Put together a living room that's modern and elegant by matching your end tables to a coffee table from the same collection. Plus, if you redecorate, these clear tables can stay put because they go with any color scheme. They're not just good for living rooms but also bedrooms and dorms. These transparent tables are sturdy and designed to save space. If you want an ultra-modern look that goes with virtually any living room furniture, consider tables made from clear acrylic. Some of these side tables - such as the Cami Indoor/Outdoor Ceramic Round Side Table - are suitable for placement next to your patio sofa or chairs because they're made to withstand the elements. The Mid-Century side table has drawers for stylish storage and goes with other pieces from this line. Or create a well-matched look with wood tables from the Mid-Century collection. Impart contemporary style to your living room with a mixed-material end table, such as the metal-and-marble Hex Side Table. Some are equipped with shelves and drawers for storage, and there are tiered styles such as the sleek three-shelf Profile Side Table. You'll find round side and end tables for a modern look, along with traditional square and rectangular tables. Table styles include C-side tables, sets of nesting tables and fluted pedestal tables.

A bookcase can provide room for reading material and fill in the space add a small lamp on the end table for soft illumination. Decorate the space with an accent rug, such as a shag or wool rug with an abstract motif. Or you can create a social space with a side table positioned between two accent chairs.

Side and end tables can also work well in a nook beside a cozy armchair. West Elm has practical yet stylish beverage coasters in styles such as Marble Onyx, Constellation Glass and Stone Quartz, to name just three. As mentioned, you can place a table on either side of your sofa so people can set drinks down, preferably on coasters to protect your tabletop. There's basically no difference between side and end tables.

These essential pieces can be positioned on either end of the sofa and matched to coffee tables for a coordinated look. Furnish your living room with side tables to add convenient surface space.

Small end tables