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Often an afterthought, end and laptop tables have a small footprint but a larger impact than many might expect. Robert Bill, a Copenhagen sales and design associate, agrees: “Side tables are integral to both the practical functionality and aesthetic appeal of a well-designed space.” Small and portable, these tables provide an accessible way of engaging in a variety of activities in any size and type of space. And according to Bill, “taking the time to select side tables that align with your needs, style preferences, and the overall design scheme of your home can significantly enhance the livability and beauty of your living spaces.” Read on to discover the wealth of benefits, design possibilities, and unique uses that make these small but mighty tables an essential furnishing.
At their core, end and laptop tables are “practical additions that can significantly improve both the usability and appearance of a room,” Bill starts. “They add functionality by maximizing surface area, providing storage options, enhancing a room’s aesthetics, and offering flexibility in smaller interiors where space efficiency is key.”
A major benefit of incorporating end and laptop tables into your home is the immediate convenience they offer by holding essential items. Because of their small size, they’re designed to fit next to a variety of other furniture, including sofas and beds, giving you easy access to whatever is placed on them. Whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning (or evening), your current read, the TV remote, or your laptop, having your belongings close by makes relaxing easier and moving between activities faster.
Laptop tables have even more advantages; their lightweight frames make them easier to move around than traditional desks, allowing you to carry out work tasks from any spot in your home. Place one at your favorite window to enjoy some natural light or utilize it in the kids’ room while you supervise craft time. Height adjustable laptop tables like Serif have the added benefit of allowing you to customize your comfort, improving your posture and productivity. Bill also suggests incorporating a laptop table into your space to “enhance its style and aesthetics in several meaningful ways” by choosing one that “adds color, storage, or personal touches while still offering practical functionality for work-related tasks.”
Both end and laptop tables are also space-saving, making them a great fit for any size of room. More portable than coffee and dining tables, they can offer extra support wherever you need, from holding a lamp for extra lighting (mitigating the need for an additional floor lamp), to storing items you don’t have a spot for. Many end tables now include built-in shelves or drawers, like the Cora, helping to minimize clutter and keep your space tidy.
Naturally versatile, end and laptop tables are usable in different areas for various purposes. Using an end or laptop table in the living room for storage can free up tabletop space on your coffee table, giving you room to eat, play games, or any other activity you enjoy. Similarly, utilizing an end table as a nightstand in the bedroom or a laptop table as a work surface in a home office can increase the flexibility of activities you engage in, and even reduce your need for additional furniture.
Beyond their functional versatility, end and laptop tables also offer a realm of design possibilities, with each having a unique look and feel. Available in a range of colors, shapes, and materials, they can be used to add character to your space and to enhance your current decor. In general, it’s best to choose a table that complements the overall look and feel of the room. “By selecting end tables that align with the design principles of your space—whether modern or traditional—you can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a harmonious environment that feels inviting and cohesive,” Bill states.
If you have a more modern space, then slim, minimalist designs with glass or steel accents would work well, keeping that light and airy feel. Bill suggests the Twister side table for a modern look because it “blends effortlessly to form a Z-shaped table with crisp, sleek edges.” If you prefer something a little softer, try Dino and its rounded triangular glass top that fits smoothly in nooks and corners.
If you’re working with a more traditional style of environment, look for tables that have subtle elegant details, like the leaf-shaped base of Ellipse, or ones that utilize wood to add warmth and texture, like Calypso and its walnut drawer. Bill’s personal favorite is the Cora end table with its “classic charm that’s both traditional and functional, with integrated power management.” And for a space that embraces the authenticity of industrial design, metal-focused tables with stone and other natural materials add structure and striking visuals, like Jude's textured concrete top and Erik’s black iron frame.
With so many options, you’re sure to find the ideal end or laptop table to complement you and your space’s unique style.
With their conveniency and style adaptability, end and laptop tables are like a reliable friend – but they can still surprise you. “Even without the need for additional tabletop space, incorporating an end or laptop table can enrich a living environment by supporting hobbies, organizing supplies, enhancing ergonomics, and contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal of the room,” Bill states. “They can provide a dedicated area that encourages creativity and enjoyment of personal interests within the comfort of the home.” Using these tables in unexpected ways can further elevate your home, customizing it to your unique needs and hobbies.
Perhaps you’ve been searching for a way to incorporate plants into your living space – consider using end tables with minimalist, symmetrical structures as plant stands. With a simple circular tabletop, the Galaxy end table allows your greenery to stand out, featuring a basketweave textured base that adds to the natural look. Similarly, the Terrace lives up to its name, with a structure that resembles a roof terrace, inviting you to place an overflowing plant on its top. Used as a display spot for other decor, end tables add even more depth to your space, serving as the perfect podium for your beautiful flora and fauna.
If you’re a voracious reader, you might be interested in creating a reading corner or finding more storage space for books. Turning an end or laptop table into a mini bookshelf is easier than you think; with its spacious top and lower shelf, Marconi has ample room to display your favorite reads. Use your books as decor by facing the spines outwards on each side of the bottom of the table; this has the bonus of making each title easy to read. For something better suited for a reading nook, consider a rolling laptop table like Deco; you can create a tower of books below the tabletop or keep it open to slide over a reading chair. Whether you want to extend your reading collection or make a sculpture of books, an end or laptop table can help.
Additional seating and table room are sometimes needed in any living space, especially if you enjoy entertaining or hosting guests. If you already have an ottoman or chaise lounge, pulling up a table with a versatile design like Piva instantly creates a spot for another person to dine, read, or type. Similarly, having a laptop table like Bink on hand can accommodate any guests that need to work during their stay. Its mobile steel structure can easily fit in a guest room or be used outdoors when needed.
From their spectrum of functions and styles to their customizable uses and possibilities, end and laptop tables are a must for any living space. Shop Copenhagen’s diverse collection to discover the limitless potential of a well-chosen side table.