Malmesbury Elm Coffee Table

Which sofa does it suit? A coffee table should be about two thirds the length of the sofa, so 140cm suits a sofa of 190cm to 220cm. Leave 40cm to 45cm between the sofa and the table.

Footprint. The A-frame legs splay outwards, so the base is a little wider at the floor than the 60cm top. On a rug, choose at least 200 x 300cm so the whole table sits on it.

Solid elm, a hardwood with an interlocking grain that resists splitting, warmer in tone than oak and more varied from board to board.

A-frame trestle base. A splayed frame at each end keeps the corners clear, and a full-length crossbar ties the base together so the top stays rigid.

It is a two person lift, for indoor use only. No two tables are identical, and yours will not match the photograph exactly.

Use coasters, dust along the grain with a soft dry cloth, and wipe spills promptly. Refresh with clear furniture wax once or twice a year, avoid silicone polishes, and keep the table away from radiators and strong direct sun.

Elm varies in grain, figure and tone, and that variation is the timber working as intended.

Style it in three loose groups: books with a small object on top, a tray with a candle, and foliage in dark glazed stoneware. Keep the space underneath sparse so the trestle stays on show.

Warm elm loves warm neutrals such as off white, oatmeal and clay, with cushions in olive, sage or terracotta.

Allow 14 working days. Delivery is by our specialist furniture courier, who will call ahead to arrange a time. See our delivery, returns and guarantees pages for full details.

0% interest-free finance is available at checkout, and our price match promise applies. For a holiday let, ask about trade accounts.