Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Side Tables

22 Apr.,2024

 

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Lighting design is a crucial element to get right in any home.

Thankfully, some general design principles help prevent any significant mistakes, and lamps for end tables are no exception.

One common question we get is: how tall a lamp for an and table should be? The combined height of the end table and its lamp should be equal to the height of floor lamps in the same room. Current design trends have floor lamps at 58 to 64 inches in height.

The proportion of end table to lamp height is more flexible based on your specific design needs.

These tips should help you get started with lamp and end table design. In addition, we’ve specifically added some mistakes to avoid that keep within current design standards.

 

Check out KARE'S Design full collection of lamps here

What is the Standard Table Lamp Height?

The standard table lamp height should match that of a floor lamp when put on the table. The average floor lamp reaches 58 to 64 inches. Therefore, the table lamp and end table should add together to that height.

Historically, different combinations of table and lamp height were popular.

Today, the end table tends to be around 27-30 inches and the lamp 30-36 inches, giving a slight nod to the lamp height over the table height.

Although different levels can add dimension to a room, which light sources, a height difference can be very distracting.

There should be precisely three different heights for light sources in a room:

  • Ceiling
  • Wall lights
  • Floor and table lamps.

- How Tall Should a Lamp Be on an End Table

We’ve already mentioned that the average table lamp is 30-36 inches tall.

However, you can vary up the height of the light in proportion to the end table to about one and a half times the height of the end table. That is, an end table of about 23 inches with a lamp of about 34 inches.

Remember, the main objective remains to keep the table lamp height at the same level as any floor lamps in the room. This is because our eyes are easily distracted by lights at different levels, whereas surfaces, storage, and seating at different levels can please the eye.

Check out KARE'S Design full collection of lamps here

3 Mistakes to Avoid When Sizing an End Table Lamp

1. Buying the wrong size of lamp

End table lamps should be in proportion to other furniture in the room.

Beyond just the end table to lamp size proportion, the overall height of floor and table lamps in a room should be in line with the room’s scale.

One good rule of thumb is that the lampshade should be within your eye line when seated on the bed or couch it is beside.

2. Watch for the shade size when sizing

Another common mistake is not accounting for a tall or wide lampshade but instead only measuring to the bulb’s height.

The shape plays a prominent role in deciding the overall size of the lamp. It should be accounted for in both width and height when looking at the overall fit of a room.

3. Match the size of the end table to the size of the lamp

There’s no exact match, but the lamp should take up an adequate amount of room on the end table without overpowering it. One simple rule is that no part of the lamp, including its shade, should overhang any edge of the table.

On the other hand, a too-small lamp won’t reach the appropriate height, so make sure the overall height matches the floor lamps in the room.

 

Check out KARE'S Design full collection of lamps here

Should End Tables Be the Same Height as the Couch?

The height of the end table should be within two inches of the height of the arms of the couch. It is better overall to err on the side of slightly shorter than the couch’s arms, so between two inches shorter and the arm height is an excellent area to aim for.

The coffee table should be lower than that to add levels and dimension to the room.

These rules don’t always apply, and it can matter how large the couch is and the size of the end table lamp you are using.

What Do You Put Under Lamps on End Tables? 4 Ideas

Today, there are a few standard decor options for end tables, depending on which room they are found in:

- Books

Always popular is a stack of books, which makes for both a nice decoration and allows the end table to serve a useful function.

- Plants

Plants are a popular end table item today. Just make sure the plant is proportional to the table and doesn’t get in the way of the lampshade. Plants also need light and care given to them.

- Pictures

Pictures are also a great piece of decor for end tables. They allow you to show some of your personality while adding color and dimension to a room.

- Vases

Finally, decorative bottles, vases, figures, and paperweights can also make a great addition to any end table. Just be sure to keep the overall clutter to a minimum by making any design choices feel both personal and purposeful.

 

 

Check out NATUZZI's full collection of lamps here

Summary

Lamps for end tables have some standard rules that will suit most peoples’ design needs.

The combined height of the end table and lamp should equal the height of a floor lamp, which is 58 to 64 inches on average.

There is room to maneuver when it comes to the specific height of the table vs. the lamp, but modern design trends indicate that between equal sizes and the lamp being 1.5 times the size of the end table is standard.

With the information in this guide, you’ll find it easier to make the right choice the next time you want to place a lamp in your amazing new end table. For this reason, be sure to check back here if you have any questions regarding end tables, lamps and how to place them together.

With an endless supply of information and reviews about furniture available online today, you may think consulting a salesperson before making a purchase is a waste of time. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Taking the time to share your design vision, communicate your space’s needs, and ask specific questions about the furnishings you’re interested in, can make a tremendous difference in achieving the look you have in mind. To get the most out of your furniture shopping experience, be sure to ask the salesperson at your favorite furniture store these important questions.

What Does the Price Include?

When you step foot in the furniture store, you’re sure to see price tags all around. What does the price of that leather sectional really include though? Rather than assuming you know, it’s a good idea to ask the salesperson:

  • What’s the price difference between sizes and styles of the same piece?
  • Does the price include shipping? What about assembly?
  • Does the price include tax?
  • Do accessories come with it, such as throw pillows?
  • Is there a warranty? If so, how long does it last and what does it cover?
  • Is the price negotiable or is there a sale soon?
  • What payment options are available?
  • Does the store price match if a competitor has a better offer on the same piece?

Furniture should be an investment in the comfort and beauty of your home. With this in mind, don’t be afraid to ask questions about what the price of the piece you’re interested in includes to make sure that you get the most out of your money.

Is the Piece Customizable?

Furniture has come a long way in the last twenty years. More furniture brands than ever are offering customizable features on everything from recliners and living room sets to bunk beds and breakfast tables. Imagine that you find the perfect seating arrangement for your family room on the showroom floor only to learn that it can be customized to your unique color and style preferences. You may be surprised by just how many options there are for a simple sofa or dining room set, such as upholstery options, wood finishes, and mechanical features. Even if you are in love with a particular piece of furniture, be sure to ask if customizable features are available. You never know what options would make your purchase even better!

How was it Made?

You don’t have to be a furniture expert to figure out if the items you want to purchase are well-made or not. This is especially true for pieces that you’ll use every day, and that comfort and durability are top priorities, such as a sofa or bed. Ask the salesperson what the frame and filling are made from, as well as who manufactured them and where. It’s better to devote a little more time to get a piece that will last for years rather than to hastily purchase an inexpensive piece that you may replace down the road.

 

How Long Should It Last?

Along with how the furniture was made, it’s important to ask the salesperson how long you can expect it to last. No one wants to fork over a healthy chunk of change on a chair they hoped would last a decade, only to see it wearing down after a year or two. Some follow-up questions may include:

  • How long will the piece look like new?
  • Has the fabric been treated to prevent stains?
  • Has the fabric been tested for durability?
  • Does the factory or store offer a guarantee on the furniture? How long does it last?

What Happens if Things Go Wrong?

Even when you do your research and find furniture that you love in the store, sometimes things will still go wrong. If you aren’t satisfied with your purchase or if the furniture breaks unexpectedly, it’s important to know what to do next. Before you finalize your purchase, ask the salesperson:

  • What steps should you take to get your money back or a replacement on a broken piece?
  • Should you contact the furniture store or the manufacturer directly?
  • Will the furniture store send you a new item or try to repair the damaged one?
  • If you must send the piece back, who will pay for the shipping?

How Should I Care for the Furniture?

Oftentimes, people get so excited to bring new furniture home that they forget to consider important factors, such as how to best care for the pieces they purchase. If you’ve never owned a full-grain leather sofa or solid oak coffee table, you may not know how to clean or maintain it. Be sure to ask if there are special products or techniques you should be aware of to keep your furniture looking like new for years to come.

Why Should I Buy From You?

Consumers have more options than ever to make furnishing their homes convenient and affordable. With this in mind, ask the salesperson at your local furniture store what sets them apart from their competitors. They should go above and beyond to impress you with exceptional customer service, a large selection of merchandise, convenient warranties and return policies, and competitive prices. Don’t be shy about having high expectations for your furniture salesperson. It’s their job to earn your business, not the other way around.

Finding furniture that will look great and withstand wear and tear in the future doesn’t have to be stressful. Consulting the professionals at Sam Levitz Furniture can make your furniture shopping experience simple and enjoyable from beginning to end. Our knowledgeable design team is eager to answer all of your questions and help you get the most bang-for-your-buck when decorating any room in your home. Stop by our showroom or contact us today.

Key Questions to Ask When Ordering Side Tables

7 Questions to Ask When Furniture Shopping

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