Side tables are usually underrated furniture pieces. However, these small but mighty pieces of furniture can significantly affect the overall look and feel of a room. With their versatility and practicality, side tables are a must-have in any home.
Side tables or small coffee tables are practical pieces of furniture. These can also be a creative and unique addition to any home decor. By exploring unconventional spaces and design concepts, you can elevate the style and functionality of your space, one side table at a time.
Unexpected Side Table Ideas to Elevate the Space
If you’re looking for ways to spice up your space, below is a list of unexpected side table ideas that will not only add character and functionality to your home but also elevate the overall style of your space:
Use a Wooden Barrel as a Side Table
A wooden barrel can be repurposed into an unexpected side table that adds rustic charm to a space. The natural wood texture of the barrel can complement a variety of decor styles, from farmhouse to industrial. In addition, wooden barrel side tables may elevate the space in a living room, a home bar, or a patio space.
Repurpose an Old Wire Spool as a Side Table:
An old wire spool can be transformed into a unique and industrial-style side table. This kind of side table can elevate a loft-style apartment, a home office, or a modern living room. The cylindrical shape of the wire spool adds visual interest to a space, and its wooden design adds warmth and texture. Use this side table to display a statement piece (e.g., sculpture, large vase).
Create a Side Table out of Stacked Vintage Suitcases
Stack two or three vintage suitcases to create a stylish side table with a travel-themed twist. The suitcases can be left as-is for a vintage look or painted in a bold color for a modern twist. This side table can enhance a bedroom, a home office, or a living room with a global or bohemian vibe.
The suitcases offer storage space for blankets, magazines, or other small items. Use this side table to showcase travel souvenirs or to add a playful touch to a room.
Use a Stack of Colorful Plastic Crates as a Side Table
A stack of colorful plastic crates can be turned into a fun and modern side table. Use zip ties to securely stack the crates and add a piece of tempered glass on top for a sleek surface. This side table can be useful in a kids’ room, a playroom, or a colorful and eclectic living room.
Repurpose an Old Garden Pot or Urn as a Stylish Side Table
An old garden pot or urn can be repurposed into a stylish and unexpected side table. Add a round glass top or a wooden plank to create a functional surface. This stylish side table can be used in a garden room, sunroom, or an eclectic living room.
Use a Large Tree Stump as a Natural and Organic Side Table
A large tree stump can be utilized as a unique and organic side table. Leave the stump as-is for a natural look, or sand and paint it for a more polished look. This side table can be used in a cabin-style living room, a cozy den, or a modern space that needs a touch of nature.
Use a Small Ladder as a Side Table
A small ladder can be repurposed into a stylish and functional side table. The steps on the ladder can be used as shelves for holding books, plants, or other small objects. This side table can be used in a minimalist living room, a Scandinavian-inspired space, or a cozy bedroom.
The ladder adds height and visual interest to a space, while the shelves offer practical storage space. Use this side table to display your favorite books or plants uniquely and unexpectedly.

Create a Side Table out of a Vintage Record Player or Radio:
As unusual as it sounds, an old record player or a radio can be repurposed into a retro-style side table. Add a wooden top to the record player or radio to create a flat surface. This vintage side table can enhance your music room, a retro-themed living room, or a vintage-inspired bedroom.
Use a Stack of Vintage Books as a Side Table:
A stack of vintage books can be an unexpected and literary-inspired side table. Choose books with colorful covers or interesting typography to add visual interest to the stack. In addition, this side table can be a cozy reading nook, a home library, or a bohemian living room.
Get Creative and Elevate Your Space with Unique Side Tables Today
Incorporating creative and unconventional side tables into your space can add a unique and unexpected touch to your decor. By thinking outside the box and repurposing unusual items, you can elevate the style and functionality of your space.
From using a large tree stump as a natural and organic side table to repurposing a vintage sewing machine table, there are endless possibilities for creating a side table as unique as you are.