Came across this site tonight that sells kits to build interactive LED tables. Would be a lot of soldering, but results would be cool. Rather than a coffee table I could see doing a bar top using these too.
Ouch, $400 for that. Maybe for someone that is not into electronics, but I think I would rather make my own. It is very cool. The one thing I do not like is lead free solder. It does not melt very easy. That is just from doing assembly for several hours a day for several month gets you. I you do get one let us know how it goes.
I doubt I buy the kit, would be hard to fit in to the Arts and Crafts decor. Sent the link to a buddy though. He's gotten into building lasers for laser shows, is just up his alley.
Darren,
That is cool! I previously saw it here: http://www.instructables.com/id/Interactive-LED-table/
(lots of creativity there - and a few crazies!) I was surprised at the cost too, but the thought that went into it does deserve to be rewarded.