The phrase identifies a specific type of furnishing commonly found in living rooms: a low, horizontal surface designed for placement in front of seating, manufactured by Lane Furniture. These pieces are typically used for holding beverages, books, decorative items, or providing a surface for casual activities. A particular model might feature distinct mid-century modern design elements, characteristic of Lane’s output during that era.
These furnishings represent a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Their value stems from their utility as a central gathering point within a living space, and potentially from the historical significance and collectibility associated with the Lane Furniture brand, known for its craftsmanship and innovative designs over several decades. Owning such a piece connects individuals to a legacy of American furniture design.
This background provides a foundation for examining aspects of collecting, restoring, and incorporating such items into contemporary interior design. The subsequent sections will delve into identifying specific characteristics, assessing condition, and exploring design integration strategies for pieces of this kind.
The following recommendations offer guidance for individuals seeking to acquire, maintain, or restore a particular furnishing. These suggestions are designed to maximize its longevity and aesthetic appeal within a living space.
Tip 1: Verify Authenticity: Scrutinize the underside and interior surfaces for manufacturer’s marks, style numbers, and production dates. These markings are crucial in confirming the origin and potentially the value of the furnishing.
Tip 2: Assess Structural Integrity: Examine the frame, legs, and joints for signs of instability, warping, or previous repairs. Address any structural weaknesses before investing in cosmetic restoration.
Tip 3: Evaluate Veneer Condition: Carefully inspect the veneer surfaces for chips, cracks, or lifting. Minor veneer damage can often be repaired; however, extensive damage may necessitate professional restoration.
Tip 4: Consider Finish Compatibility: When refinishing, select products compatible with the original wood type and finish. Incompatible finishes can damage the veneer or alter the appearance of the piece.
Tip 5: Implement Preventative Maintenance: Regularly dust the surface with a soft cloth and avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or excessive humidity. These measures will help preserve the finish and prevent warping.
Tip 6: Research Specific Model Information: Utilize online resources, furniture guides, and historical catalogs to gather information about specific models. This research can inform restoration decisions and improve the accuracy of any repairs or refinishing efforts.
Tip 7: Seek Professional Consultation: For extensive repairs or refinishing projects, consult with a qualified furniture restorer. Professional expertise can ensure that the piece is properly restored and its value is preserved.
Adherence to these recommendations will contribute to the long-term preservation and enjoyment of the focal point. Proper assessment, care, and restoration techniques are essential for maintaining both its structural integrity and aesthetic beauty.
With these tips in mind, consider the design principles discussed in the following sections to seamlessly integrate the furnishing into various interior styles.
1. Wood Species
The selection of wood species is a critical factor in the construction and valuation of Lane Furniture coffee tables. The type of wood used directly influences the furniture’s durability, aesthetic appeal, and susceptibility to damage, as well as informing restoration approaches.
- Walnut
Lane Furniture frequently employed walnut, prized for its rich, dark color and attractive grain patterns. Pieces crafted from walnut often command higher prices due to the wood’s inherent value and aesthetic qualities. Its density provides good resistance to dents and scratches, making it a suitable choice for high-use surfaces such as coffee tables. Walnut veneer was also common, applied over a less expensive core material to achieve the desired appearance at a more economical price point.
- Oak
Oak, another common choice, offers a lighter color palette and a prominent grain texture. Lane Furniture tables utilizing oak often showcase a more rustic or traditional aesthetic. Oak is renowned for its strength and durability, making it a practical choice for furniture intended for long-term use. The open grain of oak can also readily accept stains and finishes, allowing for customization and adaptation to various interior design schemes.
- Pecan
Pecan, a member of the hickory family, presents a moderately hard and durable wood option. Its color ranges from light to medium brown, often featuring distinctive grain patterns. While not as common as walnut or oak, pecan wood pieces offered by Lane Furniture display a unique visual character. Its moderate density provides acceptable resistance to wear and tear, while its workability makes it suitable for intricate detailing and shaping.
- Cherry
Though less frequently used in Lane coffee tables compared to walnut and oak, cherry wood presents a warm, reddish-brown hue that deepens over time, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Cherry’s smooth texture and fine grain provide an elegant surface for finishes, showcasing the craftsmanship of the furniture. It’s moderately hard and stable, offering good durability for everyday use.
The chosen wood species significantly impacts the overall look, longevity, and value of these furnishings. Understanding the specific characteristics of the wood used in a Lane Furniture coffee table allows for informed decisions regarding restoration, care, and integration into various interior styles. Furthermore, it informs decisions about cleaning products, refinishing options, and appropriate structural repairs.
2. Mid-century design
Mid-century modern design significantly shaped Lane Furniture’s coffee table production. The aesthetic principles of the era clean lines, minimalist forms, and functionalism directly influenced the shape, materials, and overall design ethos of these pieces. Lane Furniture, responding to the post-war demand for modern, affordable home furnishings, adopted these design tenets, resulting in coffee tables characterized by their simplicity and practicality. For example, the use of tapered legs, a hallmark of mid-century design, is a recurring motif in Lane’s coffee table models from the 1950s and 1960s. This design choice provided visual lightness and contributed to the overall sleek silhouette, aligning with the mid-century emphasis on unadorned elegance.
The emphasis on natural materials, particularly wood, is another crucial connection. Lane Furniture frequently employed walnut and oak veneers, showcasing the beauty of wood grain and texture. These materials were selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their durability and affordability. The incorporation of geometric patterns, subtle ornamentation, and the occasional use of contrasting materials, such as metal accents or glass inlays, further exemplify the mid-century modern influence. Examining specific models reveals the pervasive influence of designers like Edward Wormley and George Nelson, whose minimalist yet functional designs inspired many mass-produced furniture items of the time.
Understanding the mid-century modern design principles underpinning these coffee tables is essential for proper restoration and integration into contemporary interiors. Recognizing the stylistic intent allows for informed decisions regarding refinishing, reupholstery, and pairing with other furniture pieces. Furthermore, appreciating the historical context enhances the value and appreciation of these furnishings, transforming them from mere functional objects into embodiments of a significant design movement.
3. Dovetail joinery
Dovetail joinery represents a hallmark of quality construction in furniture making, particularly relevant when assessing the enduring value and structural integrity of Lane Furniture coffee tables. This interlocking joint design, characterized by its distinctive dovetail-shaped pins and tails, provides exceptional strength and resistance to pulling forces, signifying a commitment to longevity and craftsmanship.
- Strength and Durability
Dovetail joints are significantly stronger than simpler joinery methods like butt joints, as the interlocking shape mechanically resists separation. This is crucial for a coffee table, which endures regular use and weight. In Lane Furniture coffee tables, dovetail joints are often found connecting drawer boxes or securing corner supports, areas subject to considerable stress. The presence of dovetail joints suggests a deliberate choice to enhance the furniture’s ability to withstand the rigors of daily use, ensuring its structural integrity over time.
- Aesthetic Appeal
Beyond its functional benefits, dovetail joinery can contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a piece. While often concealed within the furniture’s structure, exposed dovetail joints can be a sign of skilled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Some Lane Furniture designs subtly showcase dovetail joints as a decorative element, highlighting the maker’s expertise and adding visual interest. This deliberate exposure elevates the furniture’s perceived value, indicating a focus on both form and function.
- Indicator of Quality
The presence of hand-cut dovetail joints typically indicates a higher level of craftsmanship and a more substantial investment in production. While machine-cut dovetails exist, hand-cut joints often exhibit subtle variations and imperfections that distinguish them from mass-produced alternatives. Examining the dovetail joints on a Lane Furniture coffee table can provide valuable insight into the quality of its construction and the care taken during its manufacture. The tightness and precision of the joints are key indicators of the overall quality.
- Restoration Considerations
When restoring a vintage Lane Furniture coffee table, understanding the nuances of dovetail joinery is essential. Damaged or weakened dovetail joints require specialized repair techniques to maintain their structural integrity. Improper repair can compromise the joint’s strength and diminish the furniture’s value. Preservation of the original dovetail joints is generally preferred, as it retains the furniture’s historical character and craftsmanship. Skilled restoration involves carefully disassembling, cleaning, and reassembling the joints, often with the addition of appropriate adhesives and reinforcing elements.
In conclusion, dovetail joinery is more than just a construction method; it’s a testament to the quality and longevity of Lane Furniture coffee tables. Its presence signifies a commitment to durability, aesthetic detail, and skilled craftsmanship. When evaluating a Lane Furniture coffee table, careful examination of the dovetail joints offers valuable insights into its construction, restoration needs, and overall value.
4. Finish quality
The condition and type of finish applied to a Lane Furniture coffee table are paramount in determining its aesthetic appeal, durability, and overall value. The finish serves as a protective layer against moisture, scratches, and UV damage, while also contributing significantly to the furniture’s visual character. Evaluating the finish quality provides insight into the piece’s history, care, and potential restoration needs.
- Original Finish Integrity
Maintaining the original finish is often desirable for collectors and enthusiasts. The original finish reflects the manufacturer’s intended aesthetic and provides a tangible link to the furniture’s history. However, original finishes often exhibit wear and tear accumulated over decades. Assessing the extent of wear, including scratches, fading, and crazing, is crucial in determining whether preservation or restoration is the appropriate course of action. Heavily damaged original finishes may detract from the piece’s value, necessitating a sympathetic restoration approach that respects the original character while addressing structural or cosmetic issues.
- Type of Finish
Lane Furniture employed various types of finishes, including lacquer, varnish, and oil-based coatings. Each finish type possesses unique properties affecting its appearance, durability, and restoration requirements. Lacquer finishes, common in mid-century modern furniture, provide a smooth, glossy surface but can be susceptible to cracking and yellowing over time. Varnish finishes offer greater durability and water resistance, while oil-based finishes provide a more natural look and feel. Identifying the finish type is essential for selecting compatible cleaning products and restoration techniques, ensuring that the chosen approach preserves the furniture’s integrity.
- Refinishing Quality and Techniques
If refinishing is necessary, the quality of the work directly impacts the furniture’s appearance and value. A poorly executed refinishing job can detract from the piece’s aesthetic appeal and potentially damage the underlying wood. Proper refinishing involves stripping the old finish, repairing any surface imperfections, and applying a new finish that replicates the original look and feel. Skillful application of the new finish, including appropriate sanding, staining, and top coating, is essential for achieving a professional result. Professional refinishers possess the expertise and equipment necessary to restore the finish to its original luster, enhancing the furniture’s value and longevity.
- Maintenance and Preservation
Proper maintenance is crucial for preserving the finish quality of a Lane Furniture coffee table. Regular dusting with a soft cloth and occasional cleaning with a mild soap solution can remove surface dirt and grime. Avoiding harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and excessive moisture exposure is essential for preventing damage to the finish. Applying furniture polish or wax can provide an additional layer of protection and enhance the finish’s luster. Implementing preventative measures and addressing minor damage promptly can extend the life of the finish and maintain the furniture’s aesthetic appeal for years to come.
In summary, the finish quality of a Lane Furniture coffee table is a critical factor influencing its aesthetic appeal, durability, and value. Whether preserving the original finish, undertaking a sympathetic restoration, or implementing preventative maintenance measures, understanding the nuances of finish types and techniques is essential for ensuring the long-term enjoyment and appreciation of these furnishings.
5. Leg style
Leg style significantly defines the overall aesthetic and structural stability of a Lane Furniture coffee table. The design of the legs contributes directly to the furniture’s visual character and its ability to support weight effectively, influencing both its functional performance and its integration within a specific interior design scheme.
- Tapered Legs
Tapered legs, a common feature in mid-century modern designs, impart a sense of lightness and elegance. They gradually narrow from top to bottom, creating a streamlined silhouette that complements the clean lines often associated with Lane Furniture coffee tables. The angle of the taper and the material used (typically wood) contribute to the overall style, ranging from subtle sophistication to a more pronounced, geometric aesthetic. Tapered legs can also affect the perceived height of the table, influencing its compatibility with various seating arrangements.
- Splayed Legs
Splayed legs, which angle outwards from the table’s center, provide enhanced stability and a distinctive visual flair. This style, also prevalent in mid-century designs, offers a wider base of support, preventing the table from easily tipping over. Splayed legs can be crafted from wood or metal, with the material and finish affecting the table’s overall style. The degree of the splay can range from a subtle outward angle to a more dramatic, eye-catching design element.
- Hairpin Legs
Hairpin legs, typically made from metal rods bent into a distinctive “V” shape, offer a minimalist and industrial-chic aesthetic. These legs, popular in the 1950s and 1960s, provide a clean and unobtrusive support system, allowing the tabletop to take center stage. Hairpin legs are often attached to the underside of the table with screws or bolts, providing a sturdy connection. The gauge of the metal and the finish (e.g., painted, chrome, raw steel) can influence the table’s overall style.
- Straight Legs
Straight legs, a more traditional design element, provide a simple and functional support system. These legs, typically made from wood, offer a more solid and grounded appearance. Straight legs can be square or rectangular in cross-section, with the dimensions and finish affecting the table’s overall style. While less common in mid-century modern Lane Furniture coffee tables, straight legs may be found in designs that blend traditional and modern elements.
In conclusion, the selection of leg style is a critical design element in Lane Furniture coffee tables, influencing both the furniture’s aesthetic appeal and its structural performance. Each style contributes a distinct visual character and varying degrees of stability, making leg style a key consideration when evaluating, restoring, or integrating a Lane Furniture coffee table into a living space.
6. Storage options
The inclusion of storage options in a Lane Furniture coffee table significantly enhances its functionality and value. Rather than serving solely as a surface for placement, the integration of drawers, shelves, or hidden compartments transforms the furniture into a multi-purpose unit capable of decluttering a living space. This design element directly addresses the practical needs of homeowners by providing convenient storage for items such as remote controls, magazines, books, or blankets, thus reducing visual clutter and promoting a more organized environment. The effect is a more versatile and desirable piece of furniture. A specific example includes Lane’s “Acclaim” line, which often featured a single, long drawer accessible from either side of the table, facilitating easy access for multiple users. This integration of storage demonstrates a clear understanding of consumer needs and a design philosophy centered around practicality. The presence of such features increases the appeal and market value of the piece.
Further consideration reveals the impact of storage options on the aesthetic integration of the coffee table into a living room. A coffee table with integrated storage allows for a cleaner surface, reducing the need for additional side tables or shelving units to store everyday items. This contributes to a more streamlined and cohesive design aesthetic. Additionally, the design of the storage compartments themselves can enhance the overall visual appeal of the piece. For instance, drawers with dovetail joinery and concealed hardware demonstrate attention to detail and quality craftsmanship, elevating the furniture beyond its purely functional role. Clever storage solutions, such as lift-top compartments or sliding doors, can also add a unique design element and increase the user’s interaction with the furniture. Understanding the original intent and execution of these storage features is crucial for preserving the coffee table’s functionality and aesthetic value during restoration efforts.
In conclusion, the strategic incorporation of storage options in Lane Furniture coffee tables represents a deliberate design choice aimed at enhancing both practicality and aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of storage directly addresses the need for organization and decluttering, while also contributing to a cleaner and more cohesive interior design. Recognizing the importance of these features is paramount for proper restoration, maintenance, and valuation. Challenges may arise in repairing or replacing damaged storage components, requiring specialized skills and knowledge of furniture construction techniques. However, the added functionality and value provided by these features justify the effort involved in their preservation. This understanding connects directly to the broader theme of appreciating the craftsmanship and design intent behind vintage furniture pieces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lane Furniture Coffee Tables
The following questions and answers address common inquiries regarding Lane Furniture coffee tables, covering aspects of identification, value, restoration, and care.
Question 1: How can a Lane Furniture coffee table’s authenticity be verified?
Authenticity is typically confirmed through the presence of a style number, serial number, or manufacturer’s mark stamped or affixed to the underside of the table or inside drawers. Cross-referencing these markings with Lane Furniture catalogs or online databases can further substantiate the piece’s origin and production period.
Question 2: What factors influence the valuation of a Lane Furniture coffee table?
Valuation is influenced by several factors, including the table’s design (e.g., specific model, rarity), condition (e.g., presence of damage, original finish), wood species (e.g., walnut commanding higher prices), and market demand. Tables in excellent original condition generally command higher prices than those requiring extensive restoration.
Question 3: What are the common issues encountered during the restoration of a Lane Furniture coffee table?
Common restoration challenges include veneer repair or replacement, finish restoration (removing old finishes and applying new ones), structural repairs (addressing loose joints or damaged legs), and hardware replacement (sourcing or replicating original knobs and pulls). Careful attention to detail is essential to maintain the table’s original character.
Question 4: How should a Lane Furniture coffee table be cleaned and maintained?
Routine cleaning involves dusting with a soft, dry cloth. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap solution (e.g., dish soap diluted in water) can be used, followed by drying with a clean cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, and excessive moisture. Applying furniture polish or wax periodically can help protect the finish.
Question 5: What is the significance of dovetail joinery in a Lane Furniture coffee table?
Dovetail joinery is a sign of quality craftsmanship and indicates that the piece was constructed with attention to detail and durability. The interlocking shape of dovetail joints provides exceptional strength and resistance to pulling forces, contributing to the table’s longevity.
Question 6: How can a Lane Furniture coffee table be integrated into a contemporary interior design?
A Lane Furniture coffee table can be incorporated into various interior styles by considering its design elements (e.g., wood species, leg style) and pairing it with complementary furniture and accessories. Its mid-century modern aesthetic can blend well with minimalist, Scandinavian, or eclectic design schemes.
These answers provide a concise overview of key considerations regarding Lane Furniture coffee tables. Further research and consultation with experts may be necessary for specific situations.
Considerations for purchasing will be outlined in the following section.
Concluding Remarks on Lane Furniture Coffee Tables
This exposition has elucidated various facets pertaining to Lane Furniture coffee tables. Key characteristics such as wood species, design principles, joinery methods, finish quality, leg style, and storage options were examined to provide a comprehensive understanding. Authentication, valuation, restoration, and maintenance were also addressed, equipping the reader with practical knowledge.
The ongoing appreciation for Lane Furniture coffee tables reflects a sustained interest in mid-century modern design and enduring craftsmanship. Continued research, preservation efforts, and informed purchasing decisions will ensure that these furnishings remain valued components of interior spaces for generations. Further exploration into specific models and historical contexts is encouraged.
