Finding pieces that look beautiful but are also built to last is of utmost importance. The art of high-quality craftsmanship can enhance a space, specifically when it comes to side tables.

Enhancing Your Space with Beautiful Side Tables

Side tables are more than just a place to put your cup of tea and a table lamp or stack a few magazines. They can become a focal point in a room, adding a touch of elegance and style. But to truly make a statement, it’s essential to invest in luxury side tables that are not only visually pleasing but also versatile, timeless and made with the utmost care and attention to detail. One of the benefits of investing in high-quality side tables is the versatility they offer – these pieces can seamlessly fit into any interior decoration. They complement a wide range of styles and can be placed in many rooms (living rooms, bedrooms, bathrooms, offices, lounges, entrance halls, bars).

What is the definition of high-quality craftsmanship?

Craftsmanship is the heart and soul of design furniture and a heritage we should preserve. High-quality craftsmanship refers to the skill and expertise employed in creating a product that is meticulously designed, constructed, and finished to the highest standards. It encompasses a combination of traditional techniques, time dedication, and the use of premium materials to ensure durability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Here are some key elements to achieving such craftsmanship:

1. Material Selection: The choice of materials is crucial when it comes to creating high-quality furniture. Opting for natural, durable, and sustainable materials such as solid wood, cork, marble or vegetable fibers will ensure longevity and a luxurious feel.

2. Attention to Detail: High-quality craftsmanship is all about handmade details and time dedicated by artisans. Meticulous attention to detail, from the joinery and edges to the intricate carvings and refined finishes, is what elevates a piece of furniture from average to exceptional.

3. Skillful Joinery: In handcrafted pieces, every joint, seam, and curve is executed with precision. The focus is on creating furniture that not only looks stunning but also functions flawlessly. Each step of the manufacturing process is executed by the craftsmen with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that every element is aligned, balanced, and fitted together seamlessly.

4. Finishing Techniques: The finishing touches applied to the furniture are the last part of the production and contribute to the overall quality of a side table. From hand-sanding and hand-polishing to applying natural paint or varnish, the right finishing techniques can enhance the appearance and protect the furniture from wear and tear.

5. Ergonomics: High-quality craftsmanship includes a deep understanding of ergonomics, ensuring that the furniture such as side tables are visually appealing and also functional.

6. Sustainability: High-quality craftsmanship also involves a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. Artisans who prioritize these values ensure that the materials they use are responsibly sourced and adhere to environmentally friendly standards. They prioritize fair labor practices and create furniture that is built to last which means that your investment will stand the test of time, saving you money in the long run.

What materials are the best for high-quality side tables?

When it comes to side tables, the choice of material can greatly impact their overall quality and appeal. Here are some materials that are considered the best for side tables:

1. Wood: One of the most popular and timeless materials for furniture is wood. It adds warmth and natural beauty to a room but is also highly durable and long-lasting. With a table top of wood veneer, the FLORA side table will in any case brighten up a living room with its modern and playful look. Besides this, FLORA round side table is compact which is perfect for small spaces.

2. Marble: Marble is a luxurious material of excellence that instantly elevates the look of any side table. It is known for its elegance, durability, and timeless appeal. The Mineral Sculptural Table by Ferm Living is an example of that. Characterized by its distinctive shape, rough edges and contrasting polished surfaces, it has a raw, brutalist expression that will make the difference. Another choice is the LAGO side table developed by Christophe de Sousa for WeWood. It is a solid marble base and a delicate top in wood, blending elegance and functionality.

LAGO side table by WeWood (left) and FLORA side table by DAM (right). Photo Credits: WeWood (left); DAM (right).

3. Cork: Cork is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that is gaining popularity in furniture design. It is lightweight, durable, and has natural insulation properties. For example, the DUO side table can be styled indoors or out. And more than that, DUO is two in one: a square side table or a circular stool. Another example is the African Cork side table from WiidDesign and manufactured in Cape Town.

4. Vegetable Fibers: Side tables made from natural vegetable fibers such as rattan, bamboo, osier or seagrass are often used for creating lightweight and eco-friendly furniture. These materials add a rustic charm and also contribute to a sustainable and environmentally friendly design. For example, the stunning CELESTE side table developed by Christophe de Sousa for DAM would look gorgeous styled next to any simple sofa, because of its statement-making shape.

5. Finishing Materials: The choice of finishing materials, such aqueous coating or varnish, can also greatly impact the quality and appeal of side tables. Opting for high-quality finishing materials with natural appeal ensures that the tables are protected from wear and tear and maintain their visual appeal over time.

When choosing material, also keep maintenance in mind — any surface that will be home to beverages will inevitably come in contact with liquids that could damage the surface. For this reason, have coasters at hand as a preventative measure.

In conclusion, when it comes to side tables, craftsmanship and material selection are key factors in determining their quality and appeal. Paying attention to the finer details, using joinery techniques and tools, applying the right finishing touches, and choosing the best materials will result in side tables that are visually appealing but also durable and long-lasting. It’s important to note that the choice of material ultimately depends on personal preference and the overall aesthetic of the room. Whether you’re seeking a modern wooden side table with gold accents, or after a classic country-style round side table, there are pieces for every taste and style. Mixing materials can also create interesting and dynamic side table options.

Mass-produced furniture often lacks the attention to detail and durability of handmade products, leading to quicker wear and tear and ultimately contributing to the cycle of waste. By choosing well-made side tables made in natural materials, you can reduce your environmental footprint and create a more sustainable living environment.

Where can I buy a side table?

Santo Infante shop, in Lisbon. Photo Credits: Rodrigo Cardoso.

There are many places where you can buy a side table, online or in physical stores. Some popular online retailers include Clippings and Finnish Design Shop, while physical stores like Santo Infante, Zara Home, IKEA and Maison du Monde offer a range of side tables as well. If you’re looking for beautiful side tables of High-Quality Craftsmanship, consider checking out DAM’s collection of side tables in our online shop or if you need a more professional follow-up, select one of our tables on our professional-oriented page and contact us.