Perhaps a large round table might mean a rug is not at all necessary. It could be a metal tray table, or carved wood like Rebecca Mitchell Interiors illustrates. Ideas also to consider, using multiple tables can be found at http://www.houzz.com/multiple-coffee-tables. I also agree with comments above that some color is needed on the walls. You could then hang round mirrors, or an unusual curved shape like RMI shows above.

At first glance I think that if you are going for a modern look, I would suggest nesting tables instead of a coffee table to create interest. Here are a few ideas for you: http://deciture.com/the-amazing-set-of-3-wood-nesting-table/ http://deciture.com/gilbert-galvanized-nesting-tables-set-of-3/ http://deciture.com/flouressa-mirror-top-nesting-tables-set-of-3/ http://deciture.com/brighton-mirror-top-nesting-tables-set-of-3/ Hope this helps you!

How wonderful of you to do something so nice for your parents. The only thing I would say is be sure you can return it should they not like it, we all have different tastes and you just never know. That being said how about something like this from Joss & Main...also consider an ottoman that opens up for storage and is flat enough on top to act as a table. This one was one Overstock I believe you can flip the tops to be table or footstool.

Hello there, If you don't want to consider wood as a countertop, there are several other options available : 1. Wrought iron jaali 2. Corian solid surfaces (susceptible to heat) 3.Marble/granite/quartz 4. Semi-precious stone slabs 5. PU paint 6. Sandstone 7. Concrete with oxide paints(IPS) 8. Glass mosaic etc.. Note : wood is timeless and lends a warmth like no other. It will end up in one form or other in every house Regards, Aurum Ideas and Spaces Bhubaneswar