End Table Style Guide

There may be just 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 six most popular styles, from modern to cottage.

6 Common Styles

1. Traditional

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

2. Contemporary ​

Though 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 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.

3. Transitional​

Transitional 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 décor schemes as it's a middle ground in the style world.

4. Rustic ​

Rustic furniture looks as if it has been around for years and is predominantly made of weathered or distressed wood. This style of 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.

5. Cottage/Country ​

Furniture in a 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.

6. Modern

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

Popular Materials

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.

Glass * For a family-friendly space, opt for a tempered or shatterproof glass end table. Glass is most often used as the top surface of an end table, while metal or wood makes up the frame.

Wood * There are three types of wood you can choose from: solid wood, engineered wood, and wood veneer. Solid wood is a popular, but expensive choice. Because of it's 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.

Stone * Add a sophisticated, organic element to your space with stone top end tables. This material comes in a variety of materials including marble, granite, slate, and limestone.

Common Features

Storage End Tables * A convenient and functional addition to any space, a storage end table can include drawers, baskets, cubbies, magazine holders, or racks 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.

• 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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