It may be a designer slice or an upturned timeworn wood crate or half barrel, but how you decorate your table is about as important as the table itself. The right table stands around chair-arm height with design that complements the room; the right decorative components on top inform your design narrative.
Size, Style and Symmetry
No matter what you place on a side table, then choose symmetry, appropriate size and suitable fashion. On a set of side tables, then utilize matching table lamps or slightly different lamps with comparable heights, colors and design; vague differences such as diverse shapes create interest. When you are decorating only one table beside a sofa, roughly match the table’s tallest object, including a table lamp together with the table’s height, to the height of the tallest object on the opposite side, such as a floor lamp or leggy, potted plant.
Lighten Up
A table lamp is an end-table regular but its shade may be more important than you realize. If the base of the lampshade is below eye level when you are sitting on the neighboring sofa or chair, you won’t get glare from the arc or see the hardware. For a small table such as a movable era-C table with a wrap-under, extend-over layout — like a rolling hospital-bed table — utilize a slim lamp or clamp lamp for practicality. In case you’ve got a boxier table or table cube, go with a beefier lamp for proportion.
Odds and End Table
A lone lamp may suit a complete table at a minimalist home but if you want a more substantial look, add objects judiciously. Odd-numbered groupings — a lamp, vase and beam candle, like — create visual movement and interest, particularly in the event that you vary their heights. To get a side table, then three objects is plenty. If three doesn’t seem like enough, add two more objects to see how the article changes. Add or take away objects till you’ve got a satisfying display.
Beside the Bed
A bedroom table carries a couple of objects you probably would not use in the living room, den or family room. Include a docking station along with a vintage-looking alarm clock in an antique side table or something with a contemporary twist on a contemporary table. Set a small decorative dish on the table to toss switch, keys, hair accessories, jewelry or other smaller items when you are getting changed or climbing into bed.
Good-Looking Protection
Save your side-table top from drinking-glass condensation, plant or vase spillover or scrapes. Cover the top with a smooth-edge part of glass that’s cut to match; glass includes a clean, streamlined effect if you prefer minimalist design. A single coaster in wood, leather, cork or colorful, molded plastic should match the table it tops. For the nation or Shabby-Chic-style space, hem a floral or paisley table runner to curtain across at a casual angle. In modern digs, utilize ikat fabric or a striped place mat.