If you’re even mildly interested in interior design trends, you’ve likely noticed the explosion of popularity for farmhouse decor over the last few years. The cozy, vintage-inspired farmhouse look has become a mainstay style across home decor blogs, magazines, and television shows.
But what is it that makes the farmhouse aesthetic so appealing for today’s homeowners? I think it’s the sense of casual comfort and rustic charm that farmhouse style brings. It’s a decorating vibe that feels laidback and welcoming, like you’re curled up in your favorite blanket next to a crackling fireplace.
At the center of any living room, the coffee table is the natural focal point that sets the tone for your entire space. So if you’re looking to farmhouse-ify your home, a reclaimed wood or distressed finish coffee table is the perfect furnishing to help you achieve this charming style.
In this blog, we’ll be doing a deep dive into the world of farmhouse style coffee tables. First, we’ll count down the top 5 most popular options and discuss what makes them so great. Then, we’ll go through key tips on how to choose the right farmhouse coffee table for your space and decor style. And finally, we’ll wrap up by answering some frequently asked questions about these cozy rustic chic tables.
Whether you’re ready to fully embrace the chippy chic farmhouse trend or just want to inject a little weathered character into your living room, read on for the complete guide to crafting farmhouse living room style with the perfect coffee table!
The Top 5 Farmhouse Style Coffee Tables
When you start browsing farmhouse style coffee tables, you’ll notice some common rustic themes across the top options. Distressed wood, vintage-inspired shapes, repurposed materials, and industrial accents prevail in this category.
While browsing the many farmhouse coffee tables available online and in stores may feel overwhelming at first, most pieces fall into five main categories. Here are the most popular styles along with the pros, cons and ideal decor pairings for each.
1. Distressed Wood Top Coffee Table
This classic farmhouse coffee table has a solid wood top that’s been finished to look aged and worn. The distressing techniques vary, but usually include chiseling away edges, creating cracks or knots, staining, and dry brushing to achieve variations in color. The base is often metal or newly made wood. An open or closed bottom shelf provides storage space.
Pros: Very affordable, available in wide range of sizes and wood tone options, easy to incorporate into casual farmhouse decor.
Cons: Quality and durability varies greatly, distressing may appear fake or overdone, too rustic for some.
Ideal for: Country cottage style living rooms, farmhouse spaces on a tight budget.
2. Reclaimed Wood Coffee Table
As you may have guessed, these farmhouse-friendly coffee tables are crafted using wood salvaged from old barns, homes, or other structures. Reclaimed wood offers a truly timeworn appearance you just can’t replicate artificially. Tables are usually made from aged planks or beams repurposed into table tops.
Pros: Eco-friendly sustainability factor, patina and imperfections add unique character, supports reuse of materials.
Cons: Often expensive, sourcing reclaimed wood can be unclear, very heavy.
Ideal for: Those who appreciate rustic patina plus sustainability, want a true conversation piece.
3. Rustic Wood Plank Coffee Table
This popular farmhouse table style features an elongated rectangular tabletop made from multiple wood planks. The random-width planks create interest, as does any visible distressing or cracks between boards. The base is wood or black metal.
Pros: Narrow shape perfect for small spaces, industrial edge suits farmhouse style well, more budget-friendly than reclaimed wood.
Cons: Very heavy so not easily moved, limited sizes and customization options.
Ideal for: Small living rooms needing narrow coffee tables, farmhouse spaces with a modern loft aesthetic.
4. Repurposed Furniture Coffee Table
Some of the most creative farmhouse coffee tables are made by repurposing the wood from antique or vintage furniture pieces. An old trunk turned on its side makes a charming table, as do crates, drawers, cabinets, carts, and more.
Pros: Totally unique and eco-friendly find, antique patina tells a story, conversation starter.
Cons: Hunting down the perfect piece takes time, function limited by original furniture shape and size.
Ideal for: Those who love flea markets, auctions, antiques – appreciates finding hidden gems.
5. Rustic Wood Accent Coffee Table
Similar to the first distressed wood coffee table, but with the addition of antique metal, reclaimed wood, or modern accents that add farmhouse character. Examples include metal wheels, shelves, drawers, or a contrasting wood tone plank tabletop.
Pros: Extra storage and function, decor accents tailor look to your style.
Cons: Potentially higher cost, not to everyone’s taste.
Ideal for: Adding personalized farmhouse flair with functional decorative accents.
This covers the 5 most common categories of coffee tables fitting the popular farmhouse style aesthetic. As you evaluate options, think about your space, lifestyle and preferences to choose the one that best suits your vision and needs.
Next, let’s get into the nitty gritty of how to select the perfect farmhouse style coffee table for your individual home and decor taste.
How to Choose the Right Farmhouse Style Coffee Table for Your Space
From Victorian farmhouse to rustic modern, the farmhouse decor spectrum is wide. Make sure the coffee table you choose enhances your living room vision rather than clashing or falling flat. Here are some key factors to consider as you shop:
Size
Take measurements of the length and depth of your sitting area and space where the coffee table will live. Leave at least 18 inches from the edge of the couch or chairs on all sides for leg room and traffic flow. The table shouldn’t overwhelm the space, but should be large enough to be the focal point. An ideal coffee table is 2⁄3 the length of your sofa.
Shape
Standard rectangles work well for small or oddly shaped sitting areas. For large open concept rooms, consider round or oval shapes to encourage flowing conversation. Just be sure to account for leg room around curved edges too.
Style
Farmhouse style coffee tables run the gamut from rough hewn plank wood to smoothed out vintage. Take into account any existing furniture and your personal preference for rustic, industrial, salvaged, or refined farmhouse when selecting a table. It should fit right in with your vision.
Wood Tone
Light oak and pine woods complement cooler color palettes while dark walnut and mahogany match spaces with warm paint or fabric colors. If you aren’t sure which wood tone will work best, bring home fabric swatches from your space to compare colors side by side.
Base Style
Coffee table legs come in wood, metal, or a combo of both. Make sure the base you choose fits the rest of your furniture and decor style. For example, modern farmhouse rooms would suit a sleek metal base, while traditional farmhouse spaces may call for turned wood legs.
Distressing Level
Some farmhouse tables have very rugged distressing while others have a subtler worn-in look. If cracks, paint flecks, or stain variations make you cringe, stick to minimum aging. If you love the imperfections, choose a table with extra character marks.
Storage
Built-in shelves or drawers provide useful storage solutions, especially in compact spaces. But if you’ll mainly be using baskets or trunks for organization underneath, a basic open frame table will suffice.
Price
Farmhouse coffee tables can range from big box store sub-$300 options to $3000+ for handcrafted reclaimed wood designer pieces. Set a comfortable budget, but know you may be able to score sales on more expensive styles by hunting diligently.
Quality
Durable hardwoods like oak stand the test of time better than softer woods prone to scratches and dents. Check that tabletops are made from solid wood, not just veneers. Reinforced corners and dovetail joinery add stability. Don’t compromise too much on quality just for price.
Sustainability
If using environmentally responsible materials is important to you, look for coffee tables made from locally sourced, reused or reclaimed wood. Ask vendors about where they source their materials. A vintage find also helps reduce waste.
Online vs In-Store
Shopping online gives you unlimited options to find a style you love. But nothing beats being able to see wood grain, color variations, scale and quality in person before bringing an investment piece home. If possible, do both.
The most important thing is that you choose a coffee table that aligns with your personal style and brings you joy in your space every day. Don’t settle until you find the one that speaks to you! Now that you know what to look for, let’s get into some common questions about living with farmhouse coffee tables.
Frequently Asked Questions About Farmhouse Style Coffee Tables
Are farmhouse coffee tables easy to clean and care for?
The woods and metal used in most farmhouse coffee tables are durable and simple to maintain:
- Use coasters under all drinks to prevent moisture damage and stains.
- Dust regularly with a soft lint-free cloth.
- Deep clean surfaces with gentle cleanser and damp rag as needed. Avoid excessive water exposure.
- Apply beeswax or tung oil periodically to protect and condition wood tops.
- Refinish with polyurethane or stain if wood starts looking worn.
Follow any specific care instructions from the manufacturer, especially for painted and treated finishes. With regular upkeep, a quality farmhouse coffee table should last for years to come.
Should I choose a rustic, weathered look or a refined, vintage-inspired farmhouse table?
This decision comes down to the existing decor in your home and personal style preferences:
- Rustic tables have more unrefined nicks, cracks, paint flakes and imperfections. They have a raw, timeworn appearance.
- Vintage-inspired tables have a sanded smooth distressing, creating a more refined finish. Less imperfections for a classically aged style.
If your home leans modern or you want a soft farmhouse vibe, a vintage table likely suits better. If your style is casual, eclectic farmhouse, choose a rustic table with character marks.
Are farmhouse coffee tables hard to assemble?
Many mass-produced farmhouse coffee tables arrive fully assembled. For those requiring assembly, here are some tips:
- Carefully review included instructions before starting. Make sure all hardware is provided.
- Basic tools like screwdrivers, hammer, wood glue are generally all that’s needed.
- Go slowly and carefully, repeating steps if unclear. Don’t force pieces together.
- Doing assembly with a second set of hands is helpful for large tables.
For handcrafted, custom, reclaimed wood or antique coffee tables, professional delivery and setup is recommended to avoid damage.
Can I use a farmhouse style coffee table in a small space?
Definitely! Farmhouse coffee tables are versatile enough to work in spaces both large and small:
- Opt for a narrow rectangular plank table to save visual space in tight areas.
- Round or oval shapes with slim curved legs also suit small living rooms well.
- Look for tables with extra storage like shelves or drawers to maximize usefulness.
- Position the table so seating extends far enough beyond the edges for leg room.
- Stick to medium or small scale tables proportionate to the room.
With some thoughtful selection, farmhouse coffee tables can be a charming anchor piece even in compact rooms.
Should I buy real antique tables or modern farmhouse style?
Determining if genuine antique/vintage or new imitation farmhouse works best comes down to:
Budget – Antique tables are often one-of-a-kind and priced at a premium, while new mass produced tables are more affordable.
Condition – Old tables require more repairs and maintenance, versus new tables in ready to use shape.
Skill – Refinishing and restoring antique furniture requires know-how, patience and elbow grease.
Style – Old tables boast irreplaceable aged charm and quality hardwoods. New tables trade some uniqueness for accessibility.
Evaluate time, budget, skill level and style priorities. If you love the hunt and don’t mind imperfections, go for antiques. If you value convenience, go for modern farmhouse style.
Are farmhouse coffee tables durable enough for families?
Quality constructed farmhouse coffee tables absolutely can withstand regular family use:
- Opt for hardwoods like oak, maple, or pine which resist scratches and dents better than soft woods.
- Look for thick, substantial tabletops at least 1 – 1.5 inches thick.
- Seek out reinforced corner joinery and blocked table bases for stability.
- Avoid fragile accent features that protrude or easily break.
- Use furniture pads underneath accessories to prevent surface scratches.
- Promptly clean spills and don’t allow moisture damage.
- Touch up finishes whenever worn areas appear.
Taking some care to select a well-built table will ensure a long-lasting farmhouse staple.
Is it worth refinishing a thrifted table in farmhouse style?
Transforming a secondhand table with farmhouse charm can be extremely rewarding and affordable. However, not every piece is worth the effort. When evaluating, look for:
- Quality Bones – Sturdy hardwood construction without soft spots or damage. Avoid particle board or cheap veneers.
- Salvageable Structure – No major cracks, missing pieces, or broken joints. Table should be structurally sound.
- Potential Patina – Look for attractive age marks like old paint or stains that will show through refinished topcoats.
- Time Investment – Refinishing is hands on work, so make sure you can devote adequate time.
With the right found table, sanding back, staining, or milkwashing to achieve weathered farmhouse style can breathe new life into old furniture. Take your time to hunt down promising gems.
Bring Farmhouse Style Home
I hope this deep dive has equipped you with the knowledge and inspiration you need to seek out the perfect farmhouse style coffee table for your living room.
Farmhouse decor is a timeless look that brings cozy, vintage character into a space. With a reclaimed wood coffee table as your anchor piece, you can infuse your home with rustic farmhouse charm that your family will enjoy for years to come.
The options are plentiful, from distressed wood tables, to antique finds, repurposed furniture pieces and more. Now that you know what to look for to match your personal style, you can confidently assess options and make this important decor investment.
Of course, a new coffee table isn’t the only way to bring more farmhouse vibe into your home. But it’s an affordable way to get that casual, welcoming look in your living room without a major renovation.
Whatever your preferred flavor of farmhouse style, there is a charming coffee table out there waiting to become the next treasured focal point in your home. Happy antiquing!