Gone are the days when coffee tables were round. Now, they come in different shapes and sizes to complement all types of contemporary interior dcor. Thinking of investing in a contemporary coffee table? Let us take a look at your options.

There are still a lot of classic wooden coffee tables in the market, but manufacturers and designer are now introducing more materials such as bamboo. Some coffee tables are also upholstered with high-quality leather or fabrics (or a combination of the two) - perfect for matching all of the patterns in your room.

Chrome and aluminum are now also used for the legs of contemporary coffee tables. These materials are usually dyed with translucent dyes that allow its natural shine to come through while protecting it from rusting. You can easily have your coffee table personalized so you can design it yourself, from the material to the size to the color of the stain. Some people even carve their family initials into the exquisite wood used for specially made coffee tables.

You will typically spend less than $600 dollars on a good coffee table, although made-to-order pieces can go up to the thousands (largely because of the quality of materials and labor that goes into making one). If you want to buy high-quality coffee tables for much less, then watch for garage sales - some homeowners may want to dispose of their old pieces and, with some imagination and handiwork, you can turn a piece into something uniquely yours. You should also read the paper for seasonal and closing-out sales at furniture shops. You can probably get as much as 50 to 70 percent off the regular price. Watch out for defects in sale items though"the wood may have irreparable chips or stains.