Your home is a reflection of your personal style, and the living room is its most central space within. It's the place where you and the family chill out, enjoy TV shows and entertain guests.
We all know that the sofa, cushions and rugs are essential components of any living area, but what about the side table? It's a key piece of furniture that most people don't even think about - until they notice the eyesore in the room.
If you prefer something other than the traditional side table, this post will give you a range of alternatives that will add style to your home and turn a simple piece of furniture into a visual point of interest.
Create A Drinks Trolley
A drinks trolley is a great way to add glamour to your living room. It's also practical, as you can use it to store and serve drinks. There are some fabulous vintage trolleys on sites like Etsy, or you can buy new ones from companies that specialise in unique designs.
Remember, you can save money by repurposing your current side table. Put some wheels on it, repaint it, and you've got a homemade drinks trolley/side table.
Use A Stool Or Wooden Bench
A stool is an excellent alternative to a side table because it takes up less space and can double as extra seating when you have guests over. Plus, there are so many different designs to choose from.
You can go for a vintage-inspired design, a sleek and modern stool, or something brightly coloured to add a pop of fun to your living room.
Wooden benches are also great alternatives, as they'll offer more storage space but can easily accommodate groups of people.
Go Back To Basics With A Nested Table
Nested tables are simple, elegant and take up very little space. They're perfect if you live in a small home or apartment where every square inch counts.
You can buy nested tables ready-made from most furniture stores or DIY them using two small side tables that you already have. Just put one table on top of the other, and voila - instant nesting table.
Let's not forget that these tables don't have to be boring; you can find some stunning contemporary side tables that make an instant statement.
Choose A Stack Of Trunks
If you want a rustic feel in your living room, opt for a stack of trunks instead of a side table. It's a great storage solution, as you can use the trunks to store blankets, cushions and other living room essentials.
While some people might not like using trunks as side tables, if you love weird and wonderful finds from around the world, then trunks can add some character to your home.
Get A Transparent Side Table
Make your living room appear bigger and brighter with a transparent side table. These tables are perfect if you want to create the illusion of more space, as they don't block light or take up much visual space.
There are plenty of different designs, so you're sure to find one that fits in with your existing décor.
Turn A Plant Stand Into A Side Table
If you have a plant stand that you're not using, turn it into a side table. Add a round piece of glass or wood to the top, and you've got an instant side table that's both practical and stylish.
There are loads of different plant stands to choose from, so you can find one that fits your taste and style.
Celebrate Industrial Style With A Wire Side Table
Wire side tables are perfect for a contemporary living room. They're light, airy and won't take up much space. Plus, they come in various styles, so you can find one that's just right for your home.
Industrial style is so popular now, and it plays on loft-style apartments. Luckily, with a bit of creativity, you can turn any home into your dream space that oozes contemporary appeal.
Grab Some Radiator Covers
Radiator covers are a great way to add extra storage and surface space to your living room. You can find them in various styles, from contemporary to traditional.
Make sure you measure your radiator before buying a cover, as they come in different sizes. Better still, you won't have to spend a fortune on a new table and can still add some visual detail to your living room.
Floating Shelves
If you're short on space but want a place to store drinks, magazines and remotes, floating shelves can serve as a great side table. Floating shelves are easy to install and come in a range of different styles.
Ensure you don't overload the shelves with too much stuff, as this can cause them to sag over time.
Barrels or Crates
Ok, contemporary style is great, but some people won't settle for anything other than genuinely rustic. Use barrels or crates as side tables for a traditional living room aesthetic. You can usually find these at your local flea market or antique store.
If you're using a barrel, make sure you sand it down and give it a good coat of paint before you use the barrel in your home. It protects it from the elements and keeps the barrel looking rustic - but fresh for years to come.
Do Living Rooms Need A Side Table?
While side tables are standard in living rooms, they're not essential. However, people with children and pets will know that leaving drinks on the floor often leads to spillages, and a side table can protect your belongings.
You don't need a huge table, but the benefits of having one far outweigh the cons. Also, these tables always look great and will keep your floors nice and clean.
The Bottom Line
Just remember to choose something that's both practical and stylish, as the side table will inevitably get a lot of use. With so many options available, you're sure to find an alternative that suits your taste and style.
So, what are you waiting for? Get shopping today and enhance your living space.
