Choosing End Tables That Elevate Your Small Living Room

Do People Still Use End Tables?

If you're looking to revamp your living spaces through unique furniture pieces, you may be wondering whether people still use end tables. As the name denotes, an end table is a small accent table that you place at the end of or beside a larger piece of furniture. It can be a sofa, bed, or chair, or anywhere seating is present. 

To answer the key question - yes, end tables are still common and popular pieces of furniture today. Many homeowners favour end tables as they are considered an essential component of interior design. In fact, people are finding increasingly creative ways to incorporate end tables into their living spaces.

Why People Still Use End Tables 

There are plenty of reasons why people today still find end tables to be an attractive accentuating furniture choice. Below is an overview of the benefits of investing in a high-quality end table.

1. They help you utilize space well 

End tables can be one of the best items you can invest in if you have limited living space. They are generally smaller than side tables and coffee tables. End tables are approximately 12 to 18 inches in diameter or width and usually about as tall as the arm of a typical couch. 

As such, they are among the best furniture options to make good use of small spaces. They offer valuable surface area without eating up much square footage. You can easily find a place between your chair, couch, or bed and a wall for small end tables. 

Square tables, for example, can fit snuggly in the angles of corners, which are hardly ever occupied anyway. Further, there are some end table designs that feature extra storage space. If you're short on space, there's hardly a better choice.

2. They offer design and style versatility 

Another major benefit of end tables is the variety of designs available. While they are typically rounded or square, there are many other unique shapes and styles. It's relatively easy to find end tables that match your décor and suit your preferences. Minimalist, traditional, rustic, Nordic, and cabinet styles are just some of the design choices. 

Material options include metal, wood, and glass (or combinations). You also have unlimited colour options to experiment with. For example, you can buy a black end table that goes well with white or grey seats. Overall, whatever the theme or aesthetic of your living room décor is, finding a matching or complementary end table is a breeze.

3. They are practical and convenient 

The functionality of end tables is one of the primary reasons behind their popularity. They provide a convenient spot to place various items within arm's reach. These may include books, drinks, remote controls, and phones.

An end table allows you to rest on your couch or bed with easy access to necessary items. You don't have to get up frequently. An end table is also an ideal stand for lamps or framed photos. The practicality of small end tables is a welcome benefit, especially for limited spaces that necessitate having versatile furniture.

4. They help with your living room layout 

End tables are excellent furniture items to complete your living room or bedroom layout. Part of their popularity among homeowners is how well they blend with almost any theme. A well-placed table can instantly make any space more layered and interesting. 

To create a unique setup, you can pair an end table with décor staples like coffee tables or side tables. You can also experiment with matching and contrasting options. End tables can help you add cohesion and charm to your dream room layout.

5. They are budget-friendly

An often-overlooked aspect of end tables is that they are relatively affordable. Upgrading your interior décor can get really pricey. With end tables, you can find design gems at budget-friendly prices. They enable you to create cosy, stylish, and functional living spaces without breaking the bank.

Where Should End Tables Be Placed in a Small Living Room?

If you have a small living room, it can be a challenge to find ideal places to place furniture items, including end tables. Fortunately, the compact nature of this piece of furniture opens up your options considerably. The typical place most people set up living room end tables is in the spaces between the sofas/couches and walls. 

An important point to remember is that your end table requires a stable surface where you can safely place items. As such, you should avoid placing the tables at locations where there's lots of foot traffic. Arguably, the best spot to place an end table in a small living room is in a corner. 

Instead of placing your couch all the way against a wall, leave some room for an end table. This works particularly well if you have a pair of sofas. 

The end table can form the right angle that connects the two seats at a corner. With this layout, the occupants of either seat can readily reach the table. 

You can also place an end table between two armchairs to create a cosy space for conversations. Angle the chairs towards each other for the perfect intimate bubble. Alternatively, set it up beside a solo recliner or armchair for reading or enjoying a drink. This idea works well with end tables with additional storage. You can keep your books or snacks at arm's reach. 

In addition, you can utilize a pair (or three) of matching tables as an alternative to the traditional coffee table. Arrange the tables to form a single piece in front of your sofa. This setup makes rearrangement easy, especially if you have company. You can simply pull the tables apart to use separately when needed. 

Placing an end table in your entryway beside the door is also an excellent choice. It can provide entryway storage and serve as a convenient spot to drop keys and other items as you enter your living room. Another great idea is to place an end table in front of a window. You can then rest your favourite houseplant on top to act as an eye-catching focal point with the incoming natural light as a backdrop.

All in all, end tables are still a universally popular home décor accessory. Not only are these pieces of furniture aesthetically pleasing, but they are highly practical, allowing you to add functionality and homely charm to your living spaces. For many homeowners out there, a set of high-quality living room end tables is definitely a worthwhile investment.