Decorating Accent Tables: How to Decorate an Accent Table
Chic and easy tips for styling your accent table.
Adding an accent table can be an easy way to maximize the style and practicality of a small space. These decorative tables are a great spot to add a chic table lamp, show off unique decor, and stash essentials. Whether you're trying to find the perfect way to top a console table, end table, or nightstand, our guide will help you learn how to decorate an accent table. Here are six simple tips for decorating accent tables with ease.
1. Choose the Right Accent Table
While bookcases and coffee tables have a specific function, accent tables often play a more decorative role in designing your home. But that doesn't mean they can't also have a practical purpose. End tables bookend your sofa, console tables add a narrow display to compact spaces, and nightstands keep all of your bedtime essentials close by. Plus, each of these accent tables come in a variety of designs to perfectly complement your style.
Tip!
Find the right fit by reading our guides: End Table Height: How Tall Should Your Side Table Be? and Nightstand Dimensions: How to Choose the Right Nightstand Size for Your Bedroom.
2. Play With Functional Decor
Decorating accent tables is all about finding the right balance between form and function. Boost the functionality of your accent table by adding practical pieces of decor. For accent tables near the front door, look for double-duty elements like an oversized bowl to catch your keys or a slim box to stash mail. Add a wall mirror above the accent table for any last-minute checks before you head out of the house.
Accent tables are the ideal spot for a table lamp. From the bedside to the hallway, these table lamps provide the right amount of illumination for both ambience and nighttime navigation. Opt for a table lamp with a unique base or statement-making shade to really make the most of the tabletop display. In the photo above, we love the mod feel of a globe-shaped shade perched on the angled base.
Arrange the tabletop decor with height in mind. Start with a framed piece of art leaned on top or hung above the accent table, and incorporate other vertical pieces like table lamps or table vases. Like we mentioned before, balance is key when it comes to decorating accent tables. Try to place items of similar heights on each side of the accent table for equal visual weight (like in the image above).
Accent tables should add decorative appeal, not clutter. To help corral pieces of decor, candles, and other essentials and keep them in one designated space, add a tray on top of your accent table. Choose a tray with deep sides to serve as a catch-all for small everyday items. Or opt for a shallow tray to cluster your decor, arranging pieces with different heights and materials to create a dynamic display.
When in doubt, add a bit of bright greenery. A leafy houseplant, a bouquet of fresh florals, or a planter of succulents brings a natural touch that softens any accent table. Make sure to slip your plant into a chic planter that plays well with the other pieces of decor.
Tip!
If you don't have much of a green thumb, go for a faux plant to add fresh green color without the maintenance.
