There are as many end table styles as there are interior design schemes! To help you choose the right one for your home, we take a look at the most popular styles, from modern to traditional to farmhouse, and we also review all of the fun and functional design configurations available for each style. Keep reading to discover the range of end tables you can choose from to accent your home and interior design scheme.

Popular Styles
Top Shape
Base Type
Materials
Features

Popular Styles

No matter what interior design aesthetic you prefer, there's an end table for you! Review these popular style options to determine which end table aesthetic works best in your home.

1. Traditional: Traditional-style end tables tend to be made of rich woods and have ornate detailing, such as curved legs, inlaid tops, and upscale hardware. Often described as formal, traditional end tables can infuse a room with an upscale air. If you're looking for an approachable look, use traditional end table furniture sparingly in a room. Though, if you want to increase the elegance of your room, adding a small touch of traditional style will do the trick.

2. Modern & Contemporary: Modern & contemporary style end tables encompass a wide range of designs. Although contemporary and modern may seem interchangeable, contemporary style refers to what is currently popular. Often contemporary designs feature stark interiors with bold, bright accents. Though contemporary end tables can be made of any material, they're commonly constructed of glass, metal, Lucite, or wood in organic or angular forms. A contemporary end table will add a sleek feel to a room.

In contrast, modern-style furniture emerged in the late 20th century (and is exemplified by 1960s interiors), and is still a very prominent style today. This style highlights geometric forms, minimal detail, and simple designs. Typically, modern end table furniture is made with metal, plastic, and glass. When wood is used, the wood grain is showcased, not painted or covered.

3. Boho: Boho-style end tables infuse your space with color, pattern/texture, and global influence. Boho end tables include open-work wood details featuring floral patterns, woven rattan/wicker, metallic mosaic designs, or distressed metal with bold color finishes.

4. Farmhouse/Country: End table furniture in a farmhouse/country or cottage style usually has feminine lines and detailing. This style of end table is commonly made of wood, and oftentimes the wood is painted and/or distressed. An end table in the cottage or country styles will lend a soft, romantic vibe to a space.

5. Rustic: Rustic end tables look as if they have been around for years and they are predominantly made of weathered or distressed wood. This style of end table furniture can often have exposed metal accents, like nailheads or metal beams and legs. With their casual feel, rustic end tables provide the right contrast to sleek or shiny elements in a room.

6. Industrial: Industrial-style end tables are similar to rustic styles in their use of wood and metal materials. However, this end table design places a heavier influence on materials like metal and concrete. Industrial end tables typically include a weathered wood tabletop with a metal frame featuring rusted details, hammered metal finishes, or sleek black iron. Overall this end table style brings a cool, repurposed feel to your home.

7. Transitional: Transitional-style end table furniture falls between traditional and contemporary/modern furniture. It has a more casual feel with cleaner lines and functional features, such as drawers, shelves, and other storage compartments. Transitional end tables will fit in most deécor schemes as it's a middle ground in the style world.

8. Coastal: Coastal end tables include rattan/wicker or white-washed or gray weathered wood materials to convey a laid-back aesthetic. Some coastal designs even feature nautical motifs (oar table legs, compass table top designs, or rope drawer pulls), seashell patterns, or sealife-figurine bases.

9. Mid-Century Modern: Mid-century modern end tables feature retro designs popular in the mid-20th century (think sputniks, sunbursts, geometric patterns, half-circles, triangles, and abstract curves). This end table style is usually constructed with solid or engineered wood in medium or red wood finishes. They feature low-profile designs with hairpin or tapered legs. In addition to wood materials, mid-century modern end tables also favor gold metallic details for warmth and interest.

10. Glam: Glam end table furniture adds refined luxury to any space. These end tables usually have glass tabletops and metallic or mirrored frames in either gold or silver.

Top Shape

End table styles come in a variety of top shapes. The top shape of an end table influences the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and tabletop space you have to work with. Some are designed purely for style, while others are meant to fit in tight corners or in between furniture, or to maximize space for drink cups, reading material, and other items. Check out this section to explore the top end table shapes for your needs.

Square: End tables with square top shapes are perfect for maximizing your tabletop space. Square-top end tables are perfect for the open corner created between two sofas on adjacent walls, and they provide plenty of space for table lamps, TV remote storage, reading materials, or a drink tray. They also come in a variety of design styles!

Rectangle: Rectangle end tables have a long, narrow tabletop that makes them ideal for small spaces or tucked between furniture. They're paired with a wide range of design styles so you're bound to find one that matches your aesthetic.

Triangle: Triangle top shapes are mainly for aesthetic purposes because of their unique look. They typically come in modern, mid-century, or glam designs. They’re built on three-leg configurations to match the tabletop.

Round: Round end tables come in a range of design styles and are the easiest to maneuver around because they lack sharp angles. Round top shapes are common with four-leg, three-leg, and pedestal-style bases.

Oval: Oval end tables have a soft rounded shape that's more elongated then standard round table tops. This makes them more space-friendly. You can find oval-top end tables in almost any style!

Half-Circle: Half-circle end tables are another great space-saving option that comes in a range of styles. You can place them beside furniture or against the wall (with the rounded half facing outwards) without taking up much space. Half-circle designs are commonly used for nesting tables because you can move or reposition them to create a full circle when you need the extra table space.

Hexagon: Hexagon end table shapes are typically paired with boho, glam, or modern designs because of their fun shape. Although not the most space-friendly, hexagon end tables are sure to make a statement.

Free Form: Free-form end tables include live-edge wood or stone designs, intricate wood carvings, or organic shapes. Free-form top shapes are typically paired with modern, rustic, or ornate traditional design styles because of their unique range of shapes.

Base Type

In addition to overall style and top shape, you also need to consider which base type you want for your end table. An end table's base has an impact on the floor space around the table and also contributes to the aesthetic of the room. Review these options to determine which base type fulfills your requirements.

4 Legs: Four-leg bases are the most common for end tables regardless of style. This base type keeps the table level and sturdy, while also providing convenient anchor points for under-table shelving.

3 Legs: End tables with three-leg bases typically have either round or triangular tabletops and are common for modern or glam designs because of their unique appearance.

C Table: End tables with C-table bases have a unique shape (which looks much like a capital “C”) that allows the bottom portion of the frame to slide under furniture (perfect for eating or working from the sofa). The tabletop is supported by a one-sided leg configuration and a floor-level frame to keep the structure sturdy and upright.

Pedestal: Pedestal-base end tables typically have a wide table top attached to a singular table leg at the center. The main point of a pedestal base is to limit the amount of space the frame takes up. Pedestal bases can be lavishly decorated or barely noticeable. Their versatile design configurations makes them suitable for a wide range of styles.

Frame: Frame bases include a frame at the floor level of the end table that wraps around the base of the table legs for a sleek, modern look. Depending on the design, some frame end tables have open-work patterns that go from the underside of the table top all the way to the base.

Drum: As implied by the name, drum end tables have a cylindrical base that mirrors the shape of a drum or barrel. These end tables come in a variety of styles and materials. No matter which style you're after, drum end tables are sure to make a statement.

Block: Block end tables are ultra-modern due to their solid construction and square, angular shape. The above block end table is made of wood, but block tables can also be made out of plastic or stone.

Sled: End tables with sled bases have a convenient open space between two open-frame legs. Sled bases are commonly used as nesting tables because you can easily slide them out from under the larger table. These are common end table bases for modern or glam styles.

Trestle: Trestle bases consist of two trestle-style legs on either side of the end table. The legs are usually connected by a central support beam. The way a trestle table base is designed makes it easy to store items underneath or fit your legs under. Trestle end tables look best in traditional, farmhouse, or rustic settings because of their classic frame design.

Abstract: Abstract end table bases encompass a wide range of designs to add a bit of modern flair to any room aesthetic. Curved stone or wood shapes, unique metal frames, or sculptural legs add an artistic twist fit for a variety of styles!

Cross Legs: End tables with cross-leg bases take the traditional four-leg base and add a stylish twist. Depending on the configuration, this type of end table base can look modern or farmhouse-esque. Some end tables with cross legs utilize the space created for shelving or magazine storage.

Tree Stump: Achieve an ultra-rustic look with a tree stump-style base for your end table. Tree stump bases are either made from plastic or actual solid wood constructed to resemble a full tree trunk. However, there are also designs that use a real tree trunk with a protective finish for the ultimate statement piece.

Figurine: Add character with a figurine end table base to complement your room's theme. Introduce global influence with an elephant figurine base. Complete your ornate traditional space with a Greek statue figurine base. Or stay on theme with a bear figurine base for your mountain lodge.

Materials

When it comes to choosing a style for your end table, you also have a range of material options to consider. Match end table materials to your existing furniture or create a fun juxtaposition with an unexpected clash of materials. Here are some popular material options to consider for your end table.

Wood: There are three types of wood you can choose from for your end table: solid wood, engineered wood, and wood veneer. Solid wood is a popular but expensive choice. Because of its solid construction, this style will last for years. A variety of woods are available, like mahogany, oak, maple, and walnut. Engineered wood is mostly made from recycled materials and is a cheaper option. While this style is sturdy enough to take a few years of wear and tear, it's not considered a long-lasting investment. Wood veneer is made from thin cuts of valued wood, offering an expensive look at a budget-friendly price.

Medium- and dark-toned wood end tables fit in perfectly with traditional aesthetics and mid-century modern spaces because of their rich, dramatic appearance. Lighter-toned wood end tables are favored in modern and boho spaces because they promote a bright and natural feel. White-washed and gray wood end tables are perfect for coastal and farmhouse vibes because of their weathered, airy appearance.

Metal: Commonly combined with stone or glass tops, metal end tables are available in a variety of materials such as steel, aluminum, iron, and alloys. Many end tables feature a metal frame for strength because they're very sturdy and durable. Metal end tables can work in almost any aesthetic because of their versatile finish options and easily-moldable properties. However, this end table material looks best in industrial, rustic, or glam spaces.

Glass: Glass is most often used as the top surface of an end table, while metal or wood makes up the frame. Glass end tables add a sophisticated look in glam or modern interiors because of their crystal clear design. Mirrored end tables are another beautiful way to achieve a glass-like look while reflecting natural light! For a family-friendly space, opt for a tempered or shatterproof glass end table.

Stone: Add a sophisticated, organic element to your space with stone top end tables. This material comes in a variety of options including marble, granite, slate, and limestone. Stone tables are also super durable and hard to knock over, which makes it a great end table material in homes with active pets. Want the appearance of stone at a more affordable price? Consider marble-look options. Faux marble is made from a combination of elements like real marble, resin, sand, and stone powder to achieve the same beautiful look. Stone end tables can look modern, traditional, industrial, boho, or glam depending on how it's used. A marble tabletop and wood frame is more traditional, while a marble tabletop and gold metal frame says glam.

Plastic/Acrylic: Plastic or acrylic end tables are perfect for taking on futuristic forms, see-through designs, and bold colors thanks to their durable synthetic construction and color options. This makes them ideal for modern & contemporary spaces. Depending on the design, plastic end tables can take on the appearance of glass while remaining shatterproof and scratch-resistant for an ultra-durable alternative to clear glass. Their plastic composition also makes them lightweight, which makes it easy to move and repurpose end tables for TV dinners or impromptu work stations.

Leather/Faux Leather: End tables made with leather or a faux leather alternative add a buttery soft (or suede) appearance to the room. Some end tables feature leather upholstery on the tabletop or drawer portions, while others feature leather accents (like the buckles or leather edging on trunk-style end tables). Genuine leather end tables have unmatched quality thanks to their top-grain leather construction. Some come with fade- or scratch-resistant finishes that protect the appearance of the leather no matter how much time has passed. Leather end tables work best in rustic, farmhouse, and industrial interior design schemes because of their worn appearance.

Rattan/Wicker: Rattan and wicker end tables add warmth and texture to any room. Their woven pattern makes them ideal for coastal or boho settings where breezy design schemes and plentiful texture reins supreme. This end table material is also typically more lightweight than materials like solid wood while providing home interiors with the same wood-like texture (perfect for spaces where end tables need to be multipurpose and moved around often).

Features

Increase your storage, save space, charge your electronics, amp up aesthetic appeal, or prioritize durability with one or more of these must-have end table features.

Storage End Tables: A convenient and functional addition to any space, a storage end table can include drawers, trunks, cubbies, magazine holders, or shelves for instant organization. It also helps create a clutter-free space.

Nesting End Tables: Ideal for small space living, nesting end tables are a group of different-sized end tables that can easily be stacked underneath the largest table or instantly unstacked for extra tabletop space.

Tray Top End Tables: A tray top end table features a tabletop with a lip to neatly corral accents, cups, and more. They sometimes feature a portable tray to transport food from one room to the next.

Integrated Technology End Tables: End tables with integrated technology make it easy to charge your electronic devices without having to reach behind the sofa to find an outlet. These end tables come with a cord attached that plugs into standard household outlets. The USB ports and charging surfaces are typically located on the tabletop for easy access.

End Table Finishes: When choosing an end table, there are a variety of finish options to consider. Distressed wood end tables have a purposefully worn look that works well in rustic, coastal, industrial, and farmhouse aesthetics. Live edge end tables show off the natural grooves of wood or stone so you always feel close to nature (so they fit perfectly in boho interiors!). Glossy finishes give end tables a polished, clean look that's perfect for modern or glam spaces.

Durable End Tables: Ensure your end table will look pristine even after years of use by opting for a scratch- or stain-resistant design (perfect for households with pets and kids).

Portable End Tables: Portable end tables come with caster wheels so you can move and reposition them to your liking (minus the heavy-lifting and floor scuffs). This is perfect for setting up TV dinner nights or changing up your workspace location.

Tip!

Select an end table that fits perfectly next to a sofa, chair, or even a bed with our End Table Size Guide.

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