Side tables are, without a doubt, an important addition to any room. You’ll often find them located at each end of a couch or next to an armchair: the perfect location for your drink, glasses, or a multitude of other items.
Of course, choosing elegant side tables can also be positioned in corners and near windows. These are generally used for plants and ornaments.
Choosing the right side table can be a complicated process. One factor which many people overlook is how the height and size of your side table, or tables, impact the rest of the room.
Getting The Height Right
The function of the side table will affect what height it should be.
If you’re looking for a table to go next to a couch, you’re going to need one that is level with the arms. This will make it easy for you to reach anything on the table.
Of course, when the table is the same height it’s relatively easy to knock something off. Make the table higher and instead of knocking something off the table, you’re likely to knock the table over.
That’s why we recommend the table be the same height or just a fraction lower.
This approach also helps to ensure the table is seen when moving around the room. You’ll subconsciously perceive it to be part of the couch.
Equally, when choosing any side table designed for plants or an ornament you’ll need to consider how tall the table will be with its load on. In many cases, the object on the table will need to be at eye level. That means these types of side tables will be much taller.
Choosing Side Table Size
While the height of a side table is generally tied to its location. The size is tied to the height.
A side table serves a purpose, it’s that purpose which defines its height. However, the taller the table, the smaller its diameter needs to be. A tall table with a wide diameter is going to appear overpowering in most homes.
Likewise, a short table with a wide diameter can be easily overlooked and become a nuisance instead of a feature.
The only way to get the height and size right is to consider the role of the table and then try it in several positions.
Adjusting For Room Size
As always, there are some exceptions to the rule. If you have a particularly large room then you’re going to need large tables, whether short or tall. But, purchasing large side tables isn’t enough. Their size must be in relation to the other furniture in the room.
In general, the side table is the smallest piece of furniture in a room. Remember that when choosing the right side table for your room.
Summing Up
To get the right size side table first think about what the table will be used for and where you would like it to go.
This will help you identify the right size and shape of the table. We recommend you trust your gut and make sure it fits with the existing room style.
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