Looking for a side table? But your space is too small? You painstakingly click through page after page of side tables, scrutinizing their measurements, only to find that it still doesn't fit. Don't give up!
Let me give you a trick to tell at a glance whether a side table is a space-saving option!
Next, let's explore how to pick the perfect small side table for your compact home.
1. Know 3 Space-Efficient Side Table Types
Enough of the rambling, let's get straight to the point! Let's start choosing a space-saving side table! There are three types:
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Round Side Table
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A round side table is known for its simple, sleek, and sophisticated appearance. It looks like a plump, round table. But you're actually judging a table by its appearance!
Imagine a square side table placed next to a sofa. You'd be wary of scratching it as you pass by it.
But the simplicity of a round table can be disarming because it lacks sharp corners. It can be placed close to a sofa, bed, or hallway, eliminating both visual and physical barriers and creating a more airy and light-filled space.
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C Side Table – "Zero Footprint"
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The C side table is a stylish half-moon-shaped side table, seemingly broken in half. This is what makes it the best side table for a small space.
It only needs a corner to find its footing, and it can overcome any obstacle and arrive right in front of you. The unique "C"-shaped opening allows you to push it perfectly flush against the sofa without worrying about tripping or bumping.
The slender legs and visual "white space" effectively reduce the feeling of crowding in small spaces, creating a more spacious feel.
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Pedestal Side Table
Look at this pedestal side table with a glass table; it ditches four legs for a single-leg design!
You can comfortably extend your legs underneath the table without worrying about bumping. This allows the pedestal side table to be placed closer to the sofa or chairs, reducing the overall space it takes up.
This makes it particularly suitable for small apartments with limited space, for frequent use near seating (such as next to the sofa or bedside), and for modern homes pursuing a minimalist visual style.
2. Measure Before You Buy—Know Your Space First
Now that you have a rough idea of which side tables are most space-saving, are you feeling confident? Come and measure your space with confidence.
First, decide where you want your side table to go—next to the sofa, next to the bed, in a corner, etc. Then, measure your available space and choose the right size based on the chart below.
|
Placement |
Recommended Height |
Recommended Distance |
Explanation |
|
Beside Sofa |
45–55 cm (17–22 in)—within 2 in of sofa arm height |
1–2 inches (2.5–5 cm) |
Make the tabletop almost flush with the sofa armrest, making it convenient to take drinks or books. Too far will affect usage, and too close will appear crowded. |
|
Beside Bed |
Equal to or slightly higher than a mattress (50–60 cm / 20–24 in) |
1–3 inches (2.5–7.5 cm) |
Keep the visual environment clean and tidy, making it easy to reach the desktop and take items. |
|
Entryway, walkway |
45–60 cm (18–24 in) |
18–24 inches (45–60 cm) |
Ensure there is an adequate passageway and that movement or door opening is not restricted. |
|
Between Chairs |
50–60 cm (20–24 in) |
2–4 inches (5–10 cm) |
Centers the table for a balanced look and allows for easy use from both sides. |
|
Between wall |
/ |
2–4 inches (5–10 cm) |
Allow space for cords, plugs, or cleaning. |
Still unsure about what to choose? Don’t worry, browse our carefully selected small side tables and create an artistic corner for your space!
3. Choose a Side Table Design that Maximizes Space
We already know how to save space, but how can we maximize storage capacity using the space we already have?
If you want to balance storage functionality with aesthetics, try a side table with storage. This allows you to meet multiple needs with one piece of furniture!
- A side table with drawers is perfect for storing items that need protection.
- A side table with shelves allows for more decorative items and easily accessible items.
- A nesting side table maximizes space when you need it.
4. Choose a Visually Transparent Side Table Material
Different side table materials can affect the perceived size of a space, but they can also be influenced by the design.
The key question is: Does the side table have a sense of visual transparency?
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- Glass side tables: Top in transparency! Their physical transparency is key. Both the top and legs allow light to pass through completely, ensuring unobstructed vision. They create virtually no visual weight, making them "invisible" furniture and particularly suitable for very small spaces.
- Metal side tables: Second in transparency! Try to choose slender tables with distinct lines. This minimizes visual obstruction and creates a light, "floating" feel.
- Wood side tables: Their sense of transparency is average, but the color and shape can be varied. Opt for light-colored solid wood with thin legs for a more airy feel. Alternatively, opt for wooden side tables with openwork, latticework, or floating designs to significantly enhance the sense of transparency. Avoid dark solid wood with thick legs, as these create a strong visual weight and minimize the sense of transparency.
- Marble side tables: They reflect light rather than being transparent. It has the strongest visual weight, and the heaviness can only be reduced by the mirror effect, but it cannot create a "penetrating" visual effect like the first three.
But glass side tables have a fatal flaw: they shatter easily. Don't worry, there's another material: acrylic side tables. They're incredibly transparent, affordable, and durable!
5. Style Tips: Place Side Tables for a Small Space
Here are some decorating ideas for side tables in small spaces to elevate your space!
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- A minimalist design and a consistent color palette create a more uncluttered space.
- Add a lamp, books, or plants to the tabletop for visual depth.
- Hang a wall lamp or art piece above the side table to draw the eye upward and enhance the sense of depth.
- Add a small plant or vase of dried flowers to bring life to the space and soften the harsh lines.
- Place a round mirror or small mirrored decoration next to the side table to reflect light and create a sense of spaciousness.
- Keep the tabletop minimalist and clean by placing only one eye-catching decoration (such as an art piece or scented candle).
Conclusion
Even in a small space, comfort and beauty shouldn't be compromised. Small spaces have their own beauty, and the right small side table can enhance your space!
Explore our full range of space-saving small side tables, whether for your living room or bedroom, and make a difference today!
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