Household Essentials 8079-1 Coffee Table Review: Modern, Durable, and Stylish

Description

Household Essentials Jamestown Round Coffee Table Ashwood Rustic Wood Grain and Black Metal Review

I’ve had the Household Essentials Jamestown Round Coffee Table Ashwood Rustic Wood Grain and Black Metal (Model Number 8079-1) in my living room for a few weeks now, and let me just say—it’s been a journey. If coffee tables could talk, this one would say, “I’m versatile, stylish, and built to last, but hey, I’ve got my quirks too!” Here’s my detailed take on it, including both the good and the not-so-good.

My Experience Using the Coffee Table

Picture this: I’m sitting on my couch with a cup of coffee, a book, and my cat trying to claim the table as her personal throne. This table not only held up to my daily clutter but also made my living room look more put together. The 31.5-inch diameter tabletop is perfect for stacking a few magazines, a plant, and a candle without feeling overcrowded. The engineered wood top with its distressed ashwood laminate finish has a rustic charm that blends beautifully with my neutral-toned decor.

When assembling it, I was pleasantly surprised by the sturdy steel X-frame base. It’s stable enough to keep everything secure, even when my hyperactive toddler uses it as a makeshift racetrack for his toy cars. No wobbles, no creaks—just solid performance. However, it’s not without its flaws. The taupe finish does have a tendency to show smudges and fingerprints, and while it’s easy to clean, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re a neat freak like me.

Features That Stood Out

The laminate surface is a godsend for someone who spills coffee as often as I do. A quick swipe with a damp cloth, and voilà—it’s like the spill never happened. The rounded edges are another highlight, especially for families with kids. No sharp corners means fewer bruises and tears (from both kids and adults). I also liked the open frame design, which keeps the room feeling airy and spacious compared to bulkier options.

The downside? While the industrial style is trendy, the table’s lightweight build (17 pounds) makes it prone to shifting if you lean too heavily on one side. It’s not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you’re planning to use it for anything other than light decor and casual use.

Comparing It to Competitors

I’ve owned a few coffee tables in my day, and this one stacks up nicely against pricier models like the IKEA Lack Coffee Table and the Sauder North Avenue Coffee Table. Unlike the IKEA option, the Jamestown table feels more premium thanks to its steel frame and faux wood finish. Compared to Sauder’s offering, this one has a more minimalist design, making it easier to pair with a variety of decor styles. However, if you’re looking for extra storage, you might find it lacking since it doesn’t have any shelves or drawers.

Cost Analysis and Value for Money

For its price point, this table offers excellent value. You get a modern industrial aesthetic, solid construction, and easy maintenance. While it doesn’t have the bells and whistles of high-end tables, it delivers where it matters most. If you’re on a budget and need a coffee table that’s both functional and stylish, this is a great pick.

Design and Build Quality

The design is where this table truly shines. The distressed ashwood finish adds character, while the black powder-coated steel base gives it a modern edge. It’s lightweight enough to move around but still sturdy enough to support up to 100 pounds. That said, the laminate surface might not hold up to heavy wear and tear over the years, so it’s best suited for light to moderate use.

Pros

• Stylish and Versatile Design: The distressed woodgrain and industrial steel frame fit seamlessly into various decor styles.
• Kid-Friendly Features: Rounded edges make it safe for households with children.
• Easy to Clean: The laminate top requires minimal maintenance and wipes clean effortlessly.
• Lightweight but Sturdy: Easy to move around while remaining stable during use.
• Affordable Pricing: Offers great value for its price, making it accessible for budget-conscious buyers.

Cons

• Smudge-Prone Finish: The taupe laminate surface tends to show fingerprints and smudges easily.
• Limited Storage: No additional shelves or drawers, which could be a dealbreaker for those needing more functionality.
• Lightweight Build: Can shift slightly if leaned on heavily, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• Packaging Issues: Some reviews mention faint scratches upon arrival due to minimal protective wrapping.
• Not Stain Resistant: The surface isn’t designed to resist stains, so spills need to be cleaned promptly.

What Comes with the Product

• Coffee table top
• Steel X-frame legs
• Assembly hardware (screws, washers, etc.)
• Assembly tool (hex key)

Assembly Ease or Complexity of Setup

Setting up this table is refreshingly simple. Follow these steps:

1. Lay out all the parts and hardware to ensure nothing is missing.
2. Attach the steel legs to the pre-drilled holes on the underside of the tabletop using the provided screws and washers.
3. Secure the X-frame crossbars to the legs for added stability.
4. Tighten all screws using the included hex key, ensuring the frame is firm and doesn’t wobble.
5. Flip the table over, check for stability, and you’re done! The whole process takes about 20-30 minutes, even for someone with minimal DIY skills.

Warranty & Support Information

The table comes with a limited warranty, covering manufacturing defects. While specifics can vary, this typically includes issues like faulty welds or hardware. For support, you can contact Household Essentials customer service, which is known for being responsive and helpful. Keep your purchase receipt handy, as it might be required for warranty claims.

If you need replacement parts or have questions about assembly, the company’s website and customer service team are reliable resources.

Additional information