The height of the end table or side table should not be higher than the height of the armrests of the chairs they match, nor lower than the height of the seats. The optimal height is about 3 inches shorter than the arm. For chairs without armrests, aim for a table top no more than 8 inches from the seat height.
Though end tables can be afterthoughts when designing your living room, selecting the correct size is important. Side tables are often resting spots for drinks, and are the ideal location for a table lamp. To keep from straining to set a drink down or being blinded by lamplight, we offer important dimension guidelines for selecting the right end table size. Learn More
End table or side table is small tables that are typically placed besides a chair, loveseat, or sofa. They provide a convenient platform for lighting, resting beverages, and storing books.
End tables are like the supporting players to a leading-lady sofa. They rarely get the glory, yet they're vital in their own low-key way. In addition to serving as a landing pad for lamps and a perch for cocktails, they can help to give a space a well-rounded, polished look. They whisper of a homeowner who pays attention to details.
► The number-one question when choosing an end table: How tall should it be? The rule of thumb is that its surface area should be equal to or just below the height of the sofa arms. For a standard sofa, that's around 25 inches, but get out the measuring tape to be sure (I did, and it's a good thing — the arms on mine hit 28 inches). Most end tables are between 22 and 30 inches.
► If you can't find tables you like within your target height range, err on the side of shorter rather than taller. Styles that jut above arm level not only can look awkward, but they also can make it hard for people to set down a glass or pick up a book.
► What about armless sofas? You have two options: Select tables that suit the height where arms would sit (to gauge it, get comfy on the sofa and reach for an imaginary drink), or buy low models that are level with the seat. Neither option is better than the other; it just depends on your preferences and the balance of your space.
► If you like the mismatched look, choose tables similar in size and visual weight for harmony. These each fall at roughly the same height as the sofa arms. Notice how the square table is tucked into the corner, a nice match for its angles.
Of course, there's no law that says you have to double up on end tables if the look doesn't match your space. A single tray table at the far end of this sofa preserves the inviting openness of the room, and the arrangement is evened out by the folding table that sits on the diagonal across from it.
Dreamy Whites - Feel free to use nontraditional objects — shipping crates, old suitcases, sewing machine stands, garden stools — as end tables. Just make sure they fall in step with the height and scale guidelines above so that they are conversation pieces rather than nuisances.
End tables should be within two inches of a sofa's arm height. For example, if the sofa's arm is 22" tall, a proper end table can be anywhere from 20" – 24" tall. Can't find the right end table height for your room? Go shorter rather than taller for a more comfortable experience.
Tip: The bottom of a lampshade shouldn't fall higher than eye level when you're seated on the sofa or chair that's placed next to the lamp.
The average width of an end table is between 16" – 22". When deciding on a side table, be sure yours has a surface wide enough to hold any desired items, like books, plants, or table lamps. Additionally, leave a few inches between the end table and sofa.
The ideal depth of an end table is equal to the depth of the sofa or chair it's placed next to. It should not exceed the depth of the sofa.
Tip: for a symmetrical look, put matching end tables on either side of your sofa.
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