Traditional
The traditional coffee table has a timeless style offering four legs, a rectangular shape and is usually made from wood. There typically is no storage and it is a basic functional piece of furniture to put in front of the seating area.
Storage
The coffee table with storage options comes in various styles and designs. It can offer storage drawers, a second shelf, or cubbies and baskets. This coffee table might be in the shape of a rectangle, square, circle, or even an oval. It can be constructed of wood, metal or acrylic with glass, wicker, rattan, etc.
Lift Top
The lift top coffee table is not your average coffee table. This table has storage and the top lifts up and moves toward you allowing you to comfortably work on a laptop, write or dine while still sitting on your sofa or loveseat. The typical shapes are rectangular or square, and wood seems to be the most common material used for this type of table.
Nesting
The nesting coffee table has smaller tables or ottomans that "nest" underneath the table, which can be pulled out and used. The smaller tables can be used separately to put beverages, books, or other objects on, and some have storage drawers. Nested ottomans are great for smaller kids to pull out and be able to sit at the coffee table, plus they also open up for storing items.
These tables can be round, rectangular, or square in shape, and can be made from wood, upholstered, metal and glass, and other materials.
Upholstered
The upholstered coffee table usually comes in a square shape. This type of coffee table can have a wooden frame with a tufted cushioned top, or it can be constructed of wood yet be fully upholstered in material with a tufted cushioned top that lifts up for storage. The latter design is also known as an ottoman and is a great place to store blankets, toys, and other items.