Side Table Buying Guide: Size, Material & Style Tips
By hollis+morris | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to choose a side table for your living room by focusing on size, material, and function. Practical decision rules and trade-offs for modern and small spaces.
Quick answer
Choose a side table that is roughly the same height as the arm of your sofa or chair, and select a material and style that complements your existing decor. For small spaces, prioritize compact designs and consider tables with hidden storage.
Height and proportion matter most
The most common mistake is picking a side table that is too tall or too short. Ideally, the table top should be within two inches of your sofa or chair arm height. This makes it comfortable to reach for a drink or a book without stretching. For a standard sofa (18-20 inch seat height), a table around 19-21 inches tall works well. If your sofa is lower, look for a shorter table like the Bedford Side Table (19 inches in small size) or the Levee Side Table (21 inches).
Material and finish affect durability and style
Solid wood side tables (walnut or white oak) are warm, durable, and age well with a hardwax oil finish. They work in traditional, mid-century, and modern spaces. Metal or stone-topped tables (like the Corian top on the Bedford Side Table) are easier to clean and resist spills, making them a practical choice for households with kids or pets. The Basin Table’s powder-coated spun metal basin adds an industrial accent while offering sheltered storage. Consider how the material will hold up in your specific environment—wood can scratch, metal can dent, and stone can chip.
Storage needs: open vs. hidden
If you need a place to stash remotes, coasters, or magazines, look for a table with a shelf or drawer. The Basin Table features a clever hidden compartment accessed through a subtle dip in the metal top—perfect for hiding clutter while keeping the surface clean. The Bedford Side Table has a secret: a Corian top that lifts or slides to reveal storage inside the base. The Levee Side Table is solid and supportive but offers no storage—it’s best when you just need a surface for a lamp and a drink.
Decision rules for choosing your side table
- Match the height to your seating: Measure the height of your sofa or chair arm. Choose a side table within 2 inches of that height. For a standard sofa (arm height ~19-20 inches), look for a table 19-21 inches tall.
- Consider the footprint: If your living room is small or your sofa is against a wall, a table with a diameter of 16-17 inches (like the Bedford or Levee) leaves more floor space visible. For open layouts, a wider top (up to 26 inches) can anchor a seating group.
- Prioritize storage if you need it: If you regularly use the table for items you want to hide, choose a model with a drawer, shelf, or hidden compartment. If the table is purely for display (lamp, plant, book), a solid surface without storage keeps the design clean. If you chose a table with hidden storage, test the access mechanism in person to ensure it feels natural and easy to use.
- Match finish to your existing furniture: Walnut adds warmth and works with dark wood tones; white oak is lighter and suits Scandinavian or mid-century styles. For a mixed-material look, pair a wood base with a metal or stone top.
Product facts
- Levee Side Table: Three stalwart solid wood legs rise to merge with an equally formidable top. Made of solid Walnut or White Oak. Dimensions: DIA 17" x H 21". The 21-inch height pairs well with standard sofa arms, and the solid wood construction adds a sculptural, grounded look to your space.
Levee Side Table - Bedford Side Table: Smooth Corian top balanced by a weighted wood base. Available in small (DIA 16" x H 19") or large size. Solid Walnut or White Oak base. The Corian surface resists stains and is easy to wipe clean, while the small 16-inch diameter fits tight corners and narrow gaps between furniture.
Who this is for and who should look elsewhere
Best for
- Homeowners furnishing a living room with a standard sofa or lounge chair
- Anyone looking for a side table that doubles as a small storage solution
Not for
- People who need a large surface for dining or workspace (consider a console table or desk instead)
- Those with very low floor seating (look for a lower table, around 16-18 inches tall)
