43 Types of Tables for Your Home (Buying Guide)

Epic guide to tables. We list and explain every type of table for your home including living room tables, dining room tables and more.
- Advertisement -

Living room and dining room tables

This is the ultimate guide to finding the perfect new table for your home.

If you’re shopping for your home and your eyes are glazing over at the sheer volume of tables available in both online and brick and mortar furniture stores, you’re not alone.

Shopping to decorate your home can be stressful to begin with (you loved it in the store, but now it looks–different–in your living room or dining room), and struggling to understand the purpose and point of so many different table options can be the nail in the coffin.

So, let’s get the most important things out of the way first: first, it’s a mistake to assume that you need any table just because other people have one.

Likewise, it’s a mistake to assume that a table should be purely decorative. For example, your mother-in-law might have a lovely home filled with tchotchkes you keep bumping into, but just because she insists your couch won’t be right without an end table doesn’t mean that’s the gospel truth.

In fact, the best interior design doesn’t just look nice; it makes the time you spend in your home nicer, as well.

It’s easy to get confused about tables, however; apart from the kitchen’s table obvious purpose, tables names like “console table” and “side table” are often just sort of thrown around willy nilly without much thought to function or style. We buy something Ikea calls an “accent table” because we think we need one and we dutifully move it from house to house.

Take heart! Your table confusion is at an end! There actually is a rhyme and reason to tables (even the strictly decorative ones), and we’re breaking it down for you in today’s comprehensive guide, helping you match form and function effortlessly.

While there are many types of tables, most tables have the same parts.

A. Types of Tables

We’ve already talked about how many different kinds of tables there are and what we want to stress here is that the name of the table doesn’t matter–what’s important is that the table suits you and your purposes. That said, you do have to shop, and understanding table nomenclature will be helpful. Let’s break things down:

Living Room Tables

“Occasional” tables are small utility tables that combine beauty and function. There are nine main types:

1. Coffee Table


Jamiya coffee table.Source: Wayfair

2. Accent Table

Accent table is a loose term used to cover a variety of table types, including end tables, coffee tables, and console tables. Don’t be afraid to get creative! A trunk, an antique chair, or a shelf can all double as accent tables.  Most are small accent tables.

Wooden accent table.

Source: World Market

3. Console Table

Console tables are often used interchangeably with end tables (also known as sofa tables) because they are long, thin, and narrow, and fit nicely behind a sofa or in an entry way. If you need some extra dimension or just a place to toss your keys, a console table near the front door makes itself very useful.

Mid-century TV console table.Source: Pier 1

4. Side Table

As its name so aptly implies, a side table fits beside a sofa and provides a great place for a lamp or drink.

Broadridge end table.Source: Wayfair

5. C-table

A c-table gets its name from its unique c-shape, which allows it to swivel around over a bed, chair, or couch. You can use it for a drink or to hold your book or laptop.

C-shape side table.

Source: World Market

6. Drink Table

Drink tables are tiny and have just enough room for (you guessed it) a drink! They can be tall but are usually on the shorter side.

Square drink table.

Source: World Market

7. End Table

As previously mentioned, an end table is practically the same thing as an accent table.

Marble end side table.Source: Overstock

8. Bunching Table (a.k.a. stacking or nesting tables)

A bunching table can also be a type of coffee table or accent table; it merely refers to two or more tables that fit together or can be spread out. It’s a great option for a space-challenged home.

Nash nesting table.Source: Wayfair

9. Drum Table

The drum table was created in the 1700s and is a heavy, circular table. Sometimes it’s tall enough to pull up a chair to, and sometimes it has bookshelves or drawers and a tooled leather top. Today, the term sometimes simply refers to a substantial round table such as a stone coffee table.

Kadine drum end table.

Source: Wayfair

10. Foyer Tables

Another occasional table is what we call a foyer table which is a table for the foyer.  Not all foyers have such a table, but they are a nice convenience.  Most butt up to a wall, but you can place round or square tables in the center of large foyers.

Here’s an example:
Small foyer table set against the wall

11. Ottoman Tables

A terrific multi-purpose table option is an ottoman that doubles as a table. You can buy some large ottomans with a flat top designed to also serve as a table. I guess this furniture concept developed as a result of people always putting their feet up on coffee tables.

Here’s an example.

Ottoman coffee table.

ii. Tables for Meals

There are four main tables used for meals:

12. Dining Table

Dining tables typically sit upwards of six and are usually grand affairs. They can have extra leaves to add additional seating and are usually found strictly in dining rooms and are used irregularly.

Genuine marble top 42-inch brown cherry counter height dining table.

Source: Overstock

13. Kitchen Table


Round laminated kitchen table.

Source: Wayfair

14. Bedside Table (a.k.a. Nightstand)

Most bedrooms have at least one table, usually two in the form of a nightstand or bedside table flanking the bed.  These almost necessary pieces of furniture make it helpful for placing items within arms-reach from the bed… items one may put down before sleeping or requiring upon waking such as glasses, a book, electronic devices and of course the dreaded alarm clock.

These tables can be actual tables, chests, small shelves or cabinets.

Most are small bedside tables, although larger bedrooms can accommodate large units.

Fortunately these are not expensive, although like all things for the home there are always luxury options.

Here’s an example.

Small wood bedside table with drawers and a shelf.

Source: Amazon

15. Pub Table

Pub tables are tall and come with stools. They usually seat two to four people.

3 piece pub table set.

Source: Wayfair

16. Patio Table

Patio tables are designed to handle the elements on a deck, porch, or other outdoor space (though some must be wintered indoors if you live in a harsh climate). Today’s patio furniture isn’t limited to ugly white plastic, however, and often looks nice enough for indoor use!

See 15 Different Types of Picnic Tables for more patio tables

Round wooden patio table.Source: Lowes

iii. Work Tables

There are three main types of tables that are used specifically for work.

17. Work Table

Work tables are highly utilitarian (though not necessarily unattractive) and are usually built with a specific job in mind: woodworking, art, gardening, or other. They come in a very wide variety of sizes and finishes, depending on whether you decide to use them standing up, sitting down, inside, or outside.

Gladiator hardwood work table.

Source: Lowes

18. Conference Table

Similar to a dining table, a conference table is very large and often very grand. Unlike a dining table, a conference table often has plugs and ports for laptops and phones.

Elegant looking small redwood colored conference table.Source: Overstock

19. Computer Table

A computer table is designed specifically for use with a computer. Typically it has holes in the back for cords to travel and a keyboard drawer. Sometimes it also has a shelf designed to hold a printer.

L-shape corner desk computer table.

Source: Wayfair

20. Game Tables

There are four main types of game tables specifically used for fun and games.

a. Pool Table

Standard pool table with a laminated bamboo frame.Source: Hayneedle

b. Ping Pong Table

If you’re into sports but you’re not the typical outdoor person, then the ping pong or table tennis game will definitely satisfy your crave for an indoor activity. A ping pong table is divided into two parts with a net. It usually has a dark, matte finish for the ball to be able to bounce effectively.
Source: Hayneedle

c. Foosball Table

Foosball is a football-inspired, table-top game usually seen on arcades and play rooms.  Foosball tables come in different styles, some have a luxury finish while other have the classic and standard form. The balls can be made out of wood, plastic metal or even marble, depending on your preference.
Wooden foosball table perfect for play rooms.Source: Hayneedle

d. Card Table

Card game is one of the best and most entertaining indoor family activities. Card tables differ from its size, style and the main material used. Some are made of wood while others are made of metal. Some have standard features while others can be slided and folded.
Oval card game table that can be folded at the center.Source: Hayneedle

B. Table Shapes

Once you’ve thought through some Rounded tables are great for small spaces, where you need to fit as many people as possible around for a meal or discussion, or you need to get a drink table into a tight space next to the couch.

They also make said discussions much more equitable, and possible thanks to there being no clear head of the table. Legend has it that King Arthur created his famous round table when his knights argued about who was most important and deserved the “highest” seating.

Plus, since each member of the table can make direct eye contact with every other member without leaning out of his or her seat, it’s much easier to have dynamic, exciting conversations, even with a large group of people. See how we’ve talked you into a roundish table whether you’re in a small space or a large space? We love round tables!


World Market's oval wood Lira 7 piece folding dining set.

Source: World Market

25. Square or Rectangle


Overstock's white square table.

Source: Overstock

26. Polygon


Artisan Barnwood octagon dining table.Source: Wayfair

C. Most Popular Styles Today

We don’t have time here for an exhaustive lecture on the history of furniture, but we can give you a brief overview, so when your friends compliment you on how “mid-century modern” your living room looks now, you can reply intelligently.

27. Industrial


Industrial tables, especially, can be real works of art, with some seemingly composed of extant factory machines (even if they’re just replicas).

You don’t have to stick to replicas, either: “antiquing” usually implies dainty things your grandmother would love, but today it includes finding beautiful industrial pieces that have weathered time and have the patina to prove it.

Hardwood industrial table.

Source: World Market

28. Farmhouse

HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines undoubtedly put farmhouse style on the map thanks to JoJo’s sophisticated take (and noticeable lack of cute roosters in the decor) and ubiquitous shiplap. Today, the style is characterized by heavy, weathered wood and a return to craftsman details, such as over-the-door transoms and intricate molding. You’ll usually find big, white farmhouse sinks and aesthetic nods to the French and Italian countryside’s in lavender, greenery, and sometimes even stucco.

Farmhouse tables are often centerpieces for this decor as well as stunning pieces of work, and antique trunks and dressers often double as accent tables.

Chic farmhouse-style table.

Source: Pier 1

29. Shabby Chic


Shabby chic tables are often refinished in some shade of white, ecru, or pastel, and are usually combined with flea market finds to give it some old world charm, and it’s not uncommon to find shabby chic coffee tables made out of recycled pallets.

Shabby chic wooden table.

Source: Overstock

30. Mid-Century Modern


Outside of the classic tulip table (also called the Saarinen table), mid-century modern tables are characterized by their low profiles and honey-stained natural wood, often engineered plywood. You can find pieces that are uber modern and pieces that are more gently modern and casual.

Corning rectangular mid-century modern coffee table.Source: Wayfair

31. Scandinavian

This one is similar to mid-century modern in that it utilizes clean lines and veers toward minimalism, however, true Scandinavian style makes use of white and light colors and rarely uses carpet or especially plush textiles, favoring clean, light-colored wood floors in shades of white or grey. White walls are ubiquitous, though some Scandinavian designers will utilize very modern, geometric color patterns in bedding, curtains, or wall art.

What sets Scandinavian furniture apart is how useable it is. Usually slim yet elegant, tables are often made from engineered wood or metal and stained or paint in very light colors. Ikea was at least partially responsible for bringing the style to the United States and sells its furniture in ready-to-assemble boxes.

Simple living playmate walnut rubberwood dining table.

Source: Overstock

D. Table Assembly Options

Now that you’ve got a great idea of your future table in mind, you need to find it. You have a few options:

32. Antique

We mentioned earlier that antiquing has come a long way in the last decade or two, and it bears repeating. You can find some really stunning one-of-a-kind pieces in antique furniture stores and warehouses if you know where to look!


Speaking of cost, antiques can, of course, be quite expensive. One way to save money is by looking for smaller pieces. You might choose to purchase a modern kitchen table, for example, and purchase several fairly inexpensive side tables to add age and dimension to your decor without breaking the bank.

This video has some great tips for finding antique furniture:

33. Custom


The internet is also a great tool, especially if the potential craftsman has a website that shares reviews. Make sure however you’re working with can provide very clear plans before you move forward. You also want very clear expectations about when the project will be completed (and how much it will cost) in writing.

34. Big Box Self-Assembled

When our grandparents wanted new furniture, they visited the local furniture shop and haggled with a salesperson, or they hired somebody to make a piece. Furniture shopping looks dramatically different today!

Thanks to Ikea, huge retailers like Target, Walmart, Overstock, and Wayfair now offer self-assembled furniture. Cost-wise, it’s at the other end of the spectrum from custom furniture or antique, and certainly less unique (how many people have that particular end table by their couch?) however it’s extremely affordable and a much smaller commitment, which means you don’t have to wait to decorate your interior until you’ve moved into a “forever home.”

35. Furniture Store


36. DIY or Restoration

Search Pinterest for DIY table instructions, and you’ll find everything ranging from “I need to be a master craftsman to pull this off” to “this will literally take a few minutes.” Want to make a minimalist coffee table by screwing metal pin legs onto a slab of wood? There’s a plan for that. Want to make a plant stand from poured concrete and painted dowel legs? Pinterest has you covered. Want to construct an industrial-style kitchen table from metal pipe? Yep!

You don’t have to start from scratch: Pinterest is also full of tutorials helping people refinish old furniture. Occasional tables are great places to start practicing.

DIY has obvious limitations: tutorials often make things seem way simpler than they really are and you inevitably spend more than you planned on. However, the opportunity to make some truly unique with your own two hands is pretty appealing!

37. Pre-loved

Another great option for finding tables for your home is to shop Craigslist, Offer Up, or Facebook Marketplace. Often, you can get a great deal on furniture that people are unloading because of an upcoming move or other life change. Sometimes the furniture needs to be restored, but sometimes it’s great as is.

When you start shopping, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options and possibilities, which is why we recommend knowing exactly what you want first, before you even start your shopping.

And of course, always be safe. Keep an eye out for scams and make sure you’re not meeting anybody with lots of cash on you in a dark, unlit parking lot.

E. Table Materials

Once you start shopping for your console, conference, or dining table, you’ll notice immediately how many different options there are for materials. We’re sharing the most common below to help you get a feel for what will work best for you.

38. Wood Veneer

Hands down the most popular choice for tables today, wood veneer is an extremely thin panel of wood (usually less than 3mm thick) that has been glued onto core panels (usually another, cheaper wood or particle board). When done well with high quality veneer, you can’t even tell.

Veneer is nothing new. Ancient Egyptians even used rare and beautiful wood veneers over cheaper materials to create furniture and sarcophagi.

Wood veneer is sometimes confused with laminate, but it’s completely different; since it is actual wood, it can be sanded down and re-stained (though this should be done very carefully). It’s typically lighter than solid wood furniture and more affordable, making it a great choice for most people looking for a larger table (such as a kitchen, dining, or conference table).

Wood veneer round dining table.Source: Wayfair

39. Laminate


Sitting water is laminate’s nemesis. While sprays of water or liquid can be wiped down, if water sits it can soak through and cause the MDF or particle board underneath to expand. It also can’t usually be repainted or refinished, so if you’re looking for a table that you will want to refinish at some point, don’t choose a laminate table!

Furniture of America Cassie coffee table in glossy white finish with serving tray.Source: Overstock

40. Marble



This video shows a brilliant tip for lifting wine glass stains off marble:

Marble counter height dining table.Source: Wayfair

41. Solid Wood

Solid wood is a fantastic choice if you want a table that’s durable and will stand the test of time. Usually not light, solid wood furniture can be sanded and re-stained or repainted, which adds long term value to the table you’re buying (especially if you’re someone who likes to mix things up a lot!).


Care for solid wood furniture is generally very simple: clean up spills immediately and use an approved cleaner. You may choose to wax or seal your wood furniture periodically.

Light grey wood traditional rectangular dining table.

Source: Overstock

42. Metal


Also, metal should be sealed or painted to prevent rust, especially if you live in a very humid client.

Rosetta metal console table.Source: Wayfair

43. Glass


Safavieh mid-century Marjoram round glass coffee table.Source: Overstock

Other Materials

You’re certainly not limited to wood veneer, laminate, solid wood, metal, marble, or glass; you can find tables made from acrylic, polymer, ceramic, granite, engineered wood, and so many others. This is what makes tables so fun and unique! The form is simple, so the materials used can be creative and dazzling.

Contempo acrylic console table.Source: Wayfair

F. Table Height

After the shape of the table, height is probably the most important decision you’ll make and we really can’t understate how much of a difference it will make in how functional your table will be. Too short, you’ll be frustrated and find yourself stooping. Too high, and you’ll also find your table unusable.

Table heights vary from tall to very, very low (think coffee tables). Tall or counter-top tables can be used with stools or are designed to be used while standing while shorter occasional tables should match the furniture they’re paired with.

For example, if you’re choosing an end table to sit next to your sofa, it should be at the height of your sofa’s arms, or slightly shorter. A coffee table should be the height of your sofa’s seat, but other decorative tables not near your sofa can be taller.

As a general rule of thumb, let the size of the room be your guide: taller, larger furniture should fill a taller, larger room while smaller furniture should fill a smaller room.

You should also let your own height be your guide. Just like a tall person needs a couch or easy chair he or she is comfortable on, a tall person might prefer taller furniture, while a shorter person might not like having to climb up onto a stool to sit at a counter-top kitchen table. Let your own needs and your own house be your guide.

G. Brief History of Tables

A table is essentially a flat surface that stands on some kind of support. It’s an incredibly useful piece of furniture, which explains why there are so many of them: there’s a table for everyone and everything.

Tables are also inherently tied to culture. If you visited, Japan, for example, and your Japanese host offered you a meal, you probably wouldn’t plop down on a chair and pull up to a dining table the way you might in the United States. Instead, you’d sit on a mat or pillow at a table roughly the height of a coffee table, called a chabudai.


H. Table Functions

1. Aesthetics

Yes, they’re decorative, but they’re decorative in a purposeful way: tables might help balance out a room or fill an empty corner, or they might help to elevate a piece of artwork, statue, or plant to add vertical dimension to a room. Tables can also be a work of art unto themselves.

2. Functional


3. Questions to Ask Yourself About Form

Ultimately, when you’re considering buying any piece of furniture (and especially a table) don’t go to a store and look for something that catches your eye. First, take note of your home space. What’s missing? What do you need from a decorative standpoint? Think about your aesthetic: do you prefer modern decor with stark materials and minimalist lines? Do you love traditional furniture that’s plush and paired with traditionally stained wood? Are you more boho chic, and want to mix a variety of design periods for a look that’s warm and homey?

4. Questions to Ask Yourself About Function

Now, think through how you use your room and existing furniture. Are your friends always awkwardly holding drinks when they stop by because there isn’t a place to put them in your living room? Would your hallway stand to use a place to toss your keys, so you stop losing them? Does your living room get dark in one corner and could it use a lamp at sofa-height?

One Response

  1. Anna Uyen April 19, 2019

Add Comment