Before you buy...

1) Be bold

The side tables we've chosen are big on looks, but low on storage in order to make a real style statement. Treating them as stand-alone pieces rather than trying to co-ordinate them with living room furniture will also help you create a bold look.

2) Pick the right size

An end table or lamp table should be no taller than the arm of the chair or the sofa that it sits beside. If you're using a reading lamp, make sure the lower edge of the lamp shade comes no higher than the eye level of the person sitting in the chair - the light should cast on the page, rather than the eyes. If you plan to use your table for eating at or for working on a laptop, go for something with a little more height.

Solid Oak Cube Lamp Table, £248, Ideal Home Shop

Ready to buy? Click on to flick through our pick of the best side tables...

Chosen by Ideal Home

Photograph by Dominic Blackmore

This image contains:
- Neutral Wood Coffee Table
- Grey Carpet
- Grey Fabric Sofa
- White Lamp
- White Fabric Lampshade
Tags:
- side table
- living room furniture