Ah, the cocktail table—often the unsung hero of furniture, quietly lending its surface to your drinks, books, and remote controls. In a room, it’s an unassuming centerpiece that pulls your style and space together, seamlessly tying in with sofas, chairs, and other accessories. But have you ever paused to consider what makes for an excellent cocktail table?
If you’re in the market for one, you might be overwhelmed by the range of options out there: square shapes, round shapes, glass tops, different heights, and so on. So how do you choose the perfect table for your needs?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll tell you why real wood cocktail tables stand head and shoulders above the rest, and how to select the best one for your room. Let’s dive in!
Real Wood vs. Other Materials: A Clear Winner
When it comes to furniture, the material is often the deal-breaker. Sure, there are options like glass, metal, and even plastic on the market. However, none offer the unique blend of durability, elegance, and nature that real wood brings to the table (pun intended).
Real wood is a versatile material that suits a variety of styles, from rustic and nautical to modern style designs. It offers an unparalleled range of colors, grains, and textures, each piece boasting its own unique identity. The price might be a little higher compared to other materials, but remember—you get what you pay for. Keep an eye out for sales and deals at your favorite furniture store in Colorado Springs, where you might find high-quality wood furniture in stock at discounted prices.
Shapes and Sizes: One Size Doesn’t Fit All
One of the biggest advantages of opting for a wooden cocktail table is the diversity of shapes and sizes available. Whether you’re hosting parties outdoors or entertaining guests in your living room, there’s a wood cocktail table that fits the bill.
Square Shapes
Square tables are excellent if you have a large room with ample space and seating options. They offer a symmetrical design that’s easy on the eyes, and their uniform shape allows for easy movement and accessibility from all sides.
Round Shapes
Round tables offer a more casual feel, perfect for small rooms where space is a concern. They are also fantastic for entertaining since everyone can easily access the table from their place.
Other Shapes
Don’t limit yourself to just square and round tables; there are other unique shapes to consider like oval or even hexagonal. The shape you select will depend on your room layout, size, and style preferences. You can even customize a table to get exactly what you’re looking for.
The Height and Base Matter
Don’t overlook the height of your cocktail table. It should be roughly the same height as your sofa’s seat, give or take a few inches. The height ensures that the table is easy to reach, keeping all your drinks, remote controls, and accessories within arm’s length.
As for the base, you have options ranging from simple wooden legs to intricate designs featuring shelf storage. A sturdy base not only supports the table but also offers additional storage space, making it a practical option for any home.
Choosing the Perfect Cocktail Table: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Determine the Space: Measure the room and the area where you intend to place the cocktail table. This will help you choose the right size and shape.
- Identify Your Needs: Are you looking for a table mainly for drinks? Do you also need space for books and other accessories? Identifying your needs will narrow down your options.
- Set a Budget: Real wood furniture may be on the pricier side, but setting a budget will help you find the best deals without compromising on quality.
- Select the Style and Color: Choose a style that complements your existing furniture and room decor. The color should either match or contrast with your room’s color scheme, adding to the overall aesthetic.
- Find the Right Store: Look for stores that specialize in real wood furniture, like CO Lumber & Real Wood Furniture. We offer a broader range of styles, sizes, and designs, making finding your ideal cocktail table easier.
- Check for Sales and Offers: Many stores offer sales during holidays and special occasions. This is the perfect time to snag a quality piece at a lower price.
- Accessorize: Once you’ve purchased your table, don’t forget to accessorize. Whether it’s a small vase, a bowl for snacks, or a decorative item, the right accessories can elevate the look of your table.
- Maintenance: Real wood tables are easy to maintain. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth will keep them looking as good as new for years to come.
- Enjoy: Once everything is set up, all that’s left to do is to enjoy your new centerpiece!
Finished vs. Unfinished Wood: What to Choose for Your Cocktail Table
One crucial decision you’ll encounter when shopping for a real wood cocktail table is whether to go for a finished or unfinished piece. Both options have their merits and drawbacks, and understanding these can help you find a table that perfectly suits your home and lifestyle. Let’s break down the differences:
Finished Wood Cocktail Tables
Advantages
- Ready to Use: Finished tables come pre-stained and coated, meaning they’re ready to take their place in your room immediately.
- Durability: The finishes often include sealants that protect the wood from moisture, spills, and stains. This is especially useful when the table will frequently hold drinks and food, as is common in entertaining settings.
- Aesthetic Appeal: These tables are usually designed to bring out the best in wood’s natural beauty, enhancing grain patterns and offering a range of color choices to match your existing furniture.
- Low Maintenance: A finished cocktail table is relatively easy to clean. A quick wipe with a damp cloth will usually do the trick, making it a practical option for busy households.
Drawbacks
- Price: Finished wood tables often come at a higher price point due to the additional work and materials involved in the finishing process.
- Less Customizable: What you see is what you get. The color and style are already set, leaving you with fewer options for customization.
Unfinished Wood Cocktail Tables
Advantages
- Customizable: This is the biggest perk. You can stain, paint, or seal it yourself, meaning you can match it precisely to other furniture or features in your room.
- Cost-Effective: These tables are usually less expensive upfront since they haven’t gone through the finishing process. If you’re up for a bit of DIY, you can end up with a beautiful piece at a more affordable price.
- Natural Look: If you love the raw, natural look of wood, an unfinished table offers this in abundance. This style particularly complements rustic, nautical, or nature-themed spaces.
Drawbacks
- Time and Effort: If you opt to finish it yourself, you’ll need to invest time and effort into the project. This includes sanding, staining, and sealing, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea.
- Maintenance: Unfinished tables are more susceptible to stains, water rings, and wear and tear. Without a protective sealant, you’ll need to be more cautious when placing drinks or hot items on the table.
Conclusion: Finished vs. Unfinished
Choosing between a finished and unfinished cocktail table boils down to your personal preferences, needs, and willingness to invest time in maintenance or customization. If you want a ready-made, durable table with less fuss, a finished table is your best option. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something that you can personalize and are willing to put in some elbow grease, an unfinished table could be the perfect project to undertake.
Regardless of what you choose, opting for a real wood cocktail table is a decision you’re unlikely to regret. Both finished and unfinished tables offer a warmth, durability, and natural beauty that is hard to find in other materials. So head to your nearest furniture store and explore the range of options available to bring the charm of real wood into your home.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect cocktail table doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Opting for real wood furniture not only gives you a durable and beautiful piece but also offers a plethora of styles, shapes, and sizes to choose from. It’s an investment that will not only serve you well but also elevate the aesthetic of your home.
So why settle for less when you can have the best? Head to CO Lumber & Real Wood Furniture today and bring home the cocktail table of your dreams.
