In the world of living room furniture, the sofa and coffee table may be the stars, but your end tables are important parts of the supporting cast. Without end tables where would you put your lamps? Where would you set your drink? Where would you pile up the last week's worth of newspapers? End tables come in many shapes, sizes and styles, and this end table buying guide will show you how to buy end tables that will be just right for your home.
There are several factors to consider when shopping for the perfect end tables. You will want to be as concerned with quality as you are with style when selecting them because chances are, you'll be using them as well as looking at them for years to come. Besides what they're made of (quality) and what they look like (style), you'll also want to take into consideration how you will use them. Will you need a drawer in them to hide your remote controls, magazines and other things? Do you want end tables with shelves for books? Keep the function of your end table in mind as you shop.
Solid wood
This is the strongest, most attractive and most expensive way to make an end table. Many top-quality end tables are made entirely of solid wood, such as mahogany or oak.
Veneer-over-composite wood
Depending on the quality of the veneer, this can also make a high-quality end table because of the strength of composite wood. It is generally less expensive than solid wood but is sturdy and, if made right, can be very attractive.
Veneer-over-particle board
This can also look good depending on the veneer used; however, because particle board has less tensile strength than solid wood or composite wood, it may not last as long. It is also the least expensive form of construction. When purchasing end tables made with particle board, you will want to consider them as more of a short-term investment.
A note on wood veneers
Veneer is a thin layer of material applied to cover wood, and there are three types of wood veneers used in the construction of end tables. The best is wood veneer, which is made from thinly sliced hardwood; the next is vinyl veneer, which uses a photographic process to simulate the look of wood; and the third type is printed veneer, which means the look of wood is printed directly onto the board surface. This is the most affordable type of veneer used in end tables, but the difference in quality may be noticeable.
Other materials
In addition to these traditional materials, end tables also come in a variety of alternate materials. Alternate materials are often used in more contemporary styles. These include rattan, wicker, glass, leather and metal. In choosing an end table material, style is often as much of a deciding factor as quality or durability.
End tables come in many styles with variations of traditional and contemporary living room furniture. While there is seemingly never-ending number of end table styles to choose from, here are the main styles you may wish to consider:
Antique-style end tables: An old-world appearance means that these end tables would fit into a home with Victorian or Edwardian design influences.
Art Nouveau end tables: These end tables are rich in ornate curves and swirls, lending an old European feeling to a room.
Mission end tables: With their straight lines and a focus on function, sturdiness and natural beauty, mission end tables are right at home in an arts-and-crafts style home.
Art Deco end tables: Art Deco end tables feature simple, geometric lines and a vintage flair.
Shaker end tables: In the subdued Shaker style, these end tables offer a comfortable, country feel.
Modern end tables: For the home with a contemporary look, modern end tables offer clean, well-defined lines.
Handcrafted end tables: For the eclectic home, a handcrafted end table will add the right touch.
Even more basic than the style of end table that's right for you is how it will fit into your room. End tables can be square, rectangular, round and even oval. Some end table even nest together. One shape of end table may go better next to a recliner, while another may be perfect next to a sectional sofa. Look carefully at the room in which you will be placing the end tables. Is dark wood or light wood prevalent? Is it a small room or large room? Will the table go in a corner, against a wall or in the middle of the room? These basic questions will help you narrow your choices and start you in the right direction.
What size of end tables should I buy?
While that is a question you must decide based on personal preference, some of the things you should consider are the sizes of your sofa and coffee table, the size of the room, the placement of the tables and how you intend to use the tables. For example, if you have large living room lamps to place on them, you'll need larger end tables than if you will simply be using them for decoration and for holding your drinks.
If I purchase end tables made of hardwood, will I need to oil them occasionally?
Oiling furniture was the original method used to preserve and protect the life of hardwood furniture. However, it is a high-maintenance process and doesn't necessarily offer adequate protection for the wood. Today, most wood furniture will be finished or covered in a sealant to close off the pores of the grain. Sealers produce a smooth level surface while offering protection from heat, dryness and moisture. If the hardwood end tables you buy have a sealant, oiling is unnecessary.
Are solid hardwood end tables always the best choice?
With advances in technology, some of today's wood veneers may be difficult to distinguish from solid wood composition. Solid wood furniture is an investment and has its benefits, but it's more susceptible to changes in humidity than a veneered piece. In a dry environment, wood contracts, while in moist conditions, it expands. High-quality veneered end tables are much less susceptible to expansion and contraction. Carefully weigh these facts in determining how "care free" you want your furniture to be. Price will also be an important consideration.
Matching your tables
Many of Overstock.com's end tables also have matching sofa and coffee tables. Why not get the set together and have perfectly matched living room tables? Your friends and family will think you've taken interior decorating classes!
Update the rest of the room
Why stop with the end tables? Overstock.com also offers a huge selection of other living room furniture, including entertainment centers, sofas and loveseats and chairs. Everything you need to decorate your living room can be found easily when you are at home with the "O."
Finish your living room off in style
Once you've completely furnished your living room, finish it off with home decor from Overstock.com. We have a wide selection of area rugs, art, ceiling fans, window treatments and much more for you to choose from. With Overstock.com, you can make your living room as unique as you are without spending a lot.
