Open Up a World of Possibilities with Tables Between Chairs

Finding creative ways to utilize the often overlooked space between two chairs can open up new decorating possibilities. The right small table placed in this tight spot allows you to display treasured items with flair, stash necessities within arm's reach, or simply bridge the gap with stylish flair.

Read on as we explore the many functional and aesthetic virtues of tables perfectly sized for those narrow voids.

Spice Up Tight Spaces

Ottoman Storage

Ottomans with storage compartments or lift-tops make excellent tables for between chairs. These upholstered furnishing pull double duty - serving as a surface for books, snacks and remotes while also discretely stowing items inside.

Ottomans come in varied shapes, sizes, and fabrics to coordinate with your chairs. Measure carefully before purchasing to ensure an ideal fit. If space is very limited, compact round ottomans work nicely. For larger areas, square or rectangular ottomans can be positioned to best bridge the gap.

Tiered Side Tables

Tiered side tables offer multiple stacked surfaces perfect for filling awkward narrow spaces. With a tiered table, you can place coffee mugs and coaster on the top tier, snacks and electronics on the middle tier, and magazines or decorative items below.

Look for petite tiered tables around 20-22 inches tall. Opt for three tiers if space permits or just two tiers for very tight squeezes. Glass, wood, or metal surfaces all work well. Position the tiers creatively to make the most of the space.

Bookshelves & Credenzas

Bookcases and credenzas intended for small spaces make excellent tables for between chairs. Fill the shelves withfavorite reads or decorative objects to fashion a dedicated display nook that puts forgotten space to use.

Measure between your chairs to find a cabinet, shelf unit or bookcase that fits neatly within the gap. Style and finishes are abundant, but slimmer depth units around 12 inches deep prevent encroaching too far into walkways. Glass door cabinets keep contents dust-free but open shelves allow for flexible styling.

Enhance Decor & Function

Wall-Mounted Desks & Shelves

Wall mounted fold-down desks or floating shelves offer space-saving surfaces perfect for tucking between chairs. Mounted furnishings add function and visual interest without demanding precious floor space.

Desks mounted on pivots give you a usable work station when needed that tucks discreetly out of sight when not in use. Wall shelves make great display areas for framed photos, meaningful souvenirs or decorative objects. Just be sure to securely install mounts into wall studs to support weight.

Floor Lamps

The space between chairs presents the ideal placement for floor lamps that illuminate while taking up minimal floor space. Table or torchiere lamps set beside a chair can also amplify lighting if wall outlets permit.

Opt for adjustable lamps that allow you to direct light precisely where needed. Dimmer switches also help set the desired ambiance. Position shades to avoid glare and maximize usable surface area beneath the fixture.

Art & Accessories

Don't overlook hanging artwork or decorative accents as affordable ways to stylize awkward narrow spaces. Wall sculptures, tapestries, mirrors add artistic flair and reflect surrounding light to brighten shadows.

Floating shelves mounted creatively on the wall behind a table offer display space for vases, framed photos and meaningful mementos. Cohesive colors and coordinated shapes intersperse throughout the vignette tie the look together.

Choose Your Table Style

When selecting a table shape and size for between chairs, first measure the floor space from inner chair leg to inner chair leg. Tables that span this distance, while leaving ample leg room and walkways allow you to bridge the space both functionally and decoratively.

Rectangular tables, consoles and credenzas allow versatile surface space and storage options. Round or oval cocktail tables save space with smaller footprints. Consider table height in relation to your chairs - around 16 to 24 inches tall typically works well.

Table materials run the aesthetic gamut. Wood finishes offer warmth. Glass tops convey openness. Metals like brass or silver bring contemporary shine. Granite, marble and stone look luxe. Prioritize stability with heavier bases if you plan to display heavier accent pieces.

Styling Your Table

Having selected the perfect table shape and size, now comes the fun part - decoratively styling your vignette to showcase treasured items while adding cozy flair. The styling directions are endless, but here are some inspiring ideas.

Display stacked books, vases of fresh flower, and candles for a collected look. Balance photos and art among greenery and organic elements. Incorporate trays or bowls to corral smaller items. Use baskets woven from natural fibers for charming storage.

Rotate decor seasonally to keep the vignette fresh and reflective of changing occasions. Just be sure treasured display pieces won't risk damage from sunlight exposure. Finally, don't overlook lighting elements like table lamps or sconces to complete the look.

With a little creativity, overlooked narrow spaces transform into captivating vignettes brimming with possibility. The right petite table opens the door for stylish new ways to stow, display items, illuminate spaces, or simply bridge the gap between chairs with decorative flair.

Measuring carefully, assess your needs, style preferences and budget to select the ideal shape and size. Then look for ways to creatively merchandize the tabletop landscape - perhaps even discovering renewed purpose for some special items languishing in drawers awaiting their moment in the spotlight.