Side tables

Choose a side table that suits the scale of your seating and the space around it. A small side table works well in tighter corners or beside an armchair, while a larger sofa side table can take a lamp, books and a drink without feeling crowded. As a guide, the tabletop should sit close to the height of the sofa arm for easy reach. In living rooms, leaving clear walkways matters as much as surface space.

A side table is designed to sit beside seating, giving you a convenient surface for a lamp, book or cup of tea. A coffee table sits in the centre of a seating area and anchors the layout, offering shared surface space for the room. Side tables are often smaller and more flexible, while coffee tables tend to be broader and more central. Both work together to make a living space feel practical and settled.

Side tables work best where they support how you use the room. Place one beside a sofa or armchair so essentials are within easy reach, and consider a pair to balance either end of a sofa. In larger spaces, living room side tables can help define a seating area, especially when paired with a coffee table. A side table for living room corners can also soften empty space without adding bulk.

Keep styling simple and useful. A lamp adds warmth and height, while a small stack of books or a tray brings structure and keeps everyday items together. An oak side table looks beautiful with natural textures, such as ceramics or linen, while glass and metal designs suit a lighter, more pared-back look. Leave a little clear space so the table remains practical, and so the room feels calm rather than crowded.