Charming Tiny Tables Are Trending Again. Here's How You Can Style Them Like A Pro

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Arguably one of the most overlooked items of furniture, a tiny table is a surprisingly useful way to complete a room. Today's tiny tables harken back to a trend that had its heyday in the 1920s through the 1950s: the telephone table. At that time, it was de rigueur to keep the family telephone on a small designated stand in a hallway or next to a bed or sofa. While today's technology has certainly changed since the last century, the tiny table has cycled back over time to become a useful piece in your home.

But, "What is the difference between a tiny table, an end table, or a side table?" It can be confusing, especially when the terms are used interchangeably and the tables aren't always designated for just one use. It all comes down to size and purpose. A side table is usually the biggest option, functioning as everything from an accent piece in a corner of a room to a nightstand. A standard end table may measure a little smaller and is designed to be placed next to your sofa or chair as a spot to keep a lamp or your TV remote. A tiny table can function as a side table or an end table, but its surface area is smaller, making it more portable. 

They're the perfect perch for a drink during a party, your morning coffee as you get ready, or next to your favorite chair and topped with a book and a cup of tea. Take a note from history and set up a tiny table for your phone, but this time as a tech-charging station. A tiny table doesn't even need a practical use, as it can even be a beautiful accent piece all on its own. The key to a designer look is to display items that are well-balanced with the size and shape of your tiny table.

Tiny table styles can run the gamut. A stool table is one simple and straightforward way to incorporate the look into your home, such as with this Ethuh Mid Century Plant Table. Stools are a perfect perch for a trendy houseplant and work well when placed in the corner of a room. On the other hand, a pedestal-style table is ideal for holding a drink. At a little over 6 pounds, this KJGKK Drink Table is lightweight enough to move around as needed. A tiny table with multiple levels is good for displaying a handful of special items. Use the top level for your drink, and then consider placing items like a decorative dish or small houseplant on the other levels.

If you're unsure what exactly to put on your table, the secret is making sure that whatever you choose feels balanced for the size and style. For example, a table with a delicate base works well with a narrow vase and a small bunch of flowers, such as this minimalistic Valemoon Ceramic Vase. A thicker table might be a good spot for a stack of books. And no matter which tiny table style fits your space best, it always works to follow the rule of three for balance. Candles of different sizes, mini vases in different heights, and sets of seasonal decor all make beautiful, stylish options.