In relation to furnishing your front room, it’s straightforward to get caught up within the larger items, like sofas, espresso tables, and TV stands. Don’t get us flawed, these objects are definitely vital, however we’re agency believers that the smaller items, like finish tables and aspect tables, additionally play an vital function in pulling the house collectively.
Whereas these phrases are sometimes used interchangeably, there are refined variations between finish tables and aspect tables that may aid you make the only option in your house. In the present day, we’ll be breaking down the variations between the 2. Let’s get into it.
What Is an Finish Desk?

An finish desk is historically positioned on the finish of a settee (therefore its title!) or subsequent to a chair in a dwelling space. Its main perform is to offer a floor for small objects like a lamp, a cup of espresso, or a e-book. Finish tables are often small, compact, and designed to enhance the peak of the seating they’re positioned beside.
- Typical Location: Subsequent to a settee or armchair.
- Peak: Normally matches the armrest of the couch or chair for simple attain.
- Design Function: Purposeful, with sufficient floor space for private objects, typically that includes drawers or cabinets for further storage.
Finish tables are perfect for offering a handy house in your on a regular basis necessities whereas sitting. Since they’re typically discovered on the “finish” of furnishings preparations, their main perform is to mix seamlessly into the general decor.
What Is a Facet Desk?

Facet tables, alternatively, are extra versatile by way of placement and design. Not like finish tables, which have a selected location subsequent to seating, aspect tables may be positioned wherever in a room. They may stand alone subsequent to an accent chair, fill a nook house, and even function a small, ornamental desk to show crops or artwork items.
- Typical Location: Will be positioned wherever—beside furnishings, in hallways, or as a standalone accent piece.
- Peak: Extra versatile in peak and measurement in comparison with finish tables, permitting them to suit into numerous areas.
- Design Function: Whereas nonetheless useful, aspect tables typically have a extra ornamental function and are available in numerous shapes, sizes, and supplies.
Facet tables are nice for bringing steadiness to a room’s format. If in case you have a clean wall or a big, open house, a aspect desk serves as the right ornamental piece, serving to to fill the world with out overwhelming it.
When to Select an Finish Desk vs. Facet Desk

So, which desk must you select? Effectively, if you happen to’re on the lookout for a sensible desk to put subsequent to your sofa or recliner to carry your drinks, remotes, or a studying lamp, an finish desk is the way in which to go. Its compact measurement and particular peak make it good for reaching over and grabbing what you want with out getting up.
For these on the lookout for a flexible piece that may serve totally different capabilities all through your property, alternatively, a aspect desk is a greater possibility. Whether or not you want a classy desk for a hallway or a floor for décor objects in a front room nook, aspect tables provide extra flexibility in design and placement.
Can You Use Each?
Completely! Many people select to make use of a mix of finish tables and aspect tables for a extra layered look. As an example, an finish desk would possibly sit on one aspect of a settee, with a extra ornamental aspect desk positioned elsewhere to tie the room collectively visually.
Although the phrases “finish desk” and “aspect desk” are sometimes used interchangeably, understanding the variations can assist you select the appropriate one in your house. Discover our assortment of stable wooden furnishings, handcrafted in Vermont, to seek out the piece that mixes timeless design with high quality craftsmanship.