Buyer’s guide to choosing a side table

Have you finally found the perfect sofa and reading chair for your living room, but something’s still missing? Perhaps, that corner is crying out for a side table to accentuate your decor and complete your cosy space.

Whether you’re looking for a petite table for that unused corner, a larger surface for storing books or a piece to wow your guests, this guide will help you make your room sing.

Where will your side table go?

A corner or not, choosing an end table starts with finding the right spot for it. Think about where it would be the most useful and convenient in your room by assessing:

• Areas where you tend to arrange your ‘me-time retreats’ with a cup of tea or a book but often wish you had a proper table
• Dimensions of the chosen spot to ensure a new side table will fit without making your space hopelessly disorganised
• Your decor and personal style coordinated with existing furniture to create a pulled-together look

Side table shape

The shape is all about balancing form and function. Round accent side tables are perfect for small areas where you want maximum surface area without sharp corners.

For larger areas, a square or rectangular piece may suit better. It meshes well with most decor items and provides ample space for lamps and decorative accents. Rectangular tables, in particular, offer the most versatility and come in varied proportions.

Side table height

You want your end table to allow you to reach whatever item you place on its surface effortlessly. When selecting one, keep these tips in mind:

• For a bedside table, settle on a height of 65-75 cm. This range lets you comfortably grab and put items on the tabletop when lying in bed or sitting up. Shorter options (up to 65 cm) work well if you like reading or using electronics in bed.
• In the living room, aim for 50-60 cm. It’s a reasonable level, whether you’re sitting on a sofa, a lounge chair or an ottoman. Lower heights are best for serving snacks or playing board games.
• For the entryway, opt for a higher side table(70-80 cm). This will let you avoid bumping, yet it’s low enough to place items when coming home.

Materials

For living room tables, you have so many materials to choose from! Each has its unique look and style that can dramatically impact the vibe of your space:

• Wood. Natural oak is warm, rustic and gorgeously textured. Such surfaces pair beautifully with most decor styles, from mid-century to bohemian.
• Stone. Granite, marble or travertine have amazing natural patterns and a high-end feel. But their textures are less homey than wooden ones.
• Metal. Wrought iron, steel and aluminium have a distinctive character. Distressed paint finishes on metal side table shelp soften the hard material and give it a vintage feel.
• Glass. This is a common reflective choice, but glass tables are not recommended for homes with kids or pets.

To take a direct look at fabulous side tables that speak to you, view furniture collections at Oak Furniture Store & Sofas. There are many hardwood options, unexpected accents, beautiful patterns and everything in between to give your space a personalised touch for rustic, bohemian or farmhouse styles.