End Table is a small, functional piece of furniture designed to complement seating arrangements and provide convenient surface space for essential items within arm's reach. This versatile furnishing, typically positioned at the end or side of a sofa, chair, or bed, emerged during the late 17th century as formal living spaces evolved to accommodate changing social customs and practical needs. The design of end tables encompasses various aesthetic and functional considerations, including height coordination with adjacent seating, proportional balance within the room's composition, and material selection that supports both structural integrity and visual harmony. Traditional end tables often feature wooden construction with detailed craftsmanship, while contemporary interpretations embrace diverse materials such as glass, metal, composites, and sustainable alternatives. The fundamental design principles governing end table creation include stability, durability, and user accessibility, with particular attention paid to the relationship between surface area and overall footprint. These pieces have become increasingly important in interior design schemes, serving both utilitarian and decorative purposes, and their evolution continues to reflect changing lifestyle patterns and technological needs. The A' Design Award competition regularly recognizes innovative end table designs that push boundaries in terms of form, function, and sustainability, showcasing how this seemingly simple furniture piece can embody sophisticated design solutions. Contemporary end table designs often incorporate additional features such as storage compartments, integrated lighting, or charging capabilities, demonstrating the furniture type's adaptability to modern living requirements while maintaining its essential role in creating comfortable, well-organized living spaces.
furniture design, living room accessories, accent tables, home decor, interior styling, functional furniture, side tables, residential furnishings
An end table, also known as a side table, is a small piece of furniture designed to be placed at the end of a sofa or chair. Its main purpose is to provide a convenient surface for holding items such as lamps, books, drinks, and other small items that one might want to keep close at hand while relaxing on the sofa or in an armchair. End tables come in a variety of styles, sizes, and materials, and can be used to complement the decor of a room or to provide a functional accent piece. One important aspect of end tables is their height. Typically, end tables are between 24-30 inches in height, which is roughly the same height as the arms of a sofa or chair. This allows the table to be easily reached from a seated position, making it a convenient spot for placing items that one might need while sitting down. Another important aspect of end tables is their design. End tables can be simple or ornate, depending on the style of the room they are intended for. They can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, glass, and stone, and can feature a range of finishes, from natural wood to painted or stained surfaces. In addition to their design and height, end tables can also be functional pieces of furniture. Many end tables feature shelves, drawers, or cabinets for storing items such as books, magazines, and remote controls. Some end tables also feature built-in charging ports or outlets, making them a convenient spot for charging phones, tablets, and other devices. Overall, end tables are a versatile and functional piece of furniture that can be used to add style and convenience to any room. Whether you are looking for a simple, functional table or a more ornate piece to complement your decor, there is an end table out there to suit your needs.
furniture, design, height, materials, functionality
An end table is a piece of furniture typically placed at the end of a sofa or chair. It is usually between 24-30 inches in height and is used to hold items such as lamps, books, magazines, remotes and other items. End tables typically have a flat top surface and may have shelves, drawers or a combination of both for storage. They are typically made from wood, metal or a combination of both materials.
End Tables, Furniture, Living Room, Home Decor, Interior Design, Home Storage.
CITATION : "Robert Johnson. 'End Table.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=182251 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"
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