Side tables can often be overlooked, but choosing the right one will elevate your space
The Leah is a minimalist design made from travertine stone (available from Freedom)
When styling our home’s sanctuaries, we often think of big-ticket items first: a firm mattress for the bedroom, making sure the couch passes the comfort test… you get the gist. Yet it is often those smaller details that elevate a space.
Side tables are one of those objects that punch well above their weight. So named because they usually sit within easy reach of the bed and couch, these tables often house some of our most treasured trinkets: hand creams, jewellery dishes, lamps for soft reading light – not to mention the latest reads on our list.
They deserve to be special, so we’ve listed five of our favourite stylish side tables available to buy now.
The most stylish side tables available around New Zealand
Mass Side Table
$699 from Freedom
Embrace a touch of Euro-summer in your living space with this versatile handcrafted terrazzo side table. It’s perfect for bringing colour into a small apartment space or for holding a crisp glass of wine on the deck. The best part? Each table is unique due to the variations in the natural stone, and the individually hand-placed stones.
Specs:
- Width: 52 cm
- Depth: 52 cm
- Height: 48 cm
- Weight: 37 kg
Leah Side Table
$319 (usually $799) from Freedom
When is a side table not only a side table? When it’s also a piece of unique home decor. We are a touch obsessed with his artsy travertine table, which will elevate any space thanks to its natural stone and distinctive design. It’s sure to be a talking point for visitors – just don’t blame us if they invest in one for their own home.
Specs:
- Width: 36 cm
- Depth: 36 cm
- Height: 60 cm
- Weight: 13.1 kg
Mosman Side table
$999 from Freedom
Banish clutter with this strong and stable Australian marri timber side table. Its classic style will elevate the lounge or bedroom, and we’re fans of the felt-lined drawer to tuck away your valuable bits and bobs in within easy reach. We love a mix of aesthetic and practical here at YHG!
Specs:
- Width: 60 cm
- Depth: 60 cm
- Height: 45 cm
- Weight: 29 kg
Kew Side Table
$399 from Freedom
Modern, stylish and practical, this two-tier side table can be positioned handily alongside a couch or bed, making it perfect for smaller spaces needing double-tiered storage. Place a lamp or vase on top, or pull it in next to the couch as an easy spot to rest your tea. The bottom shelf is the perfect size to store a stack of magazines – perhaps your collection of Your Home and Garden magazines?
Specs:
- Width: 42 cm
- Depth: 37 cm
- Height: 67 cm
- Weight: 8.5 kg
Ally Side Table
$494 (usually $899) from Freedom
Those who prefer a more classic aesthetic can opt for the warm timber tones of this simple side table. The timeless shape will easily slot in alongside the furniture in your living room, while the sleek marble top adds a bit of pizzazz – plus makes an ideal spot to display family photos.
Specs:
- Width: 45 cm
- Depth: 45 cm
- Height: 55 cm
- Weight: 16 kg
How do you style a side table?
There are no strict rules when it comes to styling a side table – it should be a reflection of your personal style and taste. But a few good pointers to begin:
Balance: Ensure that the items you place on the side table are balanced in terms of height, size, and visual weight, to create a harmonious look.
Function: Make the side table work for you by prioritising items that serve a purpose, such as a lamp for task lighting or a drinks coaster.
Decorate: Then depending on space, add decorative items like small vases (maybe holding some greenery), candles, or small sculptures to add visual interest. Find some of our favourites at the Your Home and Garden shop.
Should my side table be higher than my bed or couch?
It’s up to you! Stylists generally recommend that your bedside table be level with or slightly below the top of your mattress. That way you don’t have to reach too high for your glass of water, book or to turn off the light when you’re lying in bed. For your couch-side table, it’s entirely down to what works for you. If your side table is used for practical items like a cuppa and a book, you might want it at arm’s height for easy reaching. For a vase, you of a vase, you might want a lower one so the flowers can sit at eye level. Have a play with what looks best.