5 Reasons Why Your Business Needs Side Table？

HI PALS. Let’s start this one off with a trivia fact (you know, in the event that trivia is ever a thing again, but I digress) — you know when you see or hear something for the first time and then you notice it everywhere? That’s called the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon, aka the frequency illusion. (I’ll hold for a second while you break out your pens and pencils.)

My frequency illusion kicked in recently when I was looking for styling inspiration for some new end tables. I was feeling overwhelmed with making my tables work in my space — my lamps felt way too big and tall, the surfaces felt crowed with ephemera, and I was just NOT feeling it — so I decided to peek through our archives to see how the actual pros on our team do it. AND Y’ALL, THERE’S A FORMULA. AND IT’S SO EASY. AND I LOVE MY TABLES NOW.

But WAIT! Before I get to the details, let’s just go over some classic living room rules on how to pick a side table that works best in your space:

1. Size: There aren’t a ton of rules on height — if you can, try to keep the top of your table roughly in line with the arm of your sofa or chair, give or take a few inches — but you definitely DON’T want your end table to be too deep. Make sure the depth of your table isn’t bigger than the depth of the sofa or chair it’s next to!
2. Materials: If you have a wood coffee table, consider bringing in a cement or metal end table. Mix things up to give your room a little bit of texture!
3. Visual Weight: If you’ve got a chunky sofa, bring in a piece with legs. If you’re trying to balance some open accent chairs, go for a drum table to ground the space.
4. Family Ties: Jess once said that you want your living room pieces to be “cousins, not siblings,” and BOY. THAT’S TRUE. Try and keep a common thread — whether that’s color palette, the era they’re from, or a structural detail — so you’re space will have that “who, me? I just naturally have great taste” vibe.

OKAY. Now that you know which end table will work in your design, let’s talk about how to make it look REALLY NICE, okay?

Hot Tip

Keep about 2-3 inches between your seat and your end table. You want to be able to set that glass, book, or whatever else you are holding down with ease.

For Small Tables: Book + Nature + Floor Lamp

FOLKS. IT’S THE FLOOR LAMP. The floor lamp is the thing that makes tiny side tables work. Open any design magazine for the next week and let that frequency illusion sink in. Every. single. tiny. table. will look like this: a book, a plant (or flowers, or incense, or anything natural) and a floor lamp…and it looks GREAT every time. It’s such a common mistake to try and over-style end tables, but y’all, take a deep breath and clear some stuff off.

And let’s also take a second to look at what makes each of these rooms above work: both leggy tables are balancing out a chunkier, grounded sofa. The round table on the left speaks to the hits of black in the room, the light wood coffee table (the full reveal here is so good), and it echoes the geometric shape of the pillows. On the right, we’re seeing a traditional silhouette that reflects the black metal base of the coffee table.

You didn’t think I was gonna let you get to the next styling formula without looking at some EHD projects, did you? I’M A HYPE MAN, BABY. Jess’ malachite end table is the perfect example of playing with scale: it’s a little lower than what we normally see, but it’s balanced by the height of the floor lamp. Similarly, Sara’s drum table is a small grounding force for her lighter-weight chairs in this open concept space. And minimalists can rejoice: look at that styling! So simple, so easy.

PS. If you’ve been similarly awakened and now you’re like, “holy crap, I just need to clear off some space and grab a floor lamp to make my space work,” Julie rounded up 39 of our favorites. (You know what else you’ll see in that post? End tables styled with books, one natural element, and a lamp nearby.)

For Larger Tables: Book + Nature + Framed Art + Table Lamp

“But Caitlin, I’m smart and bought an end table with enough space for a lamp!” GIRL, I have styling tips for you, too! Kicking it off with a big one: if you’re doing a lamp with a lot of visual weight, like the two above, pop that puppy next to your sofa and style towards the outside of your end table.

When you have such a tall piece, levels are the name of the game. On the left, we have a tall lamp, a mid-sized piece of the art and piece of nature, and a low stack of books. But on the right, with a narrower table, Ginny was able to fake the illusion of additional levels by grounding her art and nature with a bold printed book. In any case, WOW, I have been way over-styling my tables!!!

DIFFERENT RULE: you know how I just told you to put your lamp next to the sofa? NOT SO FAST. If you’re rocking something with a super thin base, the opposite applies. Why? IT JUST LOOKS BETTER. Again: it’s the frequency illusion. I could not find a single photo of lighter-weight lamp that wasn’t on the outer edge of the end table. THESE ARE THE SECRETS FROM A STYLIST THAT THEY’VE BEEN HIDING FROM US.

But again, y’all get it: less is more. Break out a book. Break out some flowers. Bring in a framed piece of art, if you have one (and if not, just bring in extra height with a few more books). That’s all you need! Step away from the HomeGoods — you do not need more knickknacks to fill up your space! (Someone please print this out and show it to me when I’m standing in line at HomeGoods.)

For Doubles: Fake a Coffee Table

MY FAVORITE USE. End tables are often a little more affordable than their full-sized coffee table cousins, so grab two (or three, if your space is enormous) and let them live in front of your sofa. Added bonus: if you want to shake things up a bit, you can repurpose these lil cuties as nightstands (or, you know, as actual side tables), which make them a more budget-friendly choice for those of us who are frequently shaking things up at home.

I could probably write a novel on coffee table styling, but a picture’s worth a thousand words…so here’s a 30-second step-by-step video that Emily made on how to decorate your coffee table, which is probably the educational equivalent of about a billion of my blog posts.

ANYWAY. Now that we’ve gone over how to pick an accent table and how to style it, let’s dive into some EHD-approved picks! (PS. Thanks to my whole team for helping me assemble these graphics and links. Sometimes I go a little overboard with the pinning — there are just so many good tables, guys!!! — and I need help assembling everything. That said, I looked literally everywhere on the internet and these are the cutest ones for every style at every price point!)

Kicking it off with our tiered options, for those who need (or want) a little storage space:

1. Bar Cart | 2. Rattan 2-Tier Tray Table |3. Ferdinand Round Wood Accent Table |4. Smoked Glass End Table | 5. Cyrus Side Table | 6. Peggy End Table | 7. Hillside Side Table |8. Terrace Pill Side Table | 9. Costa Mesa Rattan Wrapped Table |10. Sayer End Table | 11. Profile Side Table | 12. Haverhill Round Wood End Table | 13. Cane Nightstand | 14. Glasgow Metal End Table |15. Mid-Century Art Display Side Table |16. Porto Round Wood Accent Table |17. Eclipse Side Table | 18. Wyatt Nightstand |19. Terrace Side Table | 20. Geo-Marquetry Side Table | 21. Tanner Round End Table

I own #14 and have used it both as an end table and a nightstand — it’s the perfect price and size. (Also, how cute is number #1? Talk about double duty!) I also love how Em styled #19 in this classic weekend makeover.

1. Ceramic Drum Side Table | 2. Chandler Stool | 3. Pyronia Rattan Cage Accent Table |4. Braeswood Wicker Side Table | 5. Scalloped Ceramic Side Table | 6. Profile Ceramic End Table | 7. Bruciata Blackened Wood Side Table | 8. Fiberglass Terrazzo Side Table | 9. Stassi Side Table |10. Hourglass Concrete Accent Table | 11. Fluted Side Table | 12. Ivan Round End Table

How handy are the storage capabilities on #4? And as a postmodern lover, I’m such a fan of the shape of #9 and the fluting on #11.

1. Mayfair Side Table | 2. Happy Natural Bunching Table | 3. Vintage Rope Side Table |4. Taylor Bone Inlay Side Table | 5. Cyrus Side Table | 6. Building Table (High) | 7. By Your Side Table | 8. Maggi Side Table | 9. Horseshoe Ivory Lacquered Linen Side Table | 10. Side Piece in Neon Orange |11. Charee Mirrored Cube Table | 12. Ghita Glass Top End Table | 13. Slit Table Oblong |14. Glasgow Metal End Table | 15. Oxford Black Marble Side Table

SURPRISE, I LOVE A WATERFALL TABLE. #2, #9, and #10 are speaking my language! (Also, is orange having a moment? I feel like I love it all of a sudden.) I also know that Em had her eye on #4 back around Memorial Day…did she grab it? Stay tuned for an upcoming living room reveal and find out 🙂

1. Hyacinth Side Table | 2. Bowler Side Table | 3. Turn Tall Side Table | 4. Shuffle Side Table | 5. Tweneboa Wood Side Table | 6. Cocotte Side Table | 7. Lierskogen Side Table | 8. Roundhouse Side Table | 9. Serriola Side Table | 10. Dita Carved Side Table | 11. Hera Side Table | 12. Zena End Table | 13. The Fetish Side Table | 14. Li’l Something Side Table | 15. Glasgow Side Table | 16. Willy Plaster Side Table | 17. Foss Side Table | 18. Mercer Street Side Table | 19. Illusion Side Table | 20. Gladom Side Table | 21. Circula Low Side Table | 22. Bandera Side Table | 23. Round Metal Side Table | 24. Ora Side Table | 25. Weiland End Table | 26. Triller Side Table | 27. Birdy Side Table | 28. Bingo Stool | 29. ‘Don’t Leave Me’ Side Table | 30. Ellwood Side Table | 31. Oath End Table | 32. Maestro Side Table | 33. Mesa Side Table

AHH. #4 is SO beautiful. The price point for #20 can’t be beat, but I’m obsessed with the thin legs and #25 and the chunky base of #33.

1. Porto Wood End Table | 2. Berkeley End Table | 3. Metalwork Table | 4. Atelier Side Table | 5. Hafley End Table | 6. Nordkisa Table | 7. Langford End Table | 8. Mitzi Table | 9. Amherst End Table | 10. Guthrie Side Table | 11. Bone Inlay Side Table | 12. Valia Side Table

AH, one final roundup for all you private folks out there who want a place to stash all those remotes and random cords. #11 is a from a great resource if you’re looking to buy bone inlay directly from an independent business instead of from Anthropologie. And remember Emily’s Parisian hotel suite? Grab #12 and recreate the look in your own home.

OKAY. WE’RE DONE. Just a casual reminder (as your resident Craigslist and FB Marketplace fanatic), if you see anything you love and you don’t want to pay full price, be sure to search for vendor and item names daily! That’s how Bowser scored a great deal on her end tables (that she used as nightstands, but still).

Buuuuuuut that’s all she wrote! Let’s chat about your styling snafus and about how you’re going to totally win trivia night with that frequency illusion knowledge. See ya in the comments!!!

Opening Photo Credit: Photo by Zeke Ruelas | From: Silver Lake Hills Living Room Reveal

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Are you looking to add more functionality and style to your living room? There are dozens of different ways to do so with pieces of furniture, wall art, color coordinating rugs, shelving… and also with side tables. These small yet mighty pieces of furniture can transform your space and enhance your overall decor simply by placing them alongside your other pieces. In this article, we will discuss the many benefits of having side tables in your living room. The different ways to utilize them and integrate them into your design, as well as the various different types available to you.

Why Are Side Tables Important?

Side tables are essential in any living room because they add functionality and style. They are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes. Here are all of the biggest pros to using side tables in your living room!

Additional Surface Area

The additional surface area a side table provides in your living room is among its most important advantages. Modern Side tables are perfect for holding drinks, snacks, and remote controls, freeing up your coffee table for other items.

Storage Space

Many side tables have built-in storage, such as shelves, drawers, or cabinets side tables. This extra storage space can store books, magazines, or other items you want to keep close at hand.

Versatility

Side tables are incredibly versatile and can be used for various purposes. For example, you can use a side table as a small bedroom nightstand or a plant stand in your entryway.

Style

This section will discuss the many stylistic benefits of having a side table in your living room.

Decorative

Side tables are an excellent way to add decorative flair to your living room. They come in various styles and materials, making finding one that matches your existing decor easy.

Color and Texture

Side tables are available in a wide range of colors and textures, making it easy to find one that complements your existing decor. You can use a side table to add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral space or to bring in a new texture or material.

Choosing the Right Side Table

When selecting a side table for your living room, several factors must be considered.

Style

The style of your side table should complement the overall decor of your living room. If your living room has a modern look, you might opt for a side table with clean lines and a sleek design. A side table with ornate details and a warm finish might be a better choice if your living room has a more traditional feel.

Size

The size of your side table should be proportionate to the size of your home living room. A large side table in a small room can make the space feel cluttered, while a small side table in a large room can feel lost and insignificant. Choose a side table size that suits the room comfortably after measuring the area where you intend to place it.

Material

Side tables come in various materials, each with its unique look and feel. Wood side tables are a classic choice that can add warmth and texture to your living room. Metal side tables can add an industrial edge, while glass side tables make a space feel light and airy. Consider your living room's overall look and feel when selecting the material for your side table.

Maintaining Your Side Table

To keep your side table looking great for years to come, it's essential to maintain it properly. Following are some pointers for maintaining your side table:

Clean Regularly

Dust and debris can accumulate on your side table, making it look dull and dirty. To keep your side table looking its best, clean it regularly with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution.

Avoid Moisture

Moisture can damage the finish of your side table, so be sure to keep it away from wet areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If you spill a drink on your side table, clean it immediately to avoid damage.

Use Coasters

To prevent scratches and other damage to the surface of your side table, use coasters for drinks and other items. This will help protect the surface and keep it looking great.

FAQs

Q: What is the purpose of a side table?

A: A side table is a small, freestanding piece of furniture typically used as a surface to place items on. It can also provide additional storage space and decorative flair to a room.

Q: Can a side table be used for other purposes besides holding items?

A: Yes, a side table is incredibly versatile and can be used for various purposes. For example, it can be used as a small bedroom nightstand or plant stand in your entryway.

Q: What materials are side tables made from?

A: Side tables are available in various materials, including wood, metal, glass, and acrylic. The material you choose will depend on your style and the overall decor of your living room.

Q: Do I need more than one side table in my living room?

A: That depends on the size of your living room and the number of seating areas you have. If you have multiple chairs or sectional sofas in your living room, you may consider having a side table near each so everyone can easily access their items. However, a single side table may be sufficient if you have a smaller living room with only one seating area.

Q: What materials are side tables typically made of?

A: Side tables can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, glass, and plastic. Some side tables may feature a combination of materials, such as a wooden top with metal legs. The material you choose will depend on your style and the existing decor in your living room.

All in all, side tables are a staple of most living rooms, and there's a reason for that. They're practical, functional and of course beautiful when melded with the rest of your decor! Side tables come in a plethora of styles ranging from modern to traditional, rustic to contemporary, so no matter your aesthetic there is sure to be a side table that fits your needs. 

If your living room needs a refresh, or you just want to add some new side tables into the mix, be sure to take a look at Decorsify.com. We have a wide variety of furniture items for all different styles, including, of course, side tables! So, come and take a look at what we have to offer and as always, happy decorating!

While you’re here, take a look at some of our other most-popular blog posts:

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