling a Room with Marble Table

Now that we have established different styles and looked at the different types of marble, the last step is to look at how to style your room. Start by contrasting your furniture with the table. For example, if your living room is light in colour, pair it with a darker table to provide a striking contrast. Look at natural elements such as potted plants or fresh flower vases.

Since marble is natural as well, it comes as no surprise that other natural elements work well in conjunction. Using your table as a display is often a great idea and a fantastic space saver if necessary.

If your living room is more modern and features a minimalist design, you can decorate your table so that it is the focal point. These coffee tables are glamorous pieces, but you can take it up several notches by embracing a more vintage style for the room. For this to work, your living room should be vintage already, but your table should include intricate marble detailing such as veins and a pedestal base. This leaves you with a timeless aesthetic.

Classy white marble coffee table complementing the black sofa, adding elegance to the room.

Summing Up: How FCI London Can Help You Find the Perfect Marble Table

We understand the intricacies of finding a new coffee table, especially if it is crafted from a high-end materials such as marble. We also understand that your day is filled with important work, leaving you little to no time to shop around for a coffee table, let alone conceptualise one yourself.

Here at FCI London, we have teams of experts who have taken the time to understand various styles, patterns, colours and types. Visit our 30,000 sq. ft. showroom, the largest luxury showroom in London, to discover, explore and experience a wide range of contemporary and traditional sofas, along with professional advice from a team of experienced and award-winning interior designers.

Utilise our complementary services like 3D Rendering, project planning, and enjoy our signature personalised service. We aim to make your design journey as seamless as possible, saving you time and effort wherever possible.

Book your appointment today!

Book an Appointment With an FCI Coffee Table Expert

From getting your proportions right to nailing your style, our design team is at your disposal to help you find the perfect coffee table. Take advantage of our free consultation service by visiting our award-winning showroom today.

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