In interior design, every element is intentional. From the lighting fixtures to the shape of a coffee table, each choice contributes to the overall flow, balance, and function of your space. And that includes your side table.
You might think a side table is just a spot to rest your coffee mug or place an indoor plant, but in reality, it’s an important piece of furniture that holds the room together both functionally and aesthetically.
But here’s where it gets tricky: should you go with a round side table or a rectangular one? The choice comes down to how well that table integrates with your space, your lifestyle, and your decor.
In this blog we understand the perks of both choices and learn how to pick the right one for your space.
Why Does the Shape Matter in Your Home Design?
The shape of your sofa side table affects how easy your room is to navigate and how balanced it looks. A round table can soften sharp angles in a room, while a rectangular table can echo clean lines and create symmetry.
Think of your layout. Is your living room compact or open? Does your sofa sit against a wall or float in the middle of the room? These small yet crucial details will guide your choice.
Benefits of a Round Side Table
Round side tables are a favourite in modern and minimalist home designs for their soft, organic look. Here’s why they might be perfect for your space:
● Promotes Better Movement & Flow: The curved edges allow us to move around in tight spaces, ideal for smaller or high-traffic areas. They make it easier to navigate without bumping into corners.
● Child-Safe Design: If you have toddlers or young children, round tables are a safer option. No sharp corners means safer play zones if you have little ones running around.
● Balances Harsh Lines in Decor: Living rooms often have plenty of angular elements like rectangular sofas, media consoles, and rugs. Adding a round side table to the room brings visual softness, making the room feel more inviting.
● Creates a Natural Focal Point: A well-designed wooden or marble side table with a metallic base can serve as a design statement of your space.
Benefits of a Rectangular Side Table
If you prefer clean lines, structured layouts, and a bit more surface area, rectangular side tables are for you. Here’s why they might work best in your home:
● Maximises Usable Space: Rectangular side tables offer more tabletop area, which means more room for essentials like trays, mugs, books, and decorative accents. For those who’re looking for a bed with side table, rectangular options are best.
● Seamless Integration into Layouts: Their shape makes them easier to align with sofas, walls, and beds, making them a smart choice for symmetry lovers.
● Functional Storage Options: Because of their shape and size, rectangular side tables often come with added storage such as drawers, open shelves, or cabinets.
Can We Mix Both?
Yes. You don’t have to pick one shape and stick to it. Mixing round and rectangular side tables for the living room can make the space feel more dynamic.
How to mix successfully:
● Balance the Room: Use shapes to balance visual weight across the room.
● Repeat Elements: Match table finishes or colours even if the shapes differ.
● Layer Heights: Vary the height of each table for an interesting visual effect.
Pro tip: a round wooden side table can sit next to a recliner, while a rectangular one works at the end of the main sofa.
How to Pick the Right Side Table for Your Home: Quick Guide
● Check Material: Match the table to your existing furniture. Go for wooden side tables if your room leans warm and classic, or metal/glass for modern spaces.
● Check Size and Height: Make sure the table isn’t higher or lower than the sofa arm by more than a few inches. This keeps everything within easy reach.
● Check Room Space: Measure before you shop. Round tables are better in tight spots. Rectangular ones fill wider areas more efficiently.
● Match Room Aesthetics: Think of the overall look. Choose shapes and styles that match your theme, whether it’s modern, Scandinavian, or traditional.
Final Thoughts
A side table may be small, but the right one improves both function and flow in your living space. Choosing between a round or rectangular side table depends on your room aesthetics, size, layout, and how you plan to use the table.
Popular brands like Royaloak offer a variety of side tables for living room setups, whether you're after clean lines or soft curves. Browse their collection to find the perfect shape, size, and material for your home. Shop now.
