Side tables. You know, those little gems that hold your coffee cup, remote, or a stack of magazines (that you swear you’ll get to reading one day). But wait—before you run off to grab one, have you ever stopped to consider: How tall should a side table actually be? It’s one of those sneaky details that can make or break the look and function of your space, but it’s not something most people give much thought to.
Well, lucky for you, I’m here to dish out all the details so you can confidently choose the perfect height for your side table.
The Golden Rule: Table Height Should Match the Seat Height
Before you get all excited and rush to buy the first side table that catches your eye, let’s start with the most important principle: the height of your side table should be in proportion to the height of your seat. That’s right! Whether your side table is sitting next to a sofa, chair, or even your bed, its height should be roughly the same as the height of the seat (or a little bit shorter). Why? Well, for starters, it ensures that reaching for your drink or remote doesn’t feel like an Olympic event.
Here’s the thing: A side table that’s too tall can feel clunky and awkward, forcing you to lean uncomfortably to grab your coffee cup. On the other hand, a table that’s too short might require you to stretch or crane your neck in a way that just isn’t cute. So, for optimal comfort, go for a height that lines up with the seat, or just a couple of inches below it.
Standard Measurements for Different Spaces
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of measurements. These guidelines will help you find the perfect side table for various scenarios:
1. Sofa Side Tables: For most sofas, the seat height is around 18 inches from the floor to the top of the cushion. In this case, your side table should typically be between 22 and 24 inches tall. This way, the table sits comfortably next to the sofa, with just enough space for you to easily reach for whatever’s on it without straining.
2. Chair Side Tables: If you’re looking for a side table to complement a chair, you’ll want the height to be in the same range as the armrest of the chair. Most armrests sit around 24 to 28 inches high. So, a table that’s 22 to 28 inches tall is usually ideal.
3. Bedside Tables: When it comes to your bedroom, the ideal height for a nightstand is usually around the height of your mattress, or just slightly below. This makes it easy to reach for your book, phone, or glass of water without having to sit up. A typical mattress height is about 25 inches, so a nightstand that’s 24 to 28 inches high should do the trick.
When to Mix It Up
Of course, you don’t have to follow these rules with military precision. Sometimes, mixing things up can create a more dynamic and interesting look. If you have an oversized armchair, for example, you might want a taller table to match its stature. Or, if your couch is a low-slung, minimalist style, a lower table might complement it better.
For the daring decorator, you can even play with different heights to create an eclectic, layered look. Perhaps you have a tall table on one side of the sofa and a shorter one on the other—this can add visual interest while still keeping everything functional.
Things to Keep in Mind
While height is crucial, it’s also important to think about other factors like style, functionality, and space. A table that’s too big or too small for your room might crowd the space or feel out of place. Consider the layout of your furniture and the flow of the room—if you have a small space, opt for a more compact table that doesn’t overwhelm the area. Conversely, in larger spaces, you can go bigger and bolder.
Also, don’t forget about the purpose of your side table. Is it just for decorative purposes? Or do you want it to be a practical, everyday surface? If you plan on using the table regularly for drinks, snacks, or working on your laptop, a taller table might offer more convenience.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect height for your side table might seem like a small detail, but it can make a huge difference in both the aesthetics and functionality of your space. Whether you’re curling up with a book, chatting with friends, or just kicking back with a drink, having the right side table height ensures that you’re always comfortable.
So, next time you’re on the hunt for a side table, remember: height matters! And now, armed with this expert knowledge, you’re ready to shop with confidence.
