While a lot of homeowners think long and hard about the style, color and fabric of their upholstered furnishings, selecting tables can be an afterthought. Yet, the right table, or should we say tables, can make or break a room.
There are an endless variety of living room tables to choose from, not only in terms of styles, finishes and sizes, but also in terms of types of tables. Not all living room tables are created equal and knowing the difference between them can help you select the right mix for your home.
Cocktail Storage Ottoman
Let's take a look at the different tables and their uses:
Coffee table. Once referred to as a cocktail table, it is a fairly recent addition to the living room, yet it has become indispensable. Often, if space or funds are limited it is the first and often only table a room needs. Coffee tables are traditionally large and low, not more than 2" above the top of your sofa cushions. It is usually placed either in front of or between upholstered pieces. Its close proximity makes it perfect for serving drinks or food, as guests can easily set their plates and glasses down on these very handy living room tables.
End tables. These living room tables are usually found at the end of a sofa, sectional or love seat or between two occasional chairs. They can match the coffee table or have a different style, though the end tables themselves should match. They are taller than the coffee table, but usually not more than 6" lower than the side arm of the sofa or sectional, allowing guests to set drinks or food on them easily. They are usually large enough to hold a lamp and many models offer a drawer, shelf or cabinet for storage.
Occasional tables. These are small versions of end tables. They are usually as tall as end tables, but have a smaller surface area, making them perfect for rooms that have tight or limited spaces, such as a small apartment or a room that is long but not extremely wide. They come in a variety of shapes and styles, and can be used as a single focal point, much like an accent table.
Accent tables. These living room tables are designed to contrast and complement the room, i.e., serve as an accent. They are usually more ornamental or have features that make them standout visually, such as a tabletop that can be lifted so the table can be set flush against a wall. These living room tables are great for displaying collections, hosting plants or holding the overflow of goodies that arrive during the holidays. They are the most versatile of all living room tables, since they can be used in place of end tables or any other table in the room. They are also fun to have since they don't have to match the rest of your décor. They can be a different shape, style, theme or finish.
Specialty tables. Within these major groupings you find specialty tables. This can include nesting tables, which are either stacked or nested to save space. These living room tables can be used in place of end tables or serve as an accent table, depending on the size and style you choose. They can also work well between two chairs, providing you with a little additional table space when guests are over. You can also get coffee tables that double as ottomans or have a lift top, allowing you to enjoy dinner in front of the fireplace or TV.
One of the best places to shop for living room tables is online. Online retailers have an endless variety of tables to choose from, allowing to quickly find the pieces that fit your needs and tastes quickly and easily.