Small table sets of three are my favorite occasional tables for feathering my own nest. These tables can divide and conquer my entertaining needs when lots of guests require places for lots of drinks. It’s not like we have the blender going every weekend, but when I throw my annual all-girl costume Oscar party or have the book club over, the room fills up fast and one coffee table doesn’t do the trick.
While I’m a sucker for lacquer, like the slick and boxy parson designs of Jonathan Adler, I know the material isn’t the healthiest for the environment. But there are cool alternatives in the sustainable and salvaged market.
Viva Terra for example, offers weathered wood and metal nesting tables made of hardwood salvaged from old houses, $289 for a set of three. Expect blemishes in the carvings from past eras. This adds to the allure. The graceful metal frames fit well in both modern and country motifs.
More husky are the Ventura Wicker nesting tables from Palacek featuring recycled plank tops and a traditional 70’s contemporary profile. At Foragers I found a set with an angular design and glass tops on brass supports for $625.
And if you are a fan of Mid-Century, like I am, sites like Vintage Modern Furniture Gallery have Eames era beauties, including a threesome by Harvey Prober for $3500 (big commitment) and a handsome Art Deco grouping for $650. You are making an investment when you look to vintage and retro nesters, but the pay off is a lovely statement. Some clients even import nesting tables fromt sites like Retrotogo where I found a set of Josef Albers Bauhaus design tables for $2000.
Whichever you choose, these tables will be enormously functional in the room where you do the most entertaining. Some are even sturdy enough to double as stools!