Tidy surfaces start with somewhere to put things. This compact side table with drawer offers a flat top for a lamp, an open cubby for books and a hidden drawer for chargers, remotes and other odds and ends. A scalloped front and slim gold-tone legs add a soft, boutique feel to a living room or bedroom.

Cabinet Side Table with Cubby and Drawer

The upper cubby stays open, so paperbacks or a little basket stay in plain view. Beneath that is one drawer, its front cut in rounded waves. The pale stone-beige finish is gentle on the eye, works beside most sofas and beds, and leaves the legs to supply the glint of colour.

Table Size: 40 x 42 x 54cm

All of the above are manufacturer figures. A 5kg maximum load makes this a table for lighter items, like a bedside light, a cup and some paperbacks, not anything weighty.

Metal Runner Drawer and Scalloped Front

The drawer rides on metal runners, which the manufacturer describes as smooth-gliding. Its front follows the same arched shapes as the panelling around it, so the table looks tidy even when closed. Keep the contents light, since the overall top load is limited.

Gold-Tone Legs and Foil Finish

Four slim legs in a gold tone raise the whole unit clear of the floor. The body is particleboard and MDF with a foil-finished surface, and the supplier notes it can be wiped over after everyday marks. The cabinet is put together at home with the fixings supplied, and one person is enough. Cover comes from a two-year guarantee from the manufacturer.

Best Rooms for a Compact Cabinet Table

• Beside the bed: a lamp above and the phone lead tucked inside the drawer.
• By the armchair: room for a novel, spectacles and a brew.
• Hallway: keys and post kept out of sight.
• Spare room: a neat welcome table for guests.

Cleaning and Care

A well-squeezed soft cloth is enough for the surface. Dry it off afterwards, and keep it away from standing water, because the board underneath is not made to be soaked.