A sofa side table gives you somewhere for a drink, lamp or phone without making the room feel crowded. The right one is the correct height, fits the space and suits the style of your sofa. Here is how to choose.

Getting the Height Right

As a rule, a side table for a sofa should be close to the height of the sofa arm, either the same height or a few centimetres lower. That keeps things within easy reach, and it stops the table from looking too tall or too short. Measure the arm height before you buy.

Choosing the Width

Most sofa side tables are 35 to 50cm wide. If your sofa is next to a wall or in a narrow room, a slim or narrow side table for the sofa keeps the walkway clear. A narrow design, often 20 to 30cm wide, can even fit between a sofa and a radiator or wall. See our narrow and slim side tables.

Popular Types of Sofa Side Table

C-shaped and slide-under tables

A C-shaped table slides under the sofa so the top sits over the seat. It is good for eating or working on a laptop. An under-sofa side table also saves space.

Round side tables

Round tables are easy to walk around, which is helpful in family rooms. See round side tables.

Side tables with storage

A sofa side table with storage uses a drawer, shelf or cupboard to hide remotes and magazines. See side tables with storage.

Nesting side tables

A set that tucks together takes little space and opens out when guests visit.

Material and Finish

• Oak and wooden side tables add warmth. See oak and wooden side tables.
• Marble-effect side tables bring a smart look at a reasonable cost. See marble side tables.
• Gold or black metal side tables add a modern edge.
• Glass side tables keep a small room feeling open.

Matching Your Side Table With Other Furniture

Choose a finish that repeats something already in the room, such as wood tones on a TV unit or metal on lamps. Using the same shape as your coffee table can help too: round tables look natural with round coffee tables. See our size guide for more tips.

Styling a Side Table

• A lamp for soft light.
• A small plant or vase.
• A coaster and a book for relaxed evenings.
• Keep it uncluttered, so there is room for a cup.

Checklist

1. Measure the arm height and available floor space.
2. Decide whether you need storage.
3. Choose a shape that suits your walkways.
4. Pick a finish that matches the room.

Frequently Asked Questions

How high should a sofa side table be?

About the same height as the sofa arm, or slightly lower.

What is the best side table for a small sofa?

A small round or slim side table that does not take up much floor space.

Can I use two side tables?

Yes. One at each end of the sofa gives balance, but make sure there is room to walk.

Browse the full range of side tables and sofa and living room side tables.