A table is a piece of furniture with a horizontal surface that you can use for various purposes. It comes in various sizes, shapes, heights, and styles.
As such, you may have difficulty choosing the best table for your home. Still, you’ll be able to pick the perfect furniture if you know the different types of tables.
Based on Purpose
Accent Table
If you think that your room is missing something, you can try placing an accent table. This piece of furniture is small, and it is usually round or oval in shape. Its main purpose is to act as the main element that ties all the decor in the room.
On some occasions, adding an accent table is enough to change the aesthetic appeal of a space. As such, it can be a great investment, especially if you don’t want a piece of large furniture.
Plus, it can also save a ton of space because you don’t have to place multiple items to make your room visually appealing. However, you have to make sure that your other decorations will not overpower the table.
Bar Table
A bar table is the type of table often seen in bars, but it can also be placed in your kitchen or dining area. For its features, this piece of furniture is quite tall and best paired with tall bar stools. Some models are small and round, but most are large with a rectangular shape. Aside from that, there are also some bar tables with shelves and cabinets underneath the tabletop.
A bar table is a great addition to your home if you frequently host parties. It can also be added to your kitchen, which you can use for prepping or serving meals.
Bedside Table
A bedside table is a small table that is placed beside a bed, making it a convenient spot to place your lamp, books, smartphone, and medications. A bedside table has three different types, which include the following:
- Standalone Table – This type of bedside table only has a tabletop or surface where you can place your essential items.
- Bedside Cabinet – Aside from a flat surface, a bedside cabinet also has several drawers where you can place your books and other important items.
- Nightstand – A nightstand has a tabletop and one drawer. Its main function is to provide a surface for your lamp or clock.
Coffee Table
A coffee table is a vital part of any living room because it can anchor the style of the room, meaning that there are various ways to decorate around the coffee tables. Additionally, this piece of furniture is often placed at the center of a sofa; thus, it can serve as a great gathering spot for family and friends.
On the table, you can place the drinks and food you’re going to serve your guests. Aside from that, the shelf underneath can be an excellent spot for your remote, magazines, and books. Some coffee tables also have drawers, giving you more storage space.
Cocktail Table
A cocktail table is a stylish piece of furniture that can be a great centerpiece of a living room, garden, or any outdoor seating area. As its name implies, this table type is used as a surface for your snacks and drinks.
A great feature of a cocktail table is its compact size. To be specific, this piece of furniture is large enough to accommodate your food and drinks. However, it generally has one leg; thus, it won’t occupy a lot of floor space.
Console Table
A console table, a type of tv stand, is designed to hold gadgets and other media equipment, such as television and gaming systems. Because of their purpose, this piece of furniture is extremely durable. Plus, it is also stylish and functional at the same time. In fact, it can make your living room visually appealing.
Some console tables have display cabinets for your CDs, DVDs, and books. Some models also have cabinets that can provide additional storage space. Because of these features, a console table is a must-have for your living room.
Computer Table
A computer table is a piece of furniture designed to aesthetically and comfortably accommodate a computer and other office equipment.
This type of table can have a simple design wherein its surface is placed at the right height for ergonomic use. Some models also have a PC stand, keyboard tray, cable management holes, and drawers. Also, it comes in various shapes. The popular shape is the L-shaped table, which offers the most optimal surface for work.
C Table
A C-table is a great way to change your living room’s appearance because of its unique design. To be specific, this piece of furniture has a shape of the letter C, and it functions as a side table.
A great feature of this table is that you can easily move it beside a couch or sofa and place your food or laptop on its surface. That way, you can work or eat while enjoying the comfort of the sofa. Additionally, it can also function as a nightstand, and it can be used as a desk while you’re reading a book in bed.
Dining Table
A dining table is the most common type of table, and it is placed in a dining room. This piece of furniture provides ample space for you and your family and friends to sit and enjoy their meals. Aside from that, it can also make your dining room look visually appealing and inviting.
Dining tables come in various types, shapes, and sizes. Your size and shape will depend on how many people will use the furniture. For instance, you can pick a round or square-shaped table for four if you have a family of four.
Drop-Leaf Table
Drop-leaf tables are designed to have a fixed section in the middle and a hinged section on one side. The hinged section, also known as the leaf, can be folded; thus, it takes up less space compared to a regular table.
Because of its unique feature, this piece of furniture is perfect for homes with limited space. Its folding feature makes this table a great addition to a dining area or kitchen. Also, you can use this type of table as a work surface or sideboard.
Drum Table
A drum table is an old-fashioned type of table. In fact, it dates back to the 18th century; thus, it has an antique appeal. For its appearance, this piece of furniture is shaped like a drum, which is cylindrical.
A large drum table can function as a coffee table. To be specific, the round shape of the furniture can help add visual interest to the straight lines of the sofa. Additionally, two small-sized drum tables can also be used as end tables in your living room or bedside tables in your bedroom. Some models also come with cabinets, which serve as additional storage space.
End Table
An end table is typically placed at the sides of a sofa so that it can serve as a spot for food and drinks. Aside from that, you can also use an end table for decorative purposes. For example, you can place a lamp or sculpture on its surface. By doing this, you are enhancing the appearance of the table and the room.
An average end table dimensions are small; thus, it doesn’t occupy much floor space. Plus, it can be easily moved from one place to another, thanks to its compact size. However, you have to ensure that the end tables you buy will match the size of your sofa and room. That way, your living room will have a uniform look.
Folding Table
As its name implies, a folding table has legs that can be folded against its tabletop. As such, this piece of furniture can be easily stored when not in use. Plus, it is also made with lightweight materials, making it portable.
In fact, this type of table is an excellent investment. It can be used for various occasions, such as picnics, camping trips, and other outdoor activities. Also, you can use it if you have a lot of guests to entertain.
Foyer Table
A foyer table is the first piece of furniture your guests will see once they enter your house. For this reason, you should purchase a stylish foyer table. Aside from that, it should also have the correct size and height. Remember, you shouldn’t have to bend when putting things on this furniture.
A foyer table has a lot of functions. One, in particular, is a spot where you can place your keys and mail. Additionally, it can also be used to place decorative items. Some foyer tables also have drawers where you can store your belongings.
Nested Table
If you have limited space, a nested table is a handy piece of furniture because of its innovative design. To be specific, this table comes in sets of varying sizes that are stacked together. As such, the smaller table can fit into the larger table.
Because of its unique and convenient design, a nested table will save you a lot of floor space. Plus, you can use it in various ways. You can simply tuck it inside the larger table when you’re not using it. That way, your room will look organized and clutter-free.
Patio Table
A patio table is essential for any outdoor space, especially if you host barbecue parties in your garden or backyard. In fact, this type of table is the center of your backyard, and it can be a spot where you and your family and friends can enjoy great food.
Patio tables come in various styles and sizes. Like other types of tables on this list, the size of the table you’ll pick will depend on the number of people who will use the table. Some models also have holes where you can install an umbrella. That way, you’ll have a shade while dining outdoors.
Vanity Table
A vanity table is meant to hold vanity items, such as a mirror, makeup, brush, and perfume bottles. This piece of furniture is typically placed in a bedroom or any room designed for dressing up, like a walk-in closet.
Vanity tables are usually made of wood or glass. Wooden vanity tables are often preferred not only because of their beauty but their durability as well. On the other hand, glass vanity tables are gaining popularity because they are stylish and come in various colors.
Wall-Mounted Table
As its name implies, a wall-mounted table is installed on a wall. As such, it can be a great piece of furniture for those who don’t have a lot of space. The reason is that you can use this table in various ways. When not in use, you can simply fold it, allowing you to save some floor space.
Aside from that, mounting a table on your wall is not only functional. It can also make a boring wall visually appealing. Best of all, this type of table is affordable.
Workbench
A workbench may not have the style of other types of tables on this list. The reason is that it is designed for one purpose, which is to help you do your work. As such, this piece of furniture will only fit in the right environment, like your workshop.
Despite being simple in design, a work table is sturdy and durable. Aside from that, it also comes in various shapes and sizes, from a small corner table to a huge workbench.
Based on Material
Solid Wood Table
A solid wood table is a piece of furniture made with natural wood. As such, this type of table is not only durable. It also radiates a natural beauty that will surely make your room visually appealing. Plus, solid wood is easy to maintain. Once broken, you can also repair it with ease. Remember, most forms of damage on this material can be fixed by sanding it.
One downside of a solid wood table is the atmospheric pressure that can cause the wood to expand, resulting in splits and cracks. To avoid this, it is highly recommended not to expose your solid wood table to direct sunlight for a long period.
Wood Veneer Table
A wood veneer table is made with a thin layer of wood that is glued to a base material, creating a table that resembles a solid wood table. Keep in mind that the base material used to make this furniture is cheaper than wood; thus, it is not as durable as solid wood.
Because a wood veneer table is not made with natural wood, it is more affordable than a solid wood table. Aside from that, it is also environmentally friendly, and it is less prone to warping and splintering.
Despite its benefits, a wood veneer table has some flaws. For instance, the wood may absorb liquids, especially if it is not coated with polish. Remember, once a wood veneer table is damaged, repairs can be difficult and costly.
Marble Table
Marble is made with limestone that has undergone intense heat and pressure, leading to discoloration and patterns in the stone. As such, a marble table is one of the most beautiful types of table. In fact, it can add luxury to any room. Additionally, it is also durable, and it will last for a long time, especially when with proper care.
Keep in mind that marble is resistant to scratches and stains. For this reason, it is best to always use a coaster when placing drinks on this type of table. Re-sealing it from time to time is also recommended. Remember, marble is a porous material; thus, it is prone to moisture absorption. With proper maintenance, marble tables can definitely last for a long time, and they can be enjoyed by future generations.
Laminate Table
Laminate tables are among the cheapest types of tables. This material is made by pressing several layers of heavy-duty paper with melamine, which eventually hardens into a resin. The beauty of using laminate is that it can be printed with a decorative design. Usually, manufacturers print a wood grain design. As a result, the laminate table will look like a wooden table.
Even though a laminate table is cheap, it is quite durable. Plus, it is resistant to stains and scratches. Also, this type of table is easy to clean. The downside of this type of table is that it is not as sturdy as solid wood. Plus, it doesn’t have the natural beauty of wood.
Metal Table
A metal table has a stylish design that makes it a great addition to a modern room. Typically, metal is used to make dining tables, study tables, and work tables.
A metal table has numerous advantages. Aside from being stylish, this type of table is also sturdy and durable. Plus, it is also waterproof and fireproof. Another perk of opting for a metal table is that it is easy to clean and maintain. Best of all, metal tables occupy less space compared to wooden tables.
Despite being a great piece of furniture, a metal table is heavy. As such, you won’t be able to move this furniture around with ease.
Glass Table
Keep in mind that a glass table is not made entirely with glass. Typically, it has a metal or wooden base, while its surface is glass.
One of the greatest advantages of choosing a glass table is that it can make your room look elegant, making it a nice addition to a room with a contemporary design. Aside from that, glass can create the illusion of space. As such, it can make your room look more spacious.
Glass tables are certainly the epitome of elegance and style. However, this type of table is prone to smudges that can throw off its pristine appearance. Additionally, it is also high maintenance. Also, this type of furniture is a bit expensive.
Based on Style
Industrial Table
Industrial tables are often made with metal or wood, and they look natural and raw. A lot of homeowners opt for this table style because it can give your room some personality and character.
Farmhouse Table
A farmhouse table is made entirely of wood. Additionally, it delivers a traditional vibe, making your home feel cozy and inviting. Typically, farmhouse tables are best suited to rooms or homes with a country-style or traditional design.
Mid-Century Table
For a lot of years, a mid-century table is among the most popular styles of table. This is not surprising because it has a clean look that can make your room visually appealing.
Plus, this type of table is lightweight; thus, it can be easily moved from one place to another. Best of all, this type of table is available in various earthy and neutral colors, making it the perfect furniture for those who don’t like patterns and bold colors.
Minimalist Table
A lot of people opt for a minimalist table because of its simple design and functionality. Additionally, it also has a modern vibe, which is perfect for contemporary homes. Also, a well-designed minimalist table can be used as a centerpiece in any room.
Final Thoughts
As presented, there are numerous types of tables, which are categorized based on their purpose, style, and material. When buying a table, you have to consider these three factors. For instance, if you’re looking for a table that can function as an end table and a decoration, you can opt for a drum table.
Remember, it has an antique vibe that can enhance the appearance of your room, plus you can also use its surface to place your drinks or snacks. Of course, you also need to consider the material of the table to ensure that it can withstand the test of time.
