Throughout the centuries, furniture inside the home has essentially remained the same in terms of functionality. Tables remain a place to gather for a meal; the desk is still a place to pen letters and conduct business; and arm chairs and sofas continue to bring people together in comfort. Furniture staples such as the dresser, bed, and wardrobe are still essential to the comfort of one’s home. Yet, while the function of these pieces may be steadfast, their aesthetics have changed drastically. From Victorian period pieces of elegant and refined designs, to the clean lines of Chippendale, furniture in all different styles act as markers not only for one’s personal taste, but also tell the story of the period in which they were crafted. What links these different furniture styles is the desire to cultivate one’s home as a relaxing and inviting space.
Consider the incredible wealth of styles available on the market today, both antique and contemporary – the choices seem daunting when confronted with so many options. Yet, there is no rule that says all of your pieces of furniture need to be the same style – or even from the same era. When furnishing your home, embracing both modern and antique pieces gives you the unique opportunity to imbue your home with an eclectic style all your own.
Antique side tables are perhaps the easiest way to incorporate antique pieces into a modern environment. These diminutive pieces can help pull the entire look of a room together, while expressing your own taste and personality. For instance, this Black Forest Billiard Scene table is a perfect addition to any eclectic room. Carved in Switzerland’s remarkable Black Forest style, the table depicts lively folk scenes of animals in a popular European motif. The table’s rich, dark finish not only speaks to the mid-1800s Swiss tradition of carved oak pieces, but to an earlier style that is the perfect complement to any modern room.
Using antiques as focal pieces for rooms with an otherwise minimalist aesthetic can also help you achieve a more unique and versatile look. For instance, this stunning Art Nouveau worktable brings a uniquely naturalistic and organic air that can soften more modern styles, such as Mid-Century Modern pieces. This one-of-a kind table truly represents the epitome of the Art Nouveau style. In elaborate craftsmanship, the piece is crafted of numerous fine-grain fruitwoods inlaid with a variety and myriad of intricate designs. Pair it with a modern, streamlined sofa for a dynamic combination.
More monumental in size is this Georgian card table, which incorporates elaborate Gothic styles. Moreover, it acts as a dual functioning piece: a side table and a green-baize playing board. This complex craftsmanship is a testament to mid-eighteenth century artisans. The strong lines of this piece, understated yet highly elegant, would act as the perfect match to any contemporary piece. Pair it with a modern, streamlined sofa for a dynamic combination.
Antique pieces, from side tables to antique arm chairs to armoires, can serve as a focal point in any room, while also creating an individualized space that speaks to your own unique taste. Conversation pieces in their own right, antique side tables of different styles and periods can add a delightful surprise to any space and serve as a testament to one’s own interests.
Curious to learn more about the history of the side table? Read more to learn what constitutes this furnishings fascinating tradition and it's styles in different eras.
