Side and End Tables
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Side and End Table Buying Guide
Side and end tables are pieces of furniture that are added to the sides of sofas and armchairs to provide some extra space for placing stuff like lamps TV remotes, coffee, etc. The idea of end tables may seem unnecessary when you first think about it. You may even think they’ll get in the way most times. However, with proper selection of befitting side and end tables and correct placement in the room, they will perform their functions very effectively and add a whole lot of beauty to your room. So, if you want side and end tables, what are the things you should look out for? This buying guide helps you narrow your search down and makes it easier for you to make your choice.
Style
Traditional
The traditional style picks its origin from the 18th century designs. They are typically made of wood—mostly dark wood, and are also characterized by elaborate designs and some intricate carvings on the side table. Sometimes, traditionally styled side tables can be made with curved legs. Generally, they have intricate designs made on them to give that classy, vintage and sometimes timeless look.
Transitional
Like the traditional style, transitional side and end tables are typically made from dark wood, but unlike traditional style, their designs are not so intricate and elaborate. However there is some level of ornamentation, even though it doesn’t carry much detail. It can be described as a convenient balance between function and aesthetics. It can sometimes feature curved sides for visual effect.
Contemporary
The contemporary style leans more towards functionality than aesthetics. That being said, even the reduced decorations have a way of being beautiful differently. Sometimes, less is more. They usually have less weight because hardwood is seldom used in their construction process. They are typically characterized by straight lines and definitive shapes. Sometimes the corners can be rounded for effect.
Modern
The modern style is quite similar to the contemporary. The major difference is that while contemporary side table styles follow the current trend I design, the modern ones go back a few years. They are mainly from the late 20th century. They are characterized by bland structures with no additional design. Any decoration seen on the side table is done in the main construction and not later added.
Materials
In choosing side tables, since it is not likely you will need upholstery, the material used in the stool construction is important, especially foe aesthetics.
Wood
There are different kinds of wooden side and end tables. Some are made from hardwood while others are made from softwood. You are not advised to choose either type of wood here because if you intend to use the side and end table how it should be used, then you don’t expect a lot of load or pressure on it (unless you’re sitting on it). So either hardwood or softwood will be a good choice.
Metal
For your metal side and end tables, you would usually only have to choose among aluminum, steel, iron and one or two other combinations of metals. Most metal side tables come with either a wooden top or a glass top. Sometimes it’s a combination of both. Metal side and end tables are easy to clean, especially if the top is glass. For a proper sleek outlook, you can go for a shiny metal side table with a glass top.
Glass
It’s rare to see a side table with glass legs. What you will likely fing d is glass tops with other materials like wood or metal as legs. You need to take some extra care when selecting a glass side table. If you have kids or you often have kids over, please go for tempered glass. Tempered glass is stronger and more durable than standard glass. Also, if tempered glass eventually breaks, it crumbles into very small fragments which are unlikely to be of major immediate harm to kids (if swift action is taken).
Stone
Stones that can be used as side and end table tops include marble and slate. Also, it can be used alongside wood by means of veneers. Side tables with stone finishing can make for a beautiful contrast in your room.
Types
Side tables, also called end tables or accent tables can serve a host of purposes, depending on how resourceful the owner is. There are different types of side tables that serve different functional purposes. You should note that while these side tables may have different designs, the major differences are in the functionality.
Storage Side Tables
Sometimes, the items you need to store in your living room go beyond the regular TV remote, car keys and coffee. You may need to keep things like the newspaper, children’s toys and a number of other things. Storage side tables are very useful for this purpose. They may include small drawers underneath the top, or baskets, or even racks.
Nesting Side Tables
Nesting side tables are very useful if you don’t have much room space. They come in twos; you place one side table beneath the other. It’s designed to fit in just right. So, instead of having so many side tables that you’d be tripping over them, or so few that they wouldn’t swerve their purpose, you can have the exact number you need, and still have your room space. It’s like you can basically eat your cake and have it. You have enough surface to serve your guests, and when they are done, you have enough space to move around. Isn’t that genius?
Chairside Side Tables
Chairside side tables are typically placed beside lounges, recliners or any chair that is mainly used for relaxation. They usually come with shelves, drawers and other storage compartments that keep needed items at an arm’s length.
Summary
Whatever name you choose to call it; the side table, end table or accent table, you now know what it is and what your options are. Now go ahead and make an informed purchase.