22 Side Table Styling Tips from Interior Designers
Side tables are often the unsung heroes of interior design. They may be small, but they play a big role in making a room feel complete. Whether it’s next to a sofa, bed, or armchair, a well-styled side table can transform a space from ordinary to extraordinary. Interior designers often treat these little surfaces as opportunities for creativity, layering textures, colors, and objects to create harmony. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your side table both functional and visually appealing, this guide dives into 22 expert-approved tips that will elevate your space instantly.
1. Mix Heights for Visual Interest
A side table isn’t just a flat surface. Designers recommend varying heights with objects like vases, books, or lamps. Placing a tall lamp next to a short sculpture creates depth. Your eye moves naturally around the table, making the space feel dynamic instead of flat. Think of it as a tiny skyline on your tabletop; layering heights keeps it visually exciting while still functional.
2. Incorporate Natural Elements
Plants are a designer’s favorite secret weapon. A small potted plant or a vase of fresh flowers brings life to your side table. Greenery adds color, texture, and a breath of freshness to any room. Even in minimalist spaces, a single succulent or fern can create a striking focal point without cluttering the table.
3. Balance Function and Beauty
Side tables serve a practical purpose, but beauty is key. Designers suggest keeping essentials like coasters, lamps, or a small tray while leaving room for decorative accents. Avoid overfilling the space; too many objects can make it feel chaotic. Think of your table as a stage, where each item plays its part in a harmonious scene.
4. Use a Statement Lamp
Lighting is transformative. A bold, sculptural lamp instantly elevates your side table. Interior designers often choose lamps with unique shapes, textures, or colors to act as conversation starters. Not only does it illuminate the room, but it also adds personality and style.
5. Layer with Books
Stacking a few coffee table books is a tried-and-true styling method. Choose books with visually appealing covers that reflect your personality. They create height variation and serve as mini platforms for other decorative objects. Tip: Always stack in odd numbers—it’s more visually appealing.
6. Add a Decorative Tray
Trays are versatile tools for organization. Place a small tray to corral items like candles, remotes, or jewelry. It creates structure, making your table look curated instead of cluttered. Metallic or mirrored trays can also add a touch of elegance and reflect light beautifully.
7. Integrate Textures
Texture is the unsung hero of styling. Mixing materials like wood, metal, glass, or stone adds depth. Designers often combine a smooth ceramic vase with a rough wooden bowl or a soft fabric coaster. The tactile quality invites touch and adds richness to your space.
8. Play with Color
A side table doesn’t need to match everything in the room, but color harmony is essential. Use accent colors from the room in smaller decor pieces. A bright vase or a colorful book cover can tie the room together subtly. Designers love using pops of unexpected color to make a table feel curated and personal.
9. Include Personal Touches
Your side table should reflect you. A framed photo, a small souvenir from travels, or a handwritten note adds warmth. Designers emphasize that these personal elements make your space feel lived-in and authentic rather than staged.
10. Keep It Seasonal
Changing your decor with the seasons keeps your table fresh. Swap out flowers, candles, or small accents to reflect the time of year. A cozy candle in winter, a vibrant floral arrangement in spring—it’s a subtle way to refresh your space without a full redesign.
11. Mind the Scale
Choosing the right size for your side table is crucial. Too small, and it looks lost; too big, and it overwhelms your seating. Designers often suggest tables that are roughly the same height as your sofa arm for optimal balance and comfort.
12. Use Sculptural Pieces
A small sculpture or abstract object adds a touch of art. Designers love using sculptural pieces to give personality to side tables. They can be as simple as a ceramic figure or as bold as a metal abstract—what matters is the visual impact.
13. Incorporate Mirrors
Mirrored accents or a small mirrored tray can instantly brighten a side table. They reflect light and create the illusion of more space. Interior designers often use mirrored surfaces to elevate elegance and make a compact area feel larger.
14. Keep a Candle Handy
Candles are functional and decorative. A designer tip is to vary candle heights and group them on a tray for a cozy vibe. Scented candles also enhance the sensory experience, making your living space more inviting.
15. Rotate Your Decor
Change is refreshing. Designers often rotate objects to keep the space lively. Move your lamp slightly, switch books around, or replace seasonal accents. Small tweaks keep your side table from feeling static or stale.
16. Go Minimalist for a Modern Look
Less is more in modern spaces. One striking lamp, a small plant, and a single book can make a table look sophisticated. Interior designers emphasize that negative space—the empty areas—is just as important as the objects themselves.
17. Mix Old and New
Combining vintage finds with modern pieces adds charm. A mid-century clock next to a contemporary vase creates a curated story. Designers love this approach because it adds character while keeping the style layered and interesting.
18. Use a Bold Rug as a Backdrop
Placing your side table on or near a patterned rug can make it pop. Designers often use color and pattern as a visual frame for tables. The rug acts as a subtle spotlight, drawing attention to your curated tabletop arrangement.
19. Keep Essentials Accessible
Functionality matters. Make sure everyday items like remotes, glasses, or chargers are easy to reach. Designers often hide these essentials in a small drawer or stylish container, maintaining both utility and aesthetics.
20. Experiment with Asymmetry
Perfect symmetry is nice, but asymmetry often feels more natural. A taller object on one side paired with a smaller one on the other creates movement and interest. Interior designers often advise breaking rigid symmetry for a more dynamic and approachable look.
21. Highlight with Lighting
Accent lighting, like a small LED spotlight or fairy lights, can highlight a favorite object on your table. Designers love using subtle lighting to create focal points and draw the eye, especially in cozy evening settings.
22. Don’t Forget the Floor
A side table doesn’t exist in isolation. Designers recommend considering the area around it, such as a small rug, basket, or pouf. It completes the look and ensures the table feels integrated into the room rather than floating awkwardly.
