DHP Parsons 3537196 Coffee Table Review: Stylish, Affordable, and Easy Assembly

Description

Honest Review of the DHP Parsons Modern Coffee Table, Black Wood Grain Black Coffee Table, Black Oak

The DHP Parsons Modern Coffee Table has been a part of my living room for a few weeks now, and I must say, it has been quite the addition. I had been looking for a minimalist, budget-friendly coffee table that would complement my contemporary decor, and this little gem seemed to fit the bill. With its sleek black oak finish, water-resistant laminated surface, and simple yet functional design, it’s been a surprising mix of pros and cons.

My Experience with the Coffee Table

Picture this: movie night, popcorn in one hand, a soda in the other, and my dog attempting to steal the snacks. The 39-inch wide surface of this table comfortably held everything I needed, from a remote to a couple of decorative items, all without looking cluttered. The PVC laminated hollow core makes it super light, so when my dog decided to push it around the living room, I didn’t break a sweat moving it back. However, the lightweight nature of the table—while convenient for rearranging—also made it feel a bit on the flimsier side.

The black oak woodgrain finish, while visually appealing, does seem prone to scratches, especially if you’re one to drag things across it. I learned this the hard way while sliding a ceramic vase across the surface. That being said, cleaning it is a breeze. A simple wipe with a damp cloth, as suggested, and voila—it’s as good as new.

Comparing It to the Big Names

I’ve seen coffee tables that cost 3-4 times as much, and while they do offer premium materials like solid wood or metal accents, they lack the simplicity and lightweight charm of the DHP Parsons table. For example, IKEA’s similar offerings may feel sturdier, but they’re often heavier and more complicated to assemble. On the other hand, this table’s straightforward assembly (just screw in the legs!) was a lifesaver for someone like me who gets stressed at the sight of an instruction manual.

Features I Loved

The water-resistant finish is a game-changer. Spilled a drink? No problem. The table’s construction allows you to clean up messes without leaving watermarks. Its rectangular design makes it perfect for small spaces, such as apartments or dorms, as it doesn’t overwhelm the room.

However, I do wish the 50-pound weight capacity were higher. You can’t exactly load it up with heavy coffee table books or electronics without worrying about the table bowing over time. This limitation makes it less versatile compared to sturdier competitors.

Design and Build Quality

The modern, no-frills design is its strongest asset. The legs, while not the sturdiest, are well-aligned and easy to attach. The 0.75-inch tabletop thickness, while sufficient for light use, doesn’t inspire confidence for long-term durability under heavy usage. Despite this, the painted espresso base color and laminated finish make it look far more expensive than it actually is.

In summary, the DHP Parsons Modern Coffee Table isn’t perfect, but for its price point, it delivers on its promises. If you’re looking for a lightweight, aesthetically pleasing piece for light to moderate use, this coffee table might just be the one for you.

Pros

• Budget-Friendly: Great price-to-quality ratio for those looking to decorate on a budget.
• Easy Assembly: Attaching the legs takes just minutes—no tools required.
• Minimalistic Design: The straight-leg style and black oak woodgrain finish fit well in modern or small spaces.
• Water-Resistant Finish: Perfect for accidental spills and easy maintenance.
• Lightweight Build: Easy to move around if you like rearranging furniture frequently.

Cons

• Limited Weight Capacity: Can only hold up to 50 pounds, making it less suitable for heavy items.
• Flimsy Feel: The lightweight design sacrifices sturdiness, which might be a concern for families with kids or pets.
• Scratch-Prone Surface: Though visually appealing, the laminated surface is susceptible to scratches if not handled with care.
• Not Built for Longevity: Hollow core construction might not withstand years of heavy use.
• No Customization Options: The lack of alternate finishes or colors limits its appeal to specific decor styles.

What Comes with the Product

• 1 x DHP Parsons Coffee Table (Black Oak Finish)
• Pre-assembled screws integrated into the legs

Assembly Ease or Complexity

1. Unbox the Coffee Table and ensure all components are present.
2. Locate the four pre-assembled screws attached to the legs.
3. Align each leg to its corresponding pre-drilled hole on the tabletop.
4. Manually twist the legs into place, ensuring they are firmly secured. No additional tools are needed.
5. Double-check that the legs are stable before placing any items on the table. The entire process takes 10 minutes or less!

Warranty & Support Information

The DHP Parsons Modern Coffee Table comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship but excludes damage caused by misuse, abuse, or normal wear and tear. For support, customers can contact Ameriwood Home directly via their official website or hotline. Ensure you keep a copy of your purchase receipt and the product model number (3537196) handy for quicker assistance.

Additional information