When decorating a living room, it’s easy to focus on big-ticket items like sofas, coffee tables, and entertainment centers. But one of the most underrated heroes of a well-designed space is the humble end table. These small yet functional pieces not only hold your lamps, drinks, and remotes, but also add balance and polish to your seating area.
The Ideal End Table Height
The general rule of thumb for end table height is this:
An end table should be approximately the same height as the arm of the sofa or chair it’s placed next to.
That usually falls between 22 to 30 inches (56 to 76 cm), but the key is to match the arm height as closely as possible. This helps with both aesthetics and usability.
Why Height Matters
- Comfort & Functionality: If your end table is too low, reaching down for a drink or the remote becomes uncomfortable. Too high, and it can feel awkward or overpower the furniture.
- Visual Harmony: A table that aligns with your sofa arm looks more cohesive and deliberate in your design.
- Lamp Placement: For reading or ambiance, a lamp on an end table should be at eye level when seated. The right table height ensures the lamp base and shade are properly positioned.
What If the Arm Height Is Unusual?
If your sofa has unusually high or low arms, aim to keep the end table within 1 to 2 inches of the arm height. A slight variation is fine and often unnoticeable.
- Low-arm sofas (like mid-century modern styles): Look for tables around 20–24 inches tall.
- High-arm traditional sofas: Tables between 26–30 inches are more appropriate.
Can End Tables Be Shorter Than the Arm?
Yes, but only slightly. A table that’s no more than 2 inches shorter than the sofa arm can still function well. However, avoid going taller than the arm height by more than 2 inches, as it can look disproportionate and be uncomfortable to use.
Quick Measuring Tip
To find the perfect end table height:
- Measure from the floor to the top of your sofa’s arm.
- Choose an end table that matches this height or is within a 1-2 inch difference.
Bonus Tip: Consider the Table’s Purpose
- For lighting: Ensure the combined height of the table and lamp keeps the bulb just below eye level.
- For drinks or remotes: The closer the table top is to the arm height, the easier it is to use.