If you’re looking for inspiration to buy or create your wooden side table, you’ve come to the right place. As a woodworker, my first project was to create a pine wooden side table. I had no clue what I was doing, and although I might not be proud of it now, it was a great way to learn woodworking.
My second attempt, as you can see, was much more elegant. Instead of just using screws, this one had mortise and tenon joints, and it was just a much better-looking design.
So, this list of gorgeous side and end tables is just as inspirational to me as it will be to you, as I try to make more meaningful stuff from my new woodworking workshop. Although I have not built one in a long time, it’s certainly on my list of projects to complete this year.
My List of Amazing Wooden Side Tables
To see more designs, check out this Pinterest board, and make sure you follow me on Pinterest.
Wooden Side Tables Vs. End Tables
The terms “side table” and “end table” are often used interchangeably, and the distinction between them can vary depending on personal preference, regional usage, or context. However, there are some general differences that can help differentiate between the two:
- Placement: Traditionally, a wooden end table is placed at the end of a sofa or beside a chair, hence the name “end” table. It’s meant to be placed at the end of seating furniture to provide a surface for items like lamps, drinks, or books. A side table, on the other hand, can be placed anywhere beside or near seating furniture, not necessarily at the end.
- Size and Shape: End tables are often square or rectangular in shape to fit snugly against the end of a sofa or chair. They may be taller than side tables to be more easily accessible from a seated position. Side tables can vary more in shape and size, and they may also be lower in height, suitable for placing next to a lower piece of furniture like a lounge chair.
- Functionality: While both side tables and end tables serve similar purposes, end tables are sometimes considered more functional for specific uses, such as holding lamps or providing storage options like drawers or shelves. Side tables may have a more decorative role or be used for a wider range of purposes, including holding decorative items or serving as a small workspace.
- Design: Because end tables are often positioned more prominently at the end of seating arrangements, they may be designed to match the overall aesthetic of the sofa or chair. Side tables, being more versatile in placement, can vary more widely in design and style, from minimalist to ornate, and may not necessarily match other furniture pieces as closely.
- Usage: End tables are typically associated with living room furniture arrangements, whereas side tables can be used in various rooms throughout the house, including living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and even outdoor spaces.
Ultimately, the distinction between a side table and an end table can be somewhat fluid, and the terms may be used interchangeably depending on individual preferences and interpretations.
Who Makes These Beautiful Wooden Side Tables?
As you can see, there are many styles of wooden side tables and end tables, and varying degrees of skill are required to create them. To give you an idea, watch this video by John Malecki, in which three makers create three end tables with varying difficulty.
Of course, a highly skilled woodworker can create simple or minimalist furniture, and there’s nothing wrong with that. Here are a few outstanding makers from my list, but there are many more linked to from the Pinterest board.
Thomas William Furniture – From console tables to wood end side tables, all the designs from Thomas William Furniture are breathtaking.
The focus is on Shaker-style furniture, using hand-cut mortise and tenon and incorporating Shaker elements with a modern twist. Prices range upwards of $1000, and the maker has received many press mentions for his work.
Seth Mondragon – The unique walnut side table on this list was hand-made by Seth, who also creates custom projects for homes and has a YouTube channel where he shares his creative process. He seems to have an endless supply of walnut, which makes me jealous.
Mountain Mule Hardwoods – There is nothing too flashy or complicated about the designs, but they are well made and look sturdy.
Etsy is another great place to look for makers. The wooden end tables and side tables I feature here are from several sellers, but here are the outstanding ones:
- TY Fine Furniture by Tarik Youseff
- Habitables by Manuel Barerra, based in Spain
I hope you enjoyed reading this post! Please feel free to share it if you can 🙂
