Styling Tips Using An Outdoor Side Table

Have you recently purchased an outdoor side table and are unsure how to style it? Styling a side table can seem difficult, but with these simple tips, you’ll have your outdoor space looking chic and put together in no time.

Start with a base:

Every good style wants a solid start. Pick one main item for your outdoor side table. This could be a lantern, a sturdy potted plant like succulents or herbs, or a small sculpture. This anchor piece sets the mood. For a relaxed feel, use a woven basket. For a modern space, try a smooth, solid colored pot. This item stays put as the core of your display.

Add height and life:

Plants are your best friend outdoors. They add color and a fresh feel. Use your anchor piece as a middle point, and then add a taller element behind or beside it. A slender vase with a few cut flowers from your garden, a tall candle, or a small topiary in a pot works well.

Include practical pieces:

Remember, this table is for use, too. Style around that reality. Leave clear space for a coaster and a cool glass of lemonade. You can add a small tray to hold items like a bottle of sunscreen or napkins. This keeps small things neat and also acts as another layer.

Play with textures:

The best outdoor spaces feel rich and natural. Mix different materials on your table surface. Place a smooth stone next to a rough terracotta pot. Use a glass votive holder beside a linen napkin. If your table is metal, add a woven placemat underneath your anchor piece. These contrasts are pleasing and make the space feel collected over time.

Change with the season:

Your side table can reflect the time of year. In summer, use bright bowls filled with citrus fruit or seashells. For autumn, switch to pinecones and a warm, plaid blanket draped on the chair nearby. A simple swap of one or two items keeps your look fresh and connected to nature’s cycle.

Light up the evening:

As the sun sets, your side table can set a cozy mood. Use your table to hold light sources. Flameless candles in lanterns are safe and pretty. String lights can be tucked into a jar for a soft glow. The light will sparkle off glass and metal, creating a welcoming atmosphere for evening chats.