How Mixed Materials Make Coffee Tables More Practical

Most coffee tables are asked to do several jobs at once. They need a surface that copes with hot mugs and spilt drinks, a frame strong enough to be leant on, space for books and remotes, and a look that suits the rest of the room. It is rare for a single material to do all of that equally well, which is why mixed material designs have become such a sensible choice. In this guide we explain how combining materials lets each one play to its strengths. We look at the most useful pairings, including wood with metal, glass with metal, marble with wood and stone with steel, and what each brings to everyday life. We also cover how mixed materials help with durability, cleaning, weight and visual space in smaller rooms, and how to keep a mixed design feeling cohesive rather than busy. Finally, we answer common questions about caring for tables that combine more than one finish....