Occasional Tables

Decorative as well as utilitarian, the occasional table offers more than meets the eye. While some tables might seem to share a similar function, subtle differences characterize each one of them.

Coffee Table
A coffee table is a low table that sits in front of a sofa. Usually rectangular in shape, this table is used to serve coffee or drinks to guests.

Magazines or coffee table books are often placed on the table top if the coffee table does not have any additional shelf underneath. If a shelf is present, magazines and photo albums are usually placed out of the way on the shelf.

Some coffee tables may also have a lift-up, trunk-style top that opens to reveal additional storage space for books, extra cushions, and board games. Such tables are a great option for families with a number of children.

Cocktail Table
The term cocktail table and coffee table are often used interchangeably and have the same functions. Even though cocktail tables are available in different shapes and sizes, ideally, a cocktail table is slightly smaller than a coffee table, oval in shape or has rounded curves.

End Table
End tables usually come in pairs and complement the look and style of the coffee table. Mostly placed on either end of the sofa, the end tables offset the long, straight lines created by other living room furniture.

A colorful lamp or a beautiful floral arrangement placed on an end table can help add a warm and inviting look to a living room.

Sofa Table
A sofa table is normally a long, thin and tall occasional table placed against the back of a sofa or against a wall in the foyer.

Original 18th-century sofa tables and the ones with traditional styling often have small, rounded, drop-leaf ends and drawers.

A sofa table is a great place to store your keys and mail or display a vase full of fresh flowers. You can also showcase small artifacts and statuettes on the table top or on a shelf underneath.

Console Table
Similar to a sofa table, a console table is designed to stand against a wall and is supported by one or more carved legs. A console table can be placed either between windows or in your entryway. It usually has a matching mirror above it.

Lamp Table A lamp table is a small table, similar to an end table. However, unlike end tables, a lamp table is usually a single piece of accent furniture, mainly used for displaying a decorative lamp. Chairside Table Used to keep books and magazines handy, a chairside table is a small table, often with a shelf, that's normally placed beside a recliner or a comfortable chair. Accent Table Accent tables are attractive pieces of furniture used to create a point of interest in a room. While an Asian-style accent table with lacquer coating and hand painting might lend a distinctive look to a living room, care should be taken to make sure that your choice of accent table is not discordant to the overall look.

Nesting Tables
A number of progressively smaller tables that neatly store underneath one another when not in use are called nesting tables. These tables make the most of your available space and are extremely convenient in smaller living rooms and apartments.