Bristol Coffee Table is a neo-classical delicacy
Published May 30th, 2009 | Written by Minta Interiors | Photography by Hickory Chair

With any type of art, inspiration is almost always necessary for the creative process. The same holds true when designing furniture. This can come in the form of natural surroundings, previous designs or a specific period in history. When designing the Bristol Coffee Table, Hickory Chair was inspired by the simple and functional lines of the neo-classical period of architecture. This style was popular during the latter part of the 18^th century and the early part of the 19^th century. Some familiar names from this period include Chippendale, Hepplewhite and Sheraton.

One look at the elegant simplicity of this table and you can see why neo-classical style is still popular in furniture design. The table features a clear, beveled glass top, slim tapered legs and very little ornamentation. The glass top is easy to clean, visually expands a room, reflects light and allows any pattern on a rug underneath to show through. During this period gilded and painted furniture became fashionable. The Bristol table comes in a standard gold or silver leaf finish that has been antiqued to create an aged look. However, painted and hand decorated finishes are also available. There are three sizes to choose from; a 42 inch rectangular shape, a 42 inch square and a 46 inch oval.

While somewhat formal in appearance, the clean, straight lines of this table would work just as well in a modern or contemporary room. Imagine this table finished in the silver leafing and placed in the middle of a grouping of sleek black leather chairs. Perhaps you have a long and lean couch covered in ivory suede. This table, finished in the gold leaf, would be the perfect accent piece. Even choosing one of the painted finishes will warm up a contemporary space.

The Bristol table would also be an elegant addition to a master bedroom sitting area. The oval shape will be beautiful placed between two upholstered chairs. Choose a finish that will complement your bedding and upholstery.

The simple, straight lines of the Bristol table allow you to combine it with many other pieces from different periods of design. Due to the lightweight appearance and slim lines you may not want to use this table in a room full of heavy, dark, over-sized furniture. However, it works very well with furniture from the Art Deco era. The linear lines are a nice contrast to the curves found in Art Deco design. Several of the available finishes will be beautiful alongside the black lacquer of many Art Deco pieces. The same holds true for Beidermeier furniture. The light colored wood, black accents and soft curves so often a part of Beidermeier design are a perfect match for this table. If you prefer a room full of carved or elaborately decorated furniture, the lightness of the Bristol table might be a nice respite from all the “fancy” furniture. Just be sure to take scale and proportion into consideration when combining these different designs.

Choosing furniture can be a daunting task. Hickory Chair has made the process a little easier by creating furniture that can be used in many different rooms and settings. The neo-classical Bristol Coffee Table is one such example.

Catalog item: Bristol Coffe Table