This “Controversial” Furniture Trend Is Making a Comeback & We’re Here For It

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WORDS BY Kelsey Clark

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Published on February 17, 2023

From kitchen counters and tabletops to decorative trays and sculptures, marble has been the trending stone for years now. To paint you a picture, you can now find marble or marble-effect paper towel holders, toilet brushes, and coasters at retailers ranging from Target to CB2.

But lately, we’re noticing an interesting departure from contemporary 2010s marble in mainstream silhouettes in favor of something more authentic to the stone’s heyday in the 1970s and ’80s: brutalist marble furniture.

Rather than a delicate iron base and slim marble or faux-marble top like this, we’re seeing a trend towards more sculptural, low-slung, and ultra-modern designs reminiscent of the 1970s lounge craze. Brands like CB2 are leading the charge, with Pottery Barn, Lulu & Georgia, Crate & Barrel, Anthropologie, and more also getting in on the trend.

marble furniture

With sharp silhouettes, carved details, and matching bases, these dining, side, and end tables are more true to original brutalist design. For a quick refresh, MyDomaine defines brutalism as “an architectural style characterized by a deliberate plainness, crudity, and transparency that can often be interpreted as austere and menacing.”

Unsurprisingly, the look has always been a bit polarizing. It’s ultra-modern and borderline aggressive, particularly when overdone (i.e. a matching marble furniture set). It can almost read 1990s bachelor pad, especially if a leather sofa is involved.

marble furniture

With that said, we absolutely love the look on its own, particularly when balanced with softer silhouettes and warm, natural materials like walnut and rattan. For example, when styled as a stand-alone piece, a Carrara marble side table can essentially function as an art sculpture.

Keep scrolling to shop the ultra-cool trend, and remember: less is more here! Mix your marble piece with different shapes, materials, colors, and textures for an elevated, artful look.

1. Marble Plinth Coffee Table

Marble furniture

This beauty from Design Within Reach is about as brutalist as it gets, and we love it. The rich burgundy veining is beautiful, and it would look stunning topped with oversized coffee table books, fresh florals, and a wooden decorative object or two (for contrast, of course).

2. Travertine Cocktail Tables

Marble furniture

While not marble, these designer-loved travertine nesting tables from CB2 are definitely brutalist in style. Shop the look in three different heights for a layered, deconstructed coffee table moment, or pick up one for a small apartment or side table.

3. Round Emerald Marble Coffee Table

Marble furniture

For a hint of subtle color, we love this stunning round marble coffee table from CB2. With its sharp angles and T-shaped structure, the base checks the “brutalist” box, while the round top softens the look a touch. It’s a perfect piece for small living spaces or apartments!

4. Red Marble Stools

Marble furniture

The Jaxx side table from CB2 is equal parts furniture and art. Measuring just 18 inches tall, this is a great option if you’re on the fence about the marble look and just want to test the waters with a small, versatile piece.

5. Green Marble Side Table

Marble furniture

This green marble side table from Lulu & Georgia is full-on 1980s in the best possible way. With a cut geometric base and rich emerald color, it’s sure to make a statement. Pair it with a plush linen sofa and a wicker table lamp for softness.

6. Brown Travertine Coffee Table

Marble furniture

This Brutalist-inspired coffee table designed by VUUE for CB2 is sure to make a modern statement in any living space. We love the neutral, natural colorway and can picture it living next to an off-white linen sofa topped with plush pillows.

7. Round Marble Accent Table

Marble furniture

We absolutely love the neutral color palette and striking simplicity of this marble accent table from Pottery Barn. While still modern and Brutalist-inspired, it can easily blend with any design style, from coastal to mid-century. This is another great choice for those just looking to test out the look!

8. Pink Marble Side Table

Marble furniture

From the curved edge to the subtle slice of pink marble, his mixed-material accent table from Anthropologie is perfection. Style this next to a statement accent chair or sofa to house your glass of wine, cup of coffee, or latest read.

9. T Marble Side Table

Marble furniture

This compact T-shaped marble side table from CB2 checks every box for us: it’s compact for a subtle statement, it boasts a beautiful neutral palette that blends with any design style, and it comes in two different heights and colorways. Use it as a side table, nightstand, bathtub stool — the sky’s the limit.

10. Cream Marble Coffee Table

Marble furnitureThe natural cream color of this striking marble coffee table from Lulu & Georgia lends the perfect touch of softness to the sharp silhouette. Take notes from the brand and style it with earth tones like sage green and brick red, plus plenty of greenery and tonal pattern.

11. Marble Drum End Table

Marble furniture

This McGee & Co. piece will give you the best of both worlds: cool, modern marble and a soft, contemporary silhouette that’s brutalist-lite. Use it as a nightstand or a cocktail table next to your favorite cozy accent chair.

Want expert advice on your actual home, straight from an interior designer? Start with our style quiz to work with a design pro one-on-one.

Words by Kelsey Clark