Accent Tables - Other

Discover the Best Accent Tables in the UK: Stylish Side Tables to Elevate Your Home

Why Accent Tables Are the Unsung Heroes of Home Decor

Think of accent tables as the finishing brushstroke on a painting — they might be small, but they pull the whole room together. Whether you use them to hold your morning coffee, prop up a lamp, or display a favourite vase, an accent table offers both function and flair. In the UK, shoppers have a rich choice of designs, from minimalist Scandinavian pieces to bold industrial styles, meaning there’s an option to match every personality and space.

Spotlight: Nordic Nest — Curated Scandinavian Chic

What Nordic Nest Offers

Nordic Nest specialises in Nordic and contemporary furniture, and their accent tables are no exception. They mix clean lines, subtle textures, and quality materials to create pieces that feel modern yet timeless. Popular picks include low-profile tables and clever wall-mounted models that save floor space while making a visual statement.

Notable Pieces to Consider

If you like the Scandinavian aesthetic, look out for offerings such as the Woud Array Side Table in low and wall-mounted versions, which showcase geometric charm and practical surfaces. Another option is the A2 Beam Side Table in light grey with a white oiled oak stand — a balanced mix of soft tones and natural wood. For a softer palette, the Ferm Living Eve Side Table in cashmere adds a whisper of luxury, while the Bloomingville Ray Side Table — roughly 18 inches by 20 inches — offers a compact footprint with a sculptural silhouette.

Top UK Stores to Buy Accent Tables

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis is a go-to for reliable quality and a broad range of styles, from classic to contemporary. If you prefer seeing items in-store before you buy, John Lewis usually has well-styled room setups that make it easy to imagine an accent table in your own home.

Made.com

Made.com focuses on design-led pieces with direct-to-consumer pricing. They often collaborate with independent designers to create unique side tables that feel special without a shocking price tag. These are great if you want a statement piece that’s slightly different from the mainstream high-street look.

Wayfair UK and Habitat

Wayfair UK offers an enormous catalogue, which is perfect if you’re browsing different heights, finishes, and price bands. Habitat, meanwhile, leans toward urban modern design and offers many compact accent tables that suit smaller city apartments.

Styles That Work in Any Room

Scandi Minimalism

Scandinavian pieces often feature light woods, delicate legs, and unadorned surfaces. These tables play well with neutral palettes and create an airy, calming effect — ideal for living rooms that aim for understated elegance.

Industrial Edge

If you like a raw, utilitarian look, industrial accent tables with metal frames and reclaimed wood tops add character. They work brilliantly against brick walls, concrete floors, or paired with leather sofas for a loft-like atmosphere.

Glam & Metallics

For a touch of drama, choose tables with brass or chrome finishes, mirrored surfaces, or marble tops. A small metallic side table can act like jewellery for your room, catching light and adding sparkle without overwhelming the space.

How to Pick the Right Size and Height

Measure Like a Pro

Before shopping, measure the space where your accent table will live. A good rule of thumb is that a side table placed next to a sofa should be about the same height as the sofa’s arm or slightly lower—typically between 18 and 24 inches. Round tables under 20 inches across are perfect near an armchair or in a narrow hallway.

Balance and Proportion

Think in terms of proportion: a heavy, chunky table can dwarf delicate seating, while a very slim table can look lost next to a large sofa. Use visual anchors like rugs or lamps to create a deliberate vignette and avoid the "floating" furniture look.

Materials & Finishes: Match Your Lifestyle

Wood

Wood is warm, versatile, and ages gracefully. Oak and ash provide durability and a classic look, while painted or lacquered finishes can introduce colour and a modern sheen. If you want the Scandinavian vibe, choose light or white oiled oak surfaces for a natural, inviting tone.

Metal and Glass

Metal frames are sturdy and lend an industrial or modern feel. Glass tops keep visual weight light and are ideal for small rooms because they don’t block sightlines, but they do require more maintenance to avoid fingerprints and smudges.

Marble and Stone

Marble adds instant elegance, but it’s heavier and usually pricier. Consider faux-marble finishes if you want the look without the weight and cost. If you pick real stone, ensure the base is robust enough to support the top safely.

Practical Features Worth Paying For

Storage and Multi-Functionality

Some accent tables include drawers, lower shelves, or removable trays. These details can be lifesavers in a small flat where every inch counts. A table with a shelf under the top is great for magazines or remote controls, keeping surfaces tidy.

Portability and Weight

If you like to rearrange furniture frequently or host parties that require flexible seating, choose a lighter table or one with integrated handles. Conversely, heavy, solid pieces are less likely to topple, which can be important in family homes with children or pets.

Designing with Accent Tables: Practical Tips

Create a Layered Look

Mix heights and materials to build depth — a low coffee table paired with a taller side table and a slim lamp produces a curated, magazine-ready setup. Think of each piece as a player in an ensemble: together they carry the tune.

Use Accent Tables to Break Up Space

Open-plan living spaces can benefit from accent tables that delineate zones. A console-style side table behind a sofa can act as a room divider without blocking light, while a small table beside a chair can establish a cosy reading nook.

Budgeting: Where to Spend and Where to Save

Invest in Timeless Pieces

Spend more on a well-made base or a table with an enduring silhouette you won’t tire of quickly. Quality joinery and solid materials often pay off over time, especially if you plan to keep the piece for years.

Save on Trendy Items

Trend-led finishes or novelty shapes are fun but can date quickly. Look for budget-friendly options at high-street retailers like Dunelm or IKEA if you want to experiment without commitment. You can always swap them out later without regret.

Where to Find Deals and Unique Finds

High Street vs. Boutique

High-street chains often provide reliable, affordable basics, while boutique stores and designer outlets showcase limited runs and distinctive designs. Keep an eye on seasonal sales — both big chains and smaller retailers tend to discount accent tables at the end of a season.

Second-Hand and Vintage Options

Thrift shops, online marketplaces, and antique fairs are treasure troves if you love character and patina. A little sanding and a new finish can turn a second-hand find into a focal piece that no one else has.

Styling Examples: Flat, Cottage, and Urban Living

Small City Flat

In compact urban apartments, go for wall-mounted tables or nesting tables you can tuck away when guests arrive. A single sculptural side table 18 inches wide with a slim profile can make the space feel curated rather than cluttered.

Cottage and Country Homes

Rustic or turned-leg accent tables work beautifully in country homes. Choose warm woods and textured finishes to complement soft textiles and layered rugs, which together create a welcoming cottage ambience.

Contemporary Family Living

Durability matters in family homes. Opt for scratch-resistant tops, rounded corners for safety, and surfaces that are easy to wipe clean. A lower shelf is great for toys and books, keeping common areas tidy without fuss.

Mixing Brands for a Cohesive Look

Combining Nordic Nest with Other UK Retailers

Don’t feel obliged to match everything from a single brand. A Nordic Nest side table pairs well with sofas or lighting from John Lewis, a rug from Habitat, and storage solutions from IKEA. The trick is to repeat materials or colours in at least two places so the room feels intentionally designed rather than pieced together.

Layering Textures and Colours

Balance is key. If your accent table is bold — like a metallic finish — calm it with soft textiles and natural woods elsewhere. Conversely, a neutral table benefits from bolder accessories, such as patterned ceramic lamps or colourful books.

Conclusion: Accent tables are small but mighty. They solve practical needs, inject personality, and help define a room. Whether you opt for a pared-back Nordic Nest piece, a designer statement from Made.com, a practical model from John Lewis, or a budget-friendly option from IKEA, the right side table is out there. Measure, consider material, think about function, and don’t be afraid to mix and match across UK retailers to achieve a look that’s uniquely yours.