Furniture Glossary: Tables

Whether in the bedroom, living room or its favorite place: the dining room, tables are one of the most versatile pieces of furniture.

Keep in mind: Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money from these affiliate links.

June 22, 2015

By: Kerstin Czarra

Related To:

Shop This Look

Photo By: Bethany Nauert

Coffee Table

This piece, also called a cocktail table is a long low table with four legs that is placed in front of a sofa. It is used to hold glasses, books, magazines or sometimes feet. There are almost as many varieties of coffee table shapes and sizes as there are feet. Coffee tables can also have a cabinet under the top for storage.

From: Bryan Wark Designs, Inc.

Console Table

Longer and higher than a typical variety, these tables are generally used against a wall or behind a sofa. They feature a longer flat surface and narrower legs.

Dining Table

Like its name suggests, this furniture piece is used primarily for eating. It is comprised of a long, wide flat surface supported by four legs. The height (waist level) is ideal for eating or reading and writing. Most dining tables do not have drawers but certain styles may have shallow ones at the shorter ends. Some dining tables have removable "leaves" that can be added to the table so that more people can sit around the space. Dining tables can be made of wood, glass, plastic, metal, or really any sold material. Image courtesy of Troy Beasley.

End/Side Table

Used interchangeably, an end of side table is a small, low table typically placed on either (or both) ends of a sofa. They may hold lamps for reading or serve as a place to set drinks down on coasters. Image courtesy of RMSer nydesignguy.

Entry Table

Also referred to as an entryway table, it is typically found just inside of a home's main doorway or foyer. Like any table, it has a flat surface supported by four legs is made of wood. It is typically used as a repository for house keys, mail or a purse. They can be of simple or ornate design and they are waist high. Image courtesy of Stanley Furniture.

Furniture Glossary: Tables

Related To:

Shop This Look

Coffee Table

Console Table

Dining Table

End/Side Table

Entry Table

More from:

Do's & Don'ts of Design

28 Thoughtful + Creative Thanksgiving Place Cards 28 Photos

How to Build an End Table With a Built-in Pet Bed

Furniture Glossary

Furniture Glossary: Chairs 22 Photos

Bathroom Vanity Tables and Furniture

DIY Farmhouse Table

Related Pages