top of page
Writer's pictureNoor Khalid

10 Creative Outdoor Side Table Ideas to Elevate Your Patio Decor

Updated: Jul 30

Imagine this: you're relaxing in your backyard, perhaps on the patio or balcony, soaking up the sun. But something seems to be missing. What is it, you may ask? A fantastic outdoor side table for keeping your essentials and elevating your chill area vibes. In this article, we will discuss the coolest side tables that are making headlines this season.

 

Our inclination to spend time outside varies with the seasons. Whether you have a large backyard, a quiet balcony, or a little patio, creating a welcoming outdoor environment is crucial for enjoying nature's beauty. The outdoor side table is a versatile and practical component that may transform your outdoor experience. It is often neglected but has a significant influence.

 

A symphony of styles

1. Boho-Chic Rattan Elegance:

Shop: Homary


Price:$229.99

Overall Height: 17.7 inches


beige rattan outdoor side table

Rattan side tables embody the bohemian vibe. Intricately woven patterns and earthy tones add a sense of relaxed refinement to your outdoor space. These lightweight tables combine seamlessly with a variety of styles, bringing a natural and boho-chic vibe to your space.


2. Industrial Minimalism with Concrete:

Shop: FRONTERA


Price: $864

Overall Height: 15 inches

concrete outdoor side table

If you prefer a modern, industrial look, concrete side tables are the way to go. They're the street-smart relatives of classic tables, providing an edgy element to your outdoor space.

 

Concrete side tables are ideal for a modern, industrial aesthetic. These tables are sleek and strong, with a minimalist look and a durable surface for your outdoor needs. The combination of stark concrete and lush greenery makes a visually appealing composition.

 

 3. Teak Wood Serenity:


Price: $239-$279

Overall Height: 16.5 inches


teak patio side table

    Teak wood side tables have a timeless charm. Teak tables are known for their durability and resistance to the environment. They develop a beautiful patina over time. Their warm tones and natural grains lend a touch of timeless elegance to any outdoor area.


4. Funky Folding Tables:

Shop: giantex


Price: $49.95

Overall Height:18.5 inches


simple foldable side table

Short on space? Choose funky folding side tables. These space-saving miracles are available in a range of shapes and colors, providing both convenience and style. Folding tables are ideal for picnics, outdoor events, or an impromptu afternoon tea. They add a playful aspect to your outdoor design.


Functionality meets innovation


 5. Multifunctional Storage Solutions:

Shop: Wayfair


price: $105.99

Overall Height: 15 inches


metal storage side table for outdoors

Side tables that also serve as storage spaces provide maximum usefulness. These tables, which feature secret compartments or shelves, make it easy to store blankets, books, or gardening tools. This useful solution keeps your outside setting clean and clutter-free.


 6. LED-Lit Ambiance:

Shop: bestier


price: $269.99

Overall Height: 32 inches


wine storage side table

   Take your outdoor evenings to the next level with LED-lit side tables. These innovative tables feature built-in LED lights, creating a warm and inviting glow. Perfect for entertaining or unwinding after dark, LED-lit tables infuse your outdoor space with a touch of enchantment.


7. Interactive and Playful:


Price: $7499

Overall Height: 31 inches


game night table

 Interactive side tables will add a fun aspect to your outdoor space. Some designs include built-in board games, puzzles, and even tabletop fire pits. These tables not only serve a practical purpose, but they also promote social contact and outdoor recreation.


Nature-Inspired Artistry


 8. Tree Stump Charm:

Shop: Cosiest


Price: $109

Overall Height: 16.9 inches


owl stump side table for patio

Tree stump side tables add a forest-like feel to your outdoor space. These tables are made of repurposed wood or resin and look like genuine tree stumps. The organic and rustic charm seamlessly ties your outdoor hideaway to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.


9. Pebble-Inspired Perfection:

Shop: Hernest


Price: $130.99

Overall Height: 23.6 inches


ottoman and side table combo

Pebble-inspired side tables recreate the calm of a trickling brook. These tables, which are frequently made of durable materials such as marble or resin, mimic the smooth and rounded shapes of river stones. The end effect is a visually relaxing addition to your outdoor hideaway.


10. Ceramic Marvels


price: $1,980

Overall Height:14.5 inches


ceramic roman venetian outdoor side table

With ceramic side tables, you can infuse your outdoor space with modern day-inspired colors and hues. These tables, made of ceramic materials, have an eye-catching statement visual impact. Choose from a range of themes, including roman motifs and geometric patterns, to complement your outdoor taste.


Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Side Table


Are you having trouble choosing the perfect side table? When selecting the ideal outdoor side table for your space, considering the following factors would be a great help for you:


Material Durability

When picking tables, material durability is critical, especially for outdoor furniture. Durable materials, such as weather-resistant synthetics, teak, or metal, provide resistance, increasing longevity and decreasing the need for frequent replacements. Durable materials have intrinsic characteristics such as strength, resistance to wear and tear, and low maintenance, which contribute to the table's overall functionality and beauty. Furthermore, the weight and portability of these materials can affect their adaptability in various configurations. Consider the environmental impact and choose sustainable options that match a responsible and long-term attitude to furnishing, making material durability a critical aspect in making knowledgeable and long-lasting decisions.


Space Considerations

When looking for outdoor side tables, consider the available space. The side table's size should blend smoothly with the outside area, giving utilitarian surfaces without overwhelming the space. Analyze the layout of your patio or deck to ensure that the side table complements the overall design while allowing for easy movement. Choose compact designs for smaller outdoor settings, and if versatility is important, seek foldable or stacking options. Balancing the size of the side table with the surrounding features ensures that it is both useful and visually appealing in your outside space, contributing to a comfortable and well-designed outdoor experience.

 

Functionality

  When picking outdoor side tables, functionality comes first. These sculptures not only add to the aesthetics of your outdoor space, but they also serve a purpose. Consider how you intend to utilize the side tables, whether for storing drinks or reading. Storage compartments or built-in shelves can be particularly useful in smaller outdoor settings. Choosing weather-resistant materials ensures resilience against weather conditions, which improves the functioning and longevity of the side tables. Prioritizing utility not only improves the usability of your outdoor area but also allows you to make more informed furniture purchases that are tailored to your lifestyle and needs.


Maintenance Requirements

When choosing outdoor side tables, it is critical to consider their care requirements. Outdoor furniture is exposed to a variety of weather conditions, and proper upkeep can have a considerable impact on its longevity. Choosing materials that are simple to clean and maintain, such as weather-resistant metals or treated wood, will save you time and effort in the long term. Regular cleaning and preventive treatments can help prevent rust, mold, and discoloration, ensuring that your outdoor side tables remain attractive and practical over time. By considering maintenance requirements, you make a practical decision that is consistent with your willingness to care for and preserve the beauty of your outdoor furniture.


How tall should a side table be?

When it comes to outdoor side tables, consider functional comfort combined with a touch of style. Whether it's sitting next to your patio sofa or lounging chair, you want a table that's 22 to 30 inches tall. This delightful place keeps your iced tea or favorite book within arm's reach while you enjoy the sunshine. Decorating your garden oasis? Aim for the same range of 24 to 30 inches to keep your outdoor items right where you need them. And, if your side table joins the outdoor coffee table crew, maintaining them at similar heights creates visual harmony. So, measure up, envision your ideal outdoor moment, and let your side table be the fashionable companion that completes your outdoor environment.


wooden chunky side table for outdoors

How to decorate a side table?

Decorating your outdoor side table is all about combining style and functionality. Begin with a weather-resistant tablecloth or runner to offer color while protecting the surface. For a natural touch, choose potted plants or succulents in brightly colored pots. Consider using lanterns or string lights to create a comfortable feel in the evenings. A stack of outdoor-friendly books or magazines adds a personal touch, while a tray filled with citronella candles serves a second purpose of repelling mosquitoes. Mix and combine textures, such as woven baskets or ceramic accessories, to create visual interest.


wooden outdoor side table with table decor

Credit: Casa gear


As we conclude off our outdoor side tables, keep in mind that these seemingly minor additions may have a big influence on your outdoor environment. Whether you're looking for a quiet balcony refuge or a big patio sanctuary, the proper side table is essential for creating the desired ambiance. Consider how your outdoor space may expand in the future, and allow your side table to grow alongside it. Perhaps you'll add some colorful couches or experiment with new lighting. Think about how you will decorate the side table. Whatever the future holds, your side table will be there, ready to meet your evolving requirements and styles. So, here's to outdoor relaxing, outdoor dining, and the limitless possibilities that a well-chosen side table provides!


bottom of page