Adjustable Side Table
Buy the best adjustable side table selected and recommended by interior designers. By Caroline Patterson.
Offering multiple options for work and display, an adjustable side table might just be what you need. These tables can be easily transformed into a compact desk or a pub table, depending on the occasion. Equipped with height-adjustable mechanisms, they’re easy to work with and can maximize the functionality of any room. Add to that, they’re designed cleverly and can fit casual and formal interiors. With these options from our design experts, you gain more flexibility with just one piece of furniture.
Adjustable Side Table
Buying Guide
Caroline Patterson
Interior Design Expert
Caroline is a young, New York-based interior designer and home decor writer, obsessed with textiles and designer furniture. Backed with rigorous training from a prestigious design school, as well as a profound understanding of material quality and fabric care, she offers spot-on advice on how to furnish your place with reliable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing pieces.
With the growing popularity of small space living, there also comes the need for multi-functioning furniture. Therefore, the use of an adjustable height side table could come in handy if you're living in a small space and need a workspace or dining table. The best part is you're no longer limited to using a fold-up TV table or tray when you'd like to complete these tasks anymore. Instead, you can design a stylish and multi-functional room.
It isn't uncommon for interior designers to use an adjustable height side table in small space designs. In doing so, it can double as a dining table, workstation, game table, or any other kind of surface necessary in the area. Some of the most common designs and styles include:
- Vintage Industrial: this style features natural finishes, square tops, and wrought iron bases that are optimal for kitchens, bar areas, or work areas.
- 20th Century Industrial: in addition to finding telescopic height adjustments, this adjustable height side table features a black cast iron metal base and small wooden round top.
- Contemporary: form meets function with this adjustable side table with a white rectangular top mounted on a chrome metal base.
The beauty of using an adjustable height side table is the fact that they are available in a wide variety of styles and materials ranging from combinations of metals and glass and wood. Therefore, depending on the kind of adjustable height side table you purchase, this will play a significant role in its care and durability. For example:
- Glass: tempered glass is durable, but you can’t use a glass cleaner on it because it will cause clouding. However, you can use a soft cloth that’s been dipped in warm water mixed with a mild detergent.
- Hardwoods: hardwoods including maple, oak, and cherry are the most durable. Dust the surface frequently, spot clean with a soft cloth that's been dipped in warm water mixed with mild detergent and that's been wrung out completely, and avoid using oil polishes.
- Metals: avoid using a spray cleaner on these surfaces because they’ll cause damage. Instead, dust the surfaces regularly and spot clean with a soft cloth that’s been dipped in warm water mixed with a mild detergent. Be sure to dry thoroughly following cleaning.
- Laminate: of all the materials, this is the easiest to maintain. All you have to do is dust it regularly and wipe it down with warm, soapy water when dirt accumulates.
Under most circumstances, the standard height for a side table is between 22" and 30". Therefore, it's essential to ensure the surface of the table is equal or slightly below the height of your sofa's arms when it's in the downward position. Some side tables fit or “nest” into the sofa’s seat when in their downward position, so be sure to take that measurement before shopping. You’ll also find some adjustable height side tables that will nest directly over the bedside when in their downward position. So, if your bed isn’t a standard height, be sure to take that measurement before heading to the store.