Whether you need to set down a drink or grab the remote, a simple side table can make all the difference. They sit beside sofas and accent chairs to provide a convenient surface for everyday items.
To keep your space comfortable and practical, opt for a table that’s about the same height as the chair or sofa it sits next to. Our collection includes both round and square end tables to suit your style.
Size
Whether it's a beverage holder, a place to set your remote or a spot for displaying picture frames and decor, the right side table can bring convenience and balance to your living room layout. However, finding the perfect piece can be easier said than done because there are many different options and factors to consider, such as size, shape, and function. Luckily, this quick and simple guide to side tables will help you make the best choice for your home.
The most important consideration when choosing the right side table for your space is its size. You want to be sure that the height of the table is in proportion to the sofa or chair it will be placed next to, as a mismatched silhouette can throw off the look and feel of your room. The table should be 18 to 24 inches tall, ideally the same height as the chair or sofa arm.
Beyond the overall height of your chosen table, you should also take into account its width. A narrow side table can work well in tight spaces or as part of a pair, while a standard-width option can serve as a more substantial surface for holding drinks, books and more. Finally, be sure to leave enough room for comfortable movement around your living room, as a too-narrow or too-wide side table can impact both the functionality and flow of your design.
Shape is another important factor to keep in mind when shopping for a new side table, as it can help define the silhouette of your space. Round side tables are great for tight spaces and coordinating with curved furniture pieces, as their soft curves add visual fluidity to your layout. They’re also easy to nestle in corners and pair well with upholstered chairs and couches for a cohesive look. If you’re looking for a more traditional style, rectangular or square side tables are an ideal choice. They can be more functional than round or irregular-shaped tables because they offer more surface space for drinks, books, remotes, and other everyday items.
Shape
As their name implies, side tables sit beside sofas and chairs and enhance a room’s overall design. To choose the right piece, think about size, shape, and storage. Then, take into account your preferred style and colour palette to find a look that fits your decor.
Your side table's height is vital; it should match or be lower than your sofa's armrest. This ensures that you can comfortably place a lamp on it without straining to reach. A side table should also be able to support a drink, book or remote without feeling too top-heavy. To achieve this, choose a slim-profile and lightweight table with a small footprint.
Choosing the right shape is also important to avoid creating an awkward layout or a lopsided design. For example, if your living room is full of boxy furniture pieces, add visual balance with a round side table. Round tables also work well in tight corners and between accent chairs, allowing you to create intimate seating nooks. Their curved lines blend seamlessly, enhancing the sense of harmony and movement in open floor plans.
End and side tables are available in a variety of shapes, sizes, finishes and base types to suit your design aesthetic. Whether you want a sleek modern table with clean lines and a metal frame or a rustic side table with classic details like trestle bases and shiplap accents, there’s something for everyone. You can even mix and match different pieces for a layered look.
If your main concern is the amount of storage space you need, consider choosing a side or end table with drawers or shelves. These features are ideal for holding things like books, magazines, picture frames, and other decorative accessories. Plus, they make it easy to keep your side tables or end tables looking tidy and organised at all times.
Material
Whether used to hold books, remotes and chargers or simply as a spot for a table lamp, side tables are furniture staples that add convenience to any seating arrangement. As a result, there are a lot of different designs, sizes, and materials to choose from, so it's important to consider how the table will fit with your overall decor plan. While many people opt for matching end and side tables, it's also perfectly acceptable to choose mismatched options as long as they share the same style and are of a similar height, keeping the table tops within easy reach of your sofa or chair.
The material of your side table can have a big impact on the overall look and feel of your space. For instance, wood side table is a timeless choice with plenty of finishes to suit any design, while metal provides a sleek and modern alternative. You can also find tables made from glass, wicker or other durable materials.
When choosing the right material for your side table, it is important to factor in five key areas: durability for daily wear and tear, weight and stability, ease of cleaning and maintenance, style fit with your decor, and budget. Typically, solid wood side tables offer the best mix of all these factors. They are durable, can be repainted to match your decor and will age beautifully over time. However, they may be a bit heavier than other options and can be pricier.
Other materials for the side table include rattan, reclaimed wood, and ceramic. Reclaimed wood pieces are often hand-woven, resulting in an organic look that blends well with any room style. Glass side tables provide a light, transparent look that can make a space feel larger. They are also good for small spaces since they take up less visual space than other tables. Finally, ceramic side tables are a versatile option that can be used as coffee or accent tables for a clean and elegant finish.
Styling
Adding side tables for the living room is an easy way to keep essentials within reach. A simple table can hold drinks, remotes, or books and is a convenient spot for a reading lamp as well. These tables can also help round out seating vignettes and enhance overall living room design. When choosing a side table, consider the material and style to help make your space more appealing.
Typically, the right amount of side tables for a living room is one to two. A pair of these pieces can fit in a wide range of seating arrangements, while three tables would require a more spacious room defined by oversized couches and chairs.
If your space allows for a pair of side tables, opt for a style that matches or complements each other. Matching tables will add symmetry to a seated arrangement, but you can also experiment with asymmetrical options to elevate the look of a room and showcase your own unique style. For example, you can mix a wood tone and metal finish on different tables to create an eclectic aesthetic.
To complete the look of a living room, consider styling your side tables with additional decor items. For example, you can set a ceramic vase filled with fresh or dried flowers or a stack of decorative books on the tabletop. If you have a more traditional end table, styling it with a candle or plant will also complement its design and add a cosy feel to a seating area.
Another option is to use a nontraditional end table, like a bar cart or a bookcase, as a side table for the living room. This can add fun and a sense of originality to the space and be a focal point for the entire layout.
When choosing the best end tables for the living room, it is important to keep their practicality in mind. Ensure that they are a good height for people to sit comfortably, and choose the right style of material for your home. With a refined selection of side tables for living rooms, it is easy to find the perfect addition to any seating vignette.
