End Table Designs: How to Choose the Right One
Find the right fit.
Whether you're looking for an easy way to update a space or add more storage, an end table is an essential part of a comfortable living room. End table designs come in a variety of shapes and sizes to complement different sofas or accent chairs. Not sure how to choose an end table? Keep reading below for simple tips to help you find the right size and style for your home.
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End Table Designs
End Table Sizes
End Table Styles
End Table Designs
There are a few key things to keep in mind when browsing through different end table designs. We've outlined some useful pieces of information to help you learn how to choose an end table.
Base Types
With four common base types – four legs, pedestal, drum, and trestle – it's easy to find end table designs that suit your living room while maximizing floor space and practicality.
End Tables With Four Legs: End tables are typically designed with four legs. This type of base works well in any space and can be paired with any top shape. End tables with four legs often include other practical features, such as drawers or shelves.
Pedestal End Tables: This type of end table base is crafted with one or more columns. Often with a round shape and turned details, pedestal end tables add classic style with a slim silhouette. Because of their slim design and extra legroom, pedestal bases are a great choice for end tables that are positioned between accent chairs.
Drum End Tables: End tables with drum bases are shaped like a drum. The cylinder-style base is often constructed from metal, wood, or wicker. The drum shape brings a unique touch and added texture to any living room.
Trestle End Tales: Trestle bases are designed with two trestles connected with a horizontal bar or beam. The trestle-style base adds visual interest and support to the end table.
When choosing an end table shape, consider where the end table will be placed and what shape will pair well with the other pieces of living room furniture, such as the sofa or coffee table.
Square End Tables: Square end tables are versatile and pair well with any style of sofa. Square end tables offer more surface space than round tables and fit well in corners. This type of top shape works well as a matching set or paired with other styles of end table.
Round End Tables: Like square end tables, round end tables can be styled with a variety of sofas or chairs. Round end tables are a great way to experiment with different shapes and soften angular sofas or chairs. Round end tables also create extra space for living room foot traffic.
Rectangle End Tables: Rectangle end tables are typically wider or narrower than square end table designs. For spacious living rooms, wide rectangle end tables add surface space and structure beside the sofa. Narrow rectangle end tables make the most of compact spaces and often have shelves or drawers built into the slim silhouette.
Whether you're placing an end table beside a cozy reading chair or near your favorite spot on the sofa, look for practical storage features that keep your living space organized.
Drawers: End tables with drawers are best for living rooms with electronics, games, and remotes. Choose an end table with one slim drawer to stash small items, such as eyeglasses or books. Pick out an end table with multiple drawers to optimize living room storage.
Shelves: End table designs with shelves offer plenty of open storage to display decorative items, books, and keepsakes. With one or multiple shelves, this type of end table storage makes organizing easy. For end tables with one low shelf, consider placing a basket or decorative tray atop the shelf to store throw blankets.
Before shopping for an end table, we recommend measuring the space first so that you can find which end table sizes would fit best.
Height: Since end tables are typically placed beside a sofa or chair, consider the height of other pieces of furniture in the space. For a comfortable height, we suggest choosing an end table that is similar to or within 2" of the sofa height. Standard end tables measure between 18" and 28" tall, making them a good height for most sofas and chairs.
Width: The standard width of an end table is between 14" and 24". When choosing an end table, it's important to make sure there is enough surface space for any items, such as table lamps, vases, or books.
End Table Styles
From distressed finishes to traditional silhouettes, end tables come in a wide variety of styles to match the aesthetic of your space. We've put together a few ideas to help you choose the best end table designs for your home.
Traditional-Style End Tables
Add a classic end table to a sun-filled seating area. For traditional-style end table designs, look for a combination of clean lines and ornamental details, such as a carved pedestal base and antique-inspired hardware. Opt for a solid wood end table with a dark espresso-colored finish for a timeless look, or choose an end table with a round pedestal base to complement the angles of the accent chairs.
Keep your cup of coffee close by with a rustic end table. To match the cozy ambience of a rustic living room, choose end table designs that have a natural feel. Go for an end table with a distressed finish that highlights the unique patterns in the wood grain, or choose an end table crafted from reclaimed wood and industrial-style hardware for an aged look.
A farmhouse reading nook isn't complete without an end table. For farmhouse spaces, look for end table designs with simple silhouettes and classic touches, such as a trestle base or shiplap details. Pick a matte white end table for a bit of practical farmhouse appeal, or choose an end table with a faded blue finish to add a pop of color. Choose an end table with plenty of surface and storage space to keep any reading essentials nearby.
For coastal living rooms, opt for end table designs that bring an airy and natural feel to the space. Go for a classic silhouette with polished nickel hardware for a nautical look, or try a wicker end table to add a touch of seaside-inspired texture. Pick a light-colored end table with a white or white-washed finish to match the bright coastal color palette, or choose one with a dark varnish to juxtapose the soft neutral tones.
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