Side Tables

Side tables give you a handy spot to set a glass of sweet tea, keep the remote within reach or rest a book after a long day outside. Whether you’re furnishing a farmhouse living room, making room beside your favorite recliner or adding a bedside table to a guest room, start with how you’ll use the space. A living room side table should sit close enough to your chair or sofa that you can reach it comfortably without blocking the walkway. As a general rule, look for a tabletop near the height of the seat’s arm, then check the width and depth against the floor space available. Small side tables can help make tight corners more practical, while a larger end table may suit a roomy seating area. Before choosing a size, measure the spot and leave enough clearance for doors, footrests and folks passing through. The right side table layout can make everyday routines a little easier without crowding your room. Think about what needs to stay close at hand: a reading lamp calls for enough tabletop space and access to an outlet, while books, glasses and a coffee mug each need a steady place to land. If storage is on your list, compare side tables with shelves or drawers to see which arrangement fits your needs; open storage keeps frequently reached-for items handy, while enclosed storage helps keep small belongings out of sight. Shape matters, too. Round side tables can soften the look of a seating area, and square or rectangular end tables can line up neatly beside a sofa or along a wall. For a comfortable, pulled-together room, consider how the table’s height, shape and finish work with the furniture you already have. Check the dimensions, care directions and intended placement before making your choice, especially if you’re planning a spot on a porch rather than indoors.