Everyone is familiar with end tables; they are found in our homes all the time. So, is your end table height right?
Whether it's next to a sofa, bed, or armchair, the right height can increase comfort and practicality.
Today, we will discuss end & side table sizes in terms of height, width, and depth. This guide gives you a quick overview of dimensions, measuring tips, and some advice.
How to Measure An End Table Dimension Quickly
1. Firstly, measure the height of the furniture adjacent to the end table (sofa seat, mattress, chair arms).
2. Secondly, subtract/add 1-2" for best usability.
3. Then, verify width and depth by leaving 16-18" of space between the table and seating.
4. Finally, make sure lamps/decorations do not impede movement.
End Table Height: How Tall Is Suitable?
End table height is one of the most important end table dimensions. It affects where you place your beverages, where you place your table lamps, and more.
Standard end table heights are usually in the range of 18-28". But choosing the end table is not according to the standard but according to your sofa.
It is crucial to coordinate the end table with the sofa seat height. A difference of 2" between the end table and sofa seat height is the optimal height. For example,
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Standard Sofa (Seat Height 16-18") → with 14-16" high-end table
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Low Sofa (Seat Height ≤ 14") → with 12-14" high end table
Here's a simpler formula: end table height = sofa seat height × 0.85.
Note!
If the end table is more than 4" higher than the sofa, it will be difficult to reach the objects.
Explore the Ideal End Table:
| Mission-Style End Tables | Mid-Century Modern End Tables |
| Wood End Tables |
End Table Width
When choosing end table dimensions, it's important that whatever it is harmonizes with the adjacent furniture. The same goes for end table widths.
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Minimum Width: 12" wide end table for lamps/drinks only
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Standard Width: 16-22" wide end table for both storage and aesthetics
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Maximum Width: ≤ 2/3 of the length of the couch/bed to avoid crowding
When you want to place anything at all, be sure to choose an end table that is wider than 22" wide to allow you to place as much as you want of table lamps, books, plants, beverages, etc.
Note!
Golden Ratio: End table width ≈ 1/3 to 1/2 the width of the adjacent seat. Example: Sofa 60" long → End Table 20-30" wide
Maintain safe spacing with 4-8" clearance from sofas, beds, etc., and ≥24" for aisles.
After selecting the height and width of the end table, the next step is the depth!
End Table Depth
The depth of the end table is much simpler to choose—just the same depth as the sofa next to it. Of course, it can also be less than the sofa depth, but it is best not to exceed the depth of the sofa; it will look very abrupt.
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Square/rectangular table: depth ≈ width (1:1 ratio is the best)
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Round end table: diameter = width x 1.2 (volume conversion required)
Choose the Perfect Shape for the End Table
After choosing the size of the end table, let's simply confirm how to match it.
I. Matching Sofa/Chair Shapes
|
Primary Furniture |
Recommended End Table Shape |
Rationale |
|
Straight Sofa |
Square/Rectangular |
Clean lines align with the sofa, ideal for wall placement |
|
L-Shaped/Sectional |
Round/Semi-Circular |
Soft edges prevent bumps, perfect for corners |
|
Armchair |
Oval/Trapezoid |
Fluid curves enhance relaxation; narrow end fits chair arms |
|
Curved Sofa |
Fan/Irregular Contours |
Echoes organic lines, avoids angular clashes |
II. By Room Function
|
Space Scenario |
Optimal Shape |
Pro Tips |
|
Living Room (Main) |
Square/Rectangular |
Provides stable surface for lamps and trays |
|
Bedside |
Round/Oval |
Reduces nighttime collision risks, softens edges |
|
Reading Nook |
Tiered/Trapezoid |
Sloped design aids book access; a lower shelf for magazines |
|
Entryway |
Semi-Circular/Wall-Mounted |
Saves space, rounded edges prevent entryway collisions |
Choose the Right-sized End Table with Homeyfad
The right size end table height, width and depth to blend in perfectly with your furniture. It enhances style and functionality.
At Homeyfad, we design our end & side tables to complement your sofa or bedside table. The carefully measured proportions will harmonize your living room with ease. Make your table not only beautiful but also able to stand the test of time.
Ready to find your ideal match? Browse Homeyfad today, and let's create a space that's just right. Start shopping now!