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Cocktail Tables: The Centerpiece of Entertaining
Interior designer Joseph Pubillones shares tips for selecting and styling the perfect cocktail table.
Apr. 11, 2026 at 7:00am
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The cocktail table is the centerpiece of any stylish and functional living space for entertaining.Palm Beach TodayCocktail parties are a beloved social tradition, but ensuring there's enough space on the cocktail table for guests' drinks can be a challenge. Interior designer Joseph Pubillones offers guidance on choosing the right cocktail table size and shape for your living space, as well as how to style the tabletop to create a visually interesting and functional centerpiece for entertaining.
Why it matters
The cocktail table is a key piece of furniture that sets the tone for a home's living area and can make or break the comfort and flow of a cocktail party. Pubillones' expert advice helps homeowners select the ideal cocktail table and style it to perfection, ensuring their space is both stylish and functional for hosting guests.
The details
Pubillones recommends cocktail tables that are about one-third the length of the sofa or seating area. The shape should complement the room's dimensions, with square or round tables working best in spacious rooms and rectangular or oblong tables creating a more intimate vibe in narrower spaces. The table height should be 16 to 20 inches, close to standard seat height. Cocktail tables can be as creative as the home's overall style, from bespoke wood designs to vintage trunks to contemporary metal and glass. When styling the tabletop, Pubillones suggests using a tray to organize accessories, varying the heights of items, and layering decor like books, flowers, and small sculptures to add visual interest.
- Pubillones' article was published on April 11, 2026.
The players
Joseph Pubillones
An award-winning interior designer based in Palm Beach, Florida, and the owner of Joseph Pubillones Interiors.
What they’re saying
“Cocktail parties! Who doesn't love one? Have you ever been invited to a cocktail party? And so you settle down and are given a drink, only to find there is no space on the cocktail table or end table to rest your glass?”
— Joseph Pubillones, Interior Designer
The takeaway
Selecting the right cocktail table and styling it thoughtfully can transform a living space into an inviting, functional hub for entertaining. Pubillones' expert guidance helps homeowners create a centerpiece that reflects their personal style while also meeting the practical needs of hosting cocktail parties.
