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How to choose a side table for your home
The most beautiful (and useful) designs, from architectural shapes to modern takes on tactile materials
Occasional tables come in all shapes and sizes and, with such an overwhelming amount of choice, it can be tricky to know which will suit you best. James Patmore, Design Manager at Soho Home, breaks down what you should know before you invest…
What should you consider first when choosing a side table? A side table needs to be easily accessible, which depends on the arm height of the accompanying sofa or chair. The size of the room is also a major consideration. I prefer a piece that offers lots of negative space when working with smaller rooms; a table with a frame base provides the needed surface area without visually taking up a large footprint that might crowd the space. Meanwhile, heavier side tables work with large, upholstered pieces to give a sense of comfort and permanence.
How about materials and colour? You can create a statement with occasional tables, so be a little braver. At Soho House we love to use marble, as it conveys colour and texture in a natural material. Side tables present an opportunity to be playful and daring without overpowering a room. Tonal shades work for calming schemes, whereas contrasting colour is a little more fun.
Does the choice of shape affect a room? I find contrasting shapes add friction to a space and make it feel more eclectic, while round or organic footprints work well with boxy sofas and angular side tables definitely pair best with curved pieces. I try to not use storage side tables in a living room – when faced with a choice between a small drawer’s worth of storage versus making a visual statement, go with the statement.
How many side tables should you have in a space? Two or three depending on the size of the room: one either side of the sofa, then one by an occasional chair. Nesting sets tend to be quite versatile and can be used individually as bedside tables in tight spaces, as well as dotted around the house to accent alcoves or unused corners. sohohome.com
Inspired to pick your perfect side table? Choose your favourite from our edit…
‘Squiggle’ table, Klevering
Whimsical and fun but without stealing too much focus, the metal 'Squiggle' table by Klevering will add a dash of humour to any modern, eclectic space. £95, libertylondon.com
‘Embankment’ side table, Veere Grenney
Pleasingly chunky and with a gorgeously glossy finish, the clean lines of this side table fit into any scheme, while the deep, teal hue and curved legs add a point of difference. £1,295, thelacquercompany.com
‘Phoenix’ table, Soho Home
Constructed from dark Emperador marble, the straight lines and stacked profile of this hefty table make it the ideal addition to a dark, moody interior. £1,795, sohohome.com
‘Awa’ table by Naoto Fukusawa, B&B Italia
Elegantly asymmetrical, the 'Awa' table is seriously versatile. Available in hard polyurethane in a handful of satin and glossy colours, its energetic, sinuous shape will infuse your home with a slight Seventies vibe. £1,232, bebitalia.com
‘Disco’ table by Antrei Hartikainen, Basta
Say hello to the side table that's just as fun as its name. The 'Disco' consists of an oak top that seems to float on a sturdy, pedestal-like stand. The overall impression is pure magic. £684, finnishdesignshop.com
‘Model A’ stool by Jasper Morrison, Vitra
Lightweight yet durable, this cork stool can be used equally well as a side table. It's made from pressed and recycled wine corks with an untreated finish, and it's as multifunctional as it is robust. £420, conranshop.co.uk
‘Mob’ table, Pols Potten
Glossy and sleek with a Memphis-inspired design, the ‘Mob’ is a cheerful take on the traditional side table. It comes in various colours, but we like this gloss burgundy. Approx £409, polspotten.com
‘Vicino’ table by Foster+Partners, Molteni & C
With its handy double shelf and moveable surfaces, the ‘Vicino’ table - made of red, pewter or bronze lacquered steel - is a super-slim and highly practical designer choice. From £1,644, molteni.it
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