Wood, metal or acrylic? What shape side table? Shelves or drawers? What is the best height for end tables? With so many elements to consider, choosing the right side table can be daunting. So, we’ve created some simple guidelines to help you get the casting right.
Determine the right height for end tables
First, let’s tackle one of the most important considerations: height. Ideally, a side table should be equal to or just below the arm of the seat it’s next to. Not only does this positioning create a nice visual flow in the room, the table is within easy reach for setting a drink down or turning on a lamp. Standard sofa arm heights can range between 24 and 32 inches, so get out your measuring tape.
Narrow down the overall look
If you’re already on the hunt for the perfect accent table, you know how hard it can be to settle on a look. When in doubt, it helps to think in terms of adding contrast to a room. Take a look at your existing furniture. Do you have a lot of upholstered pieces or bold patterns? You might want to offset the soft edges and visual texture with a more clean, streamlined design. If your aesthetic slants modern, go with something more chunky and ornate.
Select an end table shape
Next, something as subtle as table shape can make a huge difference in the look of your room. Just think of your side table hunt like a Jenga game. What fits the space best? From round tables to square tables, each shape has it’s pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider about each shape table.
Round Tables
- Perfect for small spaces
- The eye is naturally drawn to round objects
Square Tables
- Offer more surface space for decor
- Fit naturally tucked into corners
Organic Tables
- Enhance overall look or aesthetic
- Bring balance to a square room with boxy furniture
Consider end table storage & function
You’ll want to make sure the functionality of the table you choose is tailored to your needs. If you think you need extra storage space for remotes, games, tablets, books or magazines, look for a table with drawers or open shelves. Also, make sure your end table has enough surface area for accessories like lamps, coasters, and other decorative accents.
Layer end tables for a cohesive look
Generally speaking, we think every seat should have its own side table or share one with another seat. If you’re worried about layering multiple side tables, remember that there’s no law that says the style, shape or finish has to match. In fact, we prefer a more mismatched, collected look for extra depth, dimension, and personality. Whatever side table you end up with, we know you’ll love the finishing touch and polish it adds to your room.
Need more furniture inspiration? Check out our YouTube channel or read these related posts to learn more:
- 15 Best Living Room layout Tips
- Small Living Room Ideas to Make the Most of Your Space
- The Truth about Coffee Tables and Why You Need One
- Why You Should Incorporate Different Furniture Heights Into Your Room
To stay up to date with all things How to Decorate, sign up for our monthly newsletter.
This post was updated in April 2022.
Audrey Hyman
Hello,
I’m interested in finding out the name of the side table used in the first picture. It’s square shaped and seems to be a walnut color. I’d appreciate any help you can give me.
Thank you,
Audrey Hyman
Mallory Thomas
Audrey,
Unfortunately, I don’t have the details on that side table. However, we have a few similar options like our Suzanne Kasler Palisades Side Table and our Andrews Pedestal Accent Table that share the square shape and walnut finish you mentioned.
Happy Decorating,
Mallory
Christina Brewton
Great Post…!
I would LOVE to see more updates as Ruby grows! My son is 3. As someone mentioned above, most of the stuff in your living room would be fair game to him, especially that table behind the sofa! And while he hasn’t taken to climbing bookshelves (like your bar cabinet) he’d have brought the step ladder to that the second I wasn’t looking! I feel defeated and have given up on “style” for the next 15 years (more things were broken in my house growing up when I was a teen than when I was a toddler) =P
Katrina
Thanks for the helpful tips for side tables..
Bennie
Thanks for the helpful tips for side tables. I love the tangerine print armless chair with the Garden Seat as an end table. Do you mind sharing the fabric name and manufacturer of the chair?
Bonnie Coward
Great advice about side tables! Could you do another column on rugs? I need rugs to cover the floor in oddly shaped rooms and square spaces. I have lived in several old houses. The hearth sticks out into the room and heating/ac comes through floor vents which leaves a rectangular room with a square that needs covering. You have great looking rugs but none of them are square!!!
Donna
A very thorough overview with great information! The visuals along with your explanations are so helpful. Your rooms and examples are just beautiful.
Caroline @ How to Decorate
Thanks Donna!
Kim
Could you please tell me the name of the square table with the basket on the lower shelf? Thanks!
Caroline @ How to Decorate
Kim,
That’s our Morgan End Table.
Happy Decorating!
Monica Lavin
This is great advice for picking a side table! It can be so challenging to find the perfect fit for a room. But I love all of your pics! They definitely add a polished touch to any rom.
Caroline @ How to Decorate
Thanks Monica!