A nest of tables is a set of two or three tables in graduated sizes, designed so the smaller ones slide beneath the largest when not in use. When you choose one, focus on four things: the footprint of the largest table, the height of the tallest table compared with your sofa arm, a material that suits the room and how smoothly and securely each table slides in and out. Get those right and you have a flexible piece that works as a side table day to day and provides extra surfaces whenever guests arrive.<\/p>\n
Our range of nest of tables UK<\/a> includes sets in wood, glass, high gloss, marble and metal. This guide explains everything you need to consider before choosing one.<\/p>\n The appeal is flexibility. A nest takes up the floor space of a single side table, but gives you two or three surfaces when needed. That makes it valuable in compact homes, where a full sized coffee table might block walkways, and in households that entertain often.<\/p>\n A nest also adapts as your needs change. The tables can be pulled out for drinks, used separately in different parts of the room, or tucked away completely to clear space for children to play. Few other pieces of modern living room furniture UK<\/a> are quite so adaptable.<\/p>\n Most nests come as sets of two or three. A set of three offers the most flexibility and is the traditional configuration. A set of two is slightly more compact and often has a more contemporary look, with the two tables sometimes designed to sit side by side at different heights rather than fully nested.<\/p>\n Think about how often you will separate the tables. If you mainly want a side table with occasional extra space, two is usually enough. If you regularly host friends or family, three gives more options.<\/p>\n The largest table determines how much floor space the nest occupies. Measure the area where it will sit, whether beside the sofa, in a corner or in front of an armchair, and allow some clearance around it. For a spot next to the sofa, a footprint of around 40 to 55cm wide and deep is typical.<\/p>\n The tallest table is usually positioned beside a sofa or chair, so it should sit at roughly the same height as the arm, or slightly below. This keeps a drink or lamp within easy reach. Most nests have a tallest table between 45 and 60cm. Measure the arm height of your sofa before choosing.<\/p>\n Remember that you need room to slide the smaller tables out. Check that there is space in front of or beside the nest for the tables to separate without hitting other furniture or walls.<\/p>\n Wooden nests are the most traditional and among the most versatile. Oak suits both classic and contemporary rooms, walnut brings warmth and a mid century feel, and painted wood can add colour. Wood is durable and repairable, though it needs coasters for hot or wet cups. Our wooden nest of tables UK sale<\/a> selection covers solid wood and veneered designs.<\/p>\n Glass nests keep a room feeling light and open, which is helpful in small spaces. Clear glass almost disappears, while smoked or tinted glass adds a little depth. Look for toughened glass for safety. Browse our modern glass nest of tables UK<\/a> for designs with chrome, gold and black frames.<\/p>\n High gloss finishes are smooth, easy to clean and reflect light, making them a practical choice for modern rooms. White and grey are common, and they coordinate well with high gloss media units and sideboards.<\/p>\n Marble nests offer a touch of luxury and pair beautifully with brass or black metal frames. They are heavier than other options and some stone is porous, so they benefit from careful placement and coasters.<\/p>\n All metal nests, or metal frames with contrasting tops, give a crisp, architectural look. Brass and gold finishes feel warm and decorative, while black steel suits industrial and minimal schemes.<\/p>\n Square and rectangular nests are the most common and fit neatly against walls and sofa arms. Round nests soften a room and work well beside curved sofas or in tight spaces where corners might catch. Some contemporary designs use offset or irregular shapes, where the smaller table sits partly beneath the larger one to create a layered look even when nested.<\/p>\n Consider the style of the legs and frame too. Slim legs create a lighter look, while solid sides or pedestal bases feel more substantial.<\/p>\n Because the tables are moved frequently, construction matters. Check that each table stands firmly on its own, with no wobble. Legs should be securely fixed, and joints on wooden sets should be tight. The smaller tables should slide in and out smoothly without scraping the frame of the larger one.<\/p>\n For homes with young children or pets, consider the weight of each table. Very light tables can be knocked over easily, while very heavy ones are harder to move. Rounded corners are also worth considering for families.<\/p>\n Beside the sofa.<\/strong> The most common position. The tallest table acts as a side or lamp table, and the smaller ones come out when needed.<\/p>\n In place of a coffee table.<\/strong> In small lounges, a nest can replace a coffee table entirely. Spread the tables in front of the sofa in the evening and gather them together during the day to free up floor space.<\/p>\n Beside an armchair.<\/strong> A nest makes a useful reading companion, holding a lamp, a book and a cup of tea.<\/p>\n In a bedroom.<\/strong> A nest can serve as a bedside table with extra surfaces for books or a laptop.<\/p>\n In a hallway or landing.<\/strong> In wider spaces, a nest provides a place for keys, post and a small lamp, with extra surfaces when needed.<\/p>\n A nest of tables does not need to match your coffee table exactly, but it should feel related. The simplest approach is to repeat a material or finish. A walnut nest beside a walnut coffee table looks settled, while a glass nest with a brass frame can echo a brass lamp or mirror elsewhere in the room.<\/p>\n If your coffee table is already a strong statement, such as a marble drum or a sculptural wooden design, choose a quieter nest in a complementary tone so the two pieces do not compete. In a room without a coffee table, the nest can take on more personality, with a bolder material or an unusual shape. Think about height as well. A nest sitting beside a low, deep sofa will look better with a lower tallest table, while a traditional sofa with higher arms suits a taller set.<\/p>\n When nested, treat the tallest table as a side table. A lamp, a small plant or a couple of books work well. Keep the lower tables clear so they can be pulled out without moving anything. When separated, keep styling simple, perhaps a coaster or a small candle on each, so the tables remain practical for drinks and snacks.<\/p>\n Care depends on the material. Wipe wooden tables with a soft, slightly damp cloth and dry them immediately, using coasters to prevent water rings. Clean glass with a gentle glass cleaner and a microfibre cloth. High gloss surfaces respond well to a damp microfibre cloth, avoiding abrasive products. Marble benefits from a pH neutral cleaner and prompt attention to spills. Lift the smaller tables rather than dragging them, to protect floors and the frame of the larger table.<\/p>\n Nests are often discussed alongside side tables, end tables and lamp tables, and the terms can overlap. If you are deciding between them, our guide to side, end and lamp tables in UK homes<\/a> explains how each is typically used and where a nest might fit in instead.<\/p>\nWhy Choose a Nest of Tables?<\/h3>\n
How Many Tables Do You Need?<\/h3>\n
Getting the Size Right<\/h3>\n
Footprint<\/h3>\n
Height<\/h3>\n
Space to pull out<\/h3>\n
Choosing a Material<\/h3>\n
Wood<\/h3>\n
Glass<\/h3>\n
High gloss<\/h3>\n
Marble and stone<\/h3>\n
Metal<\/h3>\n
Shape and Style<\/h3>\n
Stability and Construction<\/h3>\n
Where to Use a Nest of Tables<\/h3>\n
Coordinating a Nest With Other Furniture<\/h3>\n
Styling Your Nest<\/h3>\n
Caring for a Nest of Tables<\/h3>\n
Understanding Related Tables<\/h3>\n
Questions to Ask Before You Choose<\/h3>\n
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