Aquarium Table

Such a unique idea... here is a dual purpose coffee table that incorporates an aquarium for all of your tropical fish that will certainly be a focal point of the room and conversation. The "Aquarium Coffee Table" has acrylic sides that provide clear viewing of the interior, while the removable tabletop of 1/4"-thick beveled tempered glass is large and sturdy enough for the typical daily coffee table action. The tank rests on a heavy-duty black acrylic base with lights in the base that illuminate the tank from beneath the bed of blue glass gravel. Comes with two-stage submersible filter pump and decorative plants. Aquarium Coffee Table 25-ga. With 36" sq. tabletop. Tank 15 1/2" H x 24" L x 24" W. $599.95 Aquarium End Table also available 15-ga 24" sq. tabletop. Tank 20" H x 15 1/2" sq $449.

I would personally use black rocks for an elegant pond affect. 

Little Drummer

Sometimes a trend sneaks up on you. By the time you notice its pervasiveness it is all around you.

In glossy publications like Architectural Digest and even at your local mass retailer (a sure sign of overexposure). Recently the object in question is the ceramic garden stool. Once reserved for Asian inspired interiors and Japanese gardens, this versatile item is popping up everywhere. And I do mean everywhere. Granted, the object itself is not new. Nor is its use in well-designed homes. But over the past year its popularity has soared to such a degree that it has become hard to open a magazine without noticing one tucked into the frame.

If you’re a trend watcher, you’ve no doubt noticed chinoiserie filtering down from luxe hotels to your neighbor’s dining room. As nouveau Asian works its way through the trade publications and high-end design firms it was only a matter of time before these iconic ceramic drums made their appearance in the mass market. And as we are wont to do, modern designers are adding a fresh spin on the iconic form. Classic white stools can still be seen serving as tables, ottomans and extra seating. But my favorite iteration is the mirrored variety making appearances in sleek hotel lounges and posh shops where it is left to the guest to decide whether to rest upon it or place a drink on its glistening surface.-via

Personal Touch of Glass

Creating your own personal coffee table and end tables can be endless....begin by looking around your home for a base you may already have, ie...old books stacked and topped with round glass can create an interesting conversational piece as well as display your collectibles. Select the size for your glass, this will depend on the size of your room. Your base should be the same height of your sofa and or chairs in the room. If you collect decorative boxes and they fit with the theme and your colors, this will make another great conversational piece. If you select a large size for the glass top, make sure you place your base stacks equally for balance.

Another idea for table tops is to use a round metal deco piece. Michael's usually carries these as well as Kirkland's. Choose a piece that doesn't have large holes in the deco, imagine placing a glass on the table top, or place a glass holder large enough to cover an area where a glass may be placed.

I was given a statue of an elephant which had a flat top for example, I painted it black and topped it with a small round glass top and placed a plant on top. It wasn't high enough for and end table, however, it makes a great accent piece placed in a foyer.

I always suggest round table tops because you don't want sharp corners which could be hazardous to children or you own legs. Rectangle shapes may be used if you are making a higher table such as a buffet table. Of course you height will take care of the hazard issues. The base for a buffet may be more difficult but still attainable, such as using large decorative statues which may have a flat area to place your glass for balance. These may be found at pottery yards. Good luck on your personal creations, send me pictures of yours and I will publish them to share your creative ideas.