If you are looking to create a room that has a cohesive, well-designed feel, then you need to invest in furniture pieces that connect with one another through color or pattern. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean purchasing pieces that match. A room that has matched sets throughout can come off looking predictable and rather uninspiring. Today, people who have an eye for design choose to buy furniture that complements each other. However, some people don’t know what pieces work for a certain area, particularly in terms of smaller furnishings – such as end tables.

Typically, end tables are placed on either side of a bed or sofa, although they can get sprinkled throughout different locations in a home. The trick is finding an end table that gives you dimension and versatility like the shagreen nightstand. These can be moved around from one space to another and compliment a lot of spaces. When buying end tables, here are some important considerations to keep in mind:

Shape

In terms of the end table’s shape, you should determine where you want to place the table and what shape works in there. For example, if you want to place the table in a certain corner, you may want a square piece. But you can consider mixing table shapes in a room. For an oval coffee table, rectangular or square end tables are a great contrast.

Materials

Again, you can also mix table materials. A marble and brass coffee table can look good in a space that has painted or wood end tables. You can pair a sophisticated rosewood coffee table with brass end tables. The materials for your tables can be different but their styles need to complement each other.

Styles

Did you know that mixing table styles can create visual interest in your space? Pairing your Birch-arm sofa with modern end tables creates an elegant-looking room. Also, you can match a mid-century or modern side chair with a conventional side table. 

Keep in mind that end tables do not have to match each other. Their sizes and styles just need to relate to each other for them to be acceptable on either side of your bed or sofa.

Size

End tables that go on either side of a sofa must have depth and height that are close to the depth and height of your sofa’s arm. This makes it easier for you to reach for items you place on the table when you sit on the furniture. However, if you cannot get something that fits perfectly, you can just go smaller than bigger.