FontanaArte Coffee Table 1932, Two Float-Glass Discs on Nickel-Plated Brass, 24 in

The FontanaArte Coffee Table 1932 is a compact round glass table for the side of a sofa, beside a reading chair or in a hotel lounge corner, where a full-size coffee table would crowd the room. Two clear float-glass discs, each 15 mm thick, are threaded on a single brushed nickel-plated column: a top surface for a drink, a lamp or a stack of books, and a smaller middle disc that holds magazines or a tray within easy reach. Because both levels are transparent, the table takes up almost no visual space, and the column and round base read as one clean metal line from floor to top.

Quick facts

• Product: Coffee Table 1932, round two-tier glass occasional table
• Brand: FontanaArte, Milan, Italy
• Item number (MPN): F2710TB150TR10
• Type: Round side table and small coffee table with two glass tiers
• Best for: beside sofas and lounge chairs, bedsides, reading corners, hotel suites, lounges and waiting areas
• Height: 24 in (61 cm)
• Diameter: 24 in (61 cm)
• Glass: two clear float-glass discs, 15 mm (0.6 in) thick
• Frame: brushed nickel-plated brass column and round base
• Materials: glass, metal
• Certification: ETL (Intertek) pending
• Designer: Gio Ponti (1932)
• Styles: Modern, Transitional, Contemporary, Minimalist

FontanaArte lists ETL (Intertek) certification for this table as pending.

Materials and build

The two tiers are float glass, the flat, optically even glass used for quality furniture tops, cut into discs 15 mm (about 0.6 in) thick. At that thickness the edges show a fine green line that catches the light, and the discs feel solid when you set something down. The column and base are brass with a brushed nickel-plated finish: a soft satin sheen rather than a mirror shine, so fingerprints and small scuffs show less and the metal sits easily next to both warm and cool materials.

The design is deliberately simple: one vertical column, one heavy round foot, two discs. There are no legs to trip over and no corners, which makes it a good choice in tight walkways and in homes with children or pets moving around the furniture. Treat it as an occasional table for everyday objects rather than a place to sit or stand.

Size and placement

At 24 in (61 cm) tall and 24 in (61 cm) across, the table sits at roughly the height of a typical sofa arm or lounge-chair arm, which is the comfortable height for reaching a cup without leaning. As a general guide, leave 2 to 4 in (5 to 10 cm) between the table edge and the side of the sofa or chair, and about 30 in (76 cm) of clear walkway around it in a traffic route.

In front of a loveseat or a pair of small armchairs it can also work as a compact round coffee table; in that position, keep about 16 to 18 in (40 to 46 cm) between the glass and the seat front. Two can be used as a matched pair at either end of a long sofa, or as bedside tables where a wall-hung lamp leaves the top free.

Where it works

Living rooms and reading corners. Beside a sofa or a single armchair it gives a place for a lamp, a glass and a book without blocking the view of the rug or floor. The open, two-level form keeps a small room from feeling furnished to capacity.

Bedrooms. As a nightstand it suits beds with a low profile, where a solid cabinet would look heavy. The lower disc holds a book or a charging tray.

Hotels and hospitality. In guest suites, lounges and bar seating areas it gives each chair its own surface, and the round, cornerless form is practical in spaces with constant movement.

Offices and waiting areas. In reception areas, executive offices and client lounges it pairs with lounge chairs to hold coffee cups and reading material, and its clear glass keeps a small waiting area feeling open.

Style and pairing

The table reads as quietly modern: glass and satin metal, with no decoration. It suits Modern and Minimalist rooms, adds a crisp note to Transitional schemes with upholstered sofas and wood floors, and works in Contemporary spaces next to bouclé, velvet or leather seating. Brushed nickel pairs well with chrome, steel and pale stone; it also sits comfortably against warm walnut or oak when you want contrast. A patterned rug underneath shows through both glass tiers, so the table can sit on a bold floor without hiding it.

Why choose the Coffee Table 1932

• Two transparent tiers in 15 mm float glass, so the table adds surface without adding bulk.
• A single column and round foot: no legs, no corners, easy to walk around.
• Sofa-arm height of 24 in (61 cm), right for drinks, books and a small lamp.
• A design by Gio Ponti, co-founder of FontanaArte, still made by the company today.
• Equally at home in a living room, a bedroom or a hotel lounge.

Care

Clean the glass with a soft microfibre cloth and a mild glass cleaner sprayed onto the cloth, not onto the table, so liquid does not run down onto the metal. Wipe the brushed nickel-plated column and base with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth and dry it straight away; avoid abrasive pads, polishes and ammonia-based or acidic cleaners on the metal. Use coasters under hot or wet items and felt pads under ceramics and lamps to protect the glass surface, and lift objects rather than dragging them across it.

Frequently asked questions

What size is the FontanaArte Coffee Table 1932? It is 24 in (61 cm) tall and 24 in (61 cm) in diameter.

Is it a coffee table or a side table? FontanaArte names it a coffee table. At 24 in high and 24 in across it is most often used as a side table next to a sofa or chair, and it can also serve as a small round coffee table in front of a loveseat or two armchairs.

What kind of glass is used? Two discs of clear float glass, each 15 mm (about 0.6 in) thick.

What is the frame made of? The column and base are brass with a brushed nickel-plated finish.

Can I use it as a nightstand? Yes. Its height suits most beds, the top holds a lamp or clock, and the lower disc keeps a book or phone close.

Which rooms does it suit best? Living rooms, reading corners, bedrooms, hotel suites, lounges and office waiting areas, anywhere a small, open table is better than a bulky one.

Will it work on a patterned rug? Yes. Both tiers are clear, so the pattern shows through and the table does not interrupt the floor.

Is it certified? FontanaArte lists ETL (Intertek) certification as pending for this table.

Can it be used outdoors? It is designed for indoor use. Keep it out of the weather to protect the glass and the nickel-plated finish.

Who designed it? Gio Ponti, the Italian architect who co-founded FontanaArte in 1932, the year in the table's name.

Trade & project orders

Interior designers, architects and hospitality buyers can join the MetropolitanDecor trade program for trade pricing. We also prepare quotes for multi-unit and project orders; contact us with your quantities.

Please note: Because this item is made to order or specially sourced, it is final sale.