Side Tables for Your Modern Living Room

Furnish your living room with side tables to add convenient surface space. These essential pieces can be positioned on either end of the sofa and matched to coffee tables for a coordinated look.

Side and End Tables

There's basically no difference between side and end tables. As mentioned, you can place a table on either side of your sofa so people can set drinks down, preferably on coasters to protect your tabletop. West Elm has practical yet stylish beverage coasters in styles such as Marble Onyx, Constellation Glass and Stone Quartz, to name just three.

Side and end tables can also work well in a nook beside a cozy armchair. Or you can create a social space with a side table positioned between two accent chairs. Decorate the space with an accent rug, such as a shag or wool rug with an abstract motif. A bookcase can provide room for reading material and fill in the space; add a small lamp on the end table for soft illumination.

Table styles include C-side tables, sets of nesting tables and fluted pedestal tables. You'll find round side and end tables for a modern look, along with traditional square and rectangular tables. Some are equipped with shelves and drawers for storage, and there are tiered styles such as the sleek three-shelf Profile Side Table.

Impart contemporary style to your living room with a mixed-material end table, such as the metal-and-marble Hex Side Table. Or create a well-matched look with wood tables from the Mid-Century collection. The Mid-Century side table has drawers for stylish storage and goes with other pieces from this line. Some of these side tables --  such as the Cami Indoor/Outdoor Ceramic Round Side Table -- are suitable for placement next to your patio sofa or chairs because they're made to withstand the elements.

If you want an ultra-modern look that goes with virtually any living room furniture, consider tables made from clear acrylic. These transparent tables are sturdy and designed to save space. They're not just good for living rooms but also bedrooms and dorms. Plus, if you redecorate, these clear tables can stay put because they go with any color scheme.

Coordinating Coffee Tables

Put together a living room that's modern and elegant by matching your end tables to a coffee table from the same collection. If you prefer a more eclectic style, choose pieces from different collections in the same finish, material or style. Or mix things up with contrast by pairing a wood coffee table with marble side tables, for example.

Some of West Elm's end tables and coffee tables are contract-grade, which means they're durable enough for home or business use. Many are crafted from eco-friendly, sustainable materials.

Modern Sofas and Chairs

Shop the selection of side tables to find plenty of modern and contemporary styles. West Elm also has sofas and sectionals in modern styles and a variety of upholstery options that may include twill, velvet and leather. There are accent and lounge chairs, floor coverings, and window treatments to coordinate with your other furnishings.