What to Place on Your End Tables

End tables are small yet mighty pieces of furniture that serve both decorative and functional purposes in any living space. Strategically placed beside sofas, armchairs, and beds, end tables provide a landing spot for books, remotes, drinks, lamps, and more. Though end tables may be petite in scale, they present ample opportunity to infuse personality into your home's decor.

When styling end tables, creativity is key. You can tailor your end table decor to complement your tastes and the room's aesthetic. Whether your style is traditional, modern, rustic, or eclectic, your end table decor should enhance the overall look while offering purposeful utility.

Key Principles for End Table Decor

Follow these fundamental guidelines when decorating your end tables for a pulled-together look:

• Scale: Choose items based on the size of the end table. Use the rule of threes to style larger end tables, while smaller ones may require only a few items.
• Function: Consider the end table's location and function when choosing decor items. For example, a lamp and coasters may be necessary for a living room end table, while a potted plant or flowers may add life to a bedroom end table.
• Location: Decorate an end table based on its location in the room. For example, a foyer end table may feature a decorative case for keys, while a bedroom end table may include a clock or a book to read before bed.

Tips for End Table Decor

Follow these tips and tricks to create stunning end table displays:

• Less is more: Use 3-5 decor items on an end table to avoid clutter.
• Consider function: Include items that are needed for the space, such as a table lamp, coasters, or a plant.
• Incorporate nature: Add a vase with flowers, a potted plant, or a small tree to bring life to the end table.
• Use books to create height: Stack books to add height to decor items.
• Create a visual triangle: Place decor items in a triangular shape to create balance and symmetry.

Home Decor Items to Include on an End Table

Here are some stylish home decor items to incorporate into your end table displays:

• Table lamp: Choose a lamp that fits the room's decor and has a functional bulb, such as a Philips Hue White bulb.
• Coaster set: Protect your end table from spills and add a decorative touch with a coaster set.
• Plant/vase/flowers: Add a pop of color and texture to the end table with a small plant or a vase with fresh flowers.
• Picture frame: Display a favorite photo or artwork on the end table to add personality.
• Trinket dish/bowl: Keep small items, such as loose change or jewelry, organized with a trinket dish or bowl.

End Table Options

When selecting an end table, consider these options:

• Material: Choose an end table material, such as wood, glass, or metal, that complements the room's decor.
• Shape: Decide on a round, square, or rectangular end table.
• Size: Measure the space to find an end table that fits proportionally beside seating.
• Style: Select an end table with a style that matches your interior design, from classic to modern.
• Storage: Opt for an end table with a drawer or shelf to stash items.
• Multi-purpose: Consider a multi-functional end table that also serves as a lamp table, plant stand, or accent cabinet.

Creative End Table Decorating Ideas

Looking for inspiration? Try these creative ways to decorate your end tables with style:

• Collectibles display: Showcase special collectibles, like sea shells, antique snuff boxes, or vintage cameras.
• Themed vignette: Create a cohesive vignette with items related to a theme, like travel souvenirs or favorite books.
• DIY touches: Add handmade elements like decoupaged trays, painted tea light candles, or a crocheted tissue box cover.
• Unexpected items: Incorporate unique functional items like a tabletop zen garden, mini aquarium, or polarized stone.
• Color coordination: Tie your end table decor together through color, using hues drawn from the surrounding space.
• Layered textures: Combine glass, ceramics, wood, metal, and fabric textures in your end table decor.

Styling Your End Table Displays

Use these styling techniques to create stunning end table vignettes:

• Rule of three: Place items in grouped odd numbers for visual interest and balance.
• Change heights: Incorporate vertical layers by stacking decor items like books or candles at different levels.
• Mind the edges: Leave some open surface area around the edges to maintain functionality.
• Consider scale: Choose petite decor pieces that suit the size of your end table.
• Angle for interest: Place items at varied angles rather than squarely lining up.
• Skim clutter: Edit out excess items so each piece has purpose.

Seasonal End Table Decor

Keep your end table displays fresh by swapping decor seasonally:

• Spring: Flowers, butterflies, eggs, rabbits
• Summer: Seashells, starfish, sand dollars, sea glass
• Fall: Acorns, leaves, pine cones, gourds
• Winter: Pine branches, berries, mini trees, snowglobes

Adjust colors and materials, too. Light, airy decor works for spring and summer while warm tones and cozy textures shine in fall and winter months.

Common End Table Decor Mistakes

Avoid these pitfalls when decorating your end tables:

• Too many items causing clutter
• Objects blocking table functionality
• Items that are too large in scale
• Lack of purpose or connection between objects
• Outdated, damaged, or worn looking decor
• Disorganized jumble of items
• Forgetting lighting like a table lamp

When designing a space, consider these end table placement tips:

• Allow 14-18 inches between furniture for end table clearance.
• Place end tables about 18 inches from the arm or edge of a chair or sofa.
• Choose proportional end table sizes--too large or small will look off.
• In seating groups, use side tables in lieu of individual end tables.
• Flank beds with matching end tables on both sides for symmetry.

By keeping these best practices in mind, you can create functional, well-styled end table displays that elevate your home's decor. Have fun getting creative with your end table decorating endeavors!