Why is it important to consult buying guides before investing in furniture? Can't we simply choose a fancy side table that appears to complement our couch from an online store? Indeed, we have that freedom, but it could come at a cost.

As we've learned from our nightstand buying guide, we often overlook important details and prioritize the aesthetic appeal of furniture. The consequence? Endless remorse after the purchase. This comprehensive side table buying guide aims to provide you with essential considerations to prevent any "style awkwardness" in your home.

All these hanging organizers feature strong boards to support the weight of your belongings safely and to keep the shelves from losing shape. They also have useful side pockets to hold your smaller items while giving you easy access to the contents. The elegant, minimalist style means they can be employed openly, and they will blend into your decor with ease. Ideal for storing sweaters, shirts, knitwear, pants, handbags, shoes, hats, socks, ties, etc. Also, they are all collapsible, meaning that they can be easily stored when not in use.

Size Matters.

Remember this cardinal rule: before purchasing any furniture, gather accurate measurements of the existing items you own. These measurements should include, but are not limited to, the dimensions of your paired sofa, couch, or chair, the appropriate lamp size, and the designated corner for placement.

Match the Heights

The height of your side table in relation to your sofa or chair arms is crucial information for selecting a suitable option. Just as we pay attention to matching heights when choosing nightstands, the two heights should align closely, with no more than a 2-inch difference. For your living room sofa or indoor accent chair, opt for a side table ranging from 22 to 26 inches when the sofa has 24-inch-high arms. If you have an outdoor sofa or chair on your deck or patio, consider selecting a side table that sits slightly below the sofa's arm height. This creates a pleasing visual flow and makes it convenient to access drinks or books.

Consider the Width

When it comes to the width of a side table, the average range typically falls between 16 and 22 inches. It is important to consider this measurement when selecting the right table for your space. Additionally, maintaining a gap of approximately 2 to 3 inches between your sofa and end table is advisable. This not only helps to prevent a cramped appearance but also allows for convenient placement of your glass, book, or beverage. By following these guidelines, you can ensure both aesthetic appeal and practicality in your living area.

Mind the Depth

Make sure the depth of your end table corresponds harmoniously with that of your sofa. A shorter depth would make the combination appear incomplete, while a longer depth poses the risk of constant bumping into the corner and hurting. Either scenario would result in an aesthetically unbalanced room.

Shape the Look.

You will need to figure out the ideal placement of your side table to determine the most suitable shape. If the table is intended for a specific corner, square or rectangular options may be preferable. Alternatively, round or demilune tables can enhance the visual appeal of your space. Another approach is to mix and match the shapes of tables within the same room. For example, opt for a square or rectangular side table when the coffee table is round, and choose other shapes of end tables when the coffee table is square.

Cater to Your Needs.

An end table can serve multiple purposes beyond being a decorative statement. Consider your habits and needs. Ask yourself how often you read on the sofa or if you need to work from home in the living room. Take these aspects into account before exploring the various types of side tables.

STORAGEWORKS End Table with Storage

Side Table with Storage

A side table featuring an additional shelf and a cabinet can accommodate nearly everything you would potentially need while sitting on a sofa. Use the open shelf to display small trinkets and decorations, and utilize the spacious cabinet below to store your favorite books.

STORAGEWORKS End Table with Storage and Charging Station

Side Table with Charging Station

If you frequently need to charge your phone, laptop, or other electronic devices but find yourself lacking sufficient power outlets, consider side tables equipped with USB ports and power outlets. Apart from the extra storage shelf and cabinet, these tables provide two USB ports and two 3-prong outlets.

C-Shaped Side Table

In situations where space is limited but you require a side table for reading or working? A lightweight, C-shaped side table could be your ideal match. With its tabletop neatly snuggled up to your sofa or chair, you can create a movable workspace in your living room or even in your bedroom.

Nesting End Tables

Nesting end tables, another small-space-friendly alternative, provide additional tabletop space without hogging precious square footage while adding a dash of layered elegance. You can keep them nested to hold your drink or table lamp or use them separately in any room. Moreover, they can double up as coffee tables in your living room.

Chairside End Table

When it comes to size, chairside end tables are typically smaller and narrower than average end tables. Designed to fit snugly into tight spaces, these side tables often include enclosed storage, a charging station, and an open bottom shelf, combining functionality with style.

Choose From Materials.

After you have nailed down the dimensions, shapes, and functionalities of your ideal side table, it is time to select the appropriate materials. The chosen materials set the tone, evoke specific moods and create a cohesive look that ties together all the elements of your decor. For instance, wood offers a warm, natural, and traditional feel, complementing most materials. Metal, particularly chrome or stainless steel, tends to present a more modern, sleek, and industrial look. Glass is often associated with modern and contemporary styles, providing an airy, open ambiance to the space.

That said, that does not mean that you cannot experiment with mixing furniture materials. A side table with a metal frame and a glass tabletop looks exquisite in a living room adorned with a leather couch. A weathered wooden side table paired with brass knobs or handles can create a stunning visual impact. Feel free to choose table materials that differ from other furniture pieces in the room, provided that the styles you select echo each other's essence.

Conclusion

A side table is not a mere piece of furniture you can buy without much consideration. It has the potential to impact the style, functionality, and comfort of your living space. Therefore, before you purchase, carefully consider the measurement, shape, functionalities, and materials that best suit your sofa, chair, and room. By following this comprehensive side table buying guide, you can avoid costly mistakes and discover the perfect side table for your home.

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