BH | Studio Woodbury Square Coffee Table

Plank tops on iron frames come from the workshops and mills of the industrial age, where tables had to be strong, plain and easy to mend. Those working pieces found their way into houses long ago, and the pairing of honest wood and dark metal has stayed with us because it asks for so little.

This one is a broad square, big enough to serve two sofas at once. The top is made of solid wood boards, sealed so the grain and knots show through in mixed honey tones while the surface is protected from everyday use. It sits in a black-coated iron frame with a low rail running round all four sides, which braces the legs and gives the table a sturdy, settled stance. Non-marking caps under each foot protect the floor.

Its clean lines suit a farmhouse family room, a loft with brick and big windows, or a contemporary living room that wants some warmth. Put it between two facing sofas, where it takes a tray of mugs, a board game, the weekend papers and the occasional pair of feet without fuss; it works as a low bench at the foot of a bed too. Honey pine and black iron look great with a leather sofa, a wool plaid and an enamel lantern.