Laura Ashley Side Table

Discovering Beauty in the Details: My Journey Through the World of Laura Ashley Furniture

When I first moved into my own place, I spent countless evenings scrolling through Pinterest boards and interior design magazines, searching for that perfect balance between functionality and style. It wasn’t until I stumbled upon a Laura Ashley side table at a friend’s house that I realized what had been missing from my space—a touch of timeless elegance that only certain heritage brands can truly deliver.

There’s something about a well-crafted side table that transforms a room. It’s not just a place to rest your cup of tea or display a treasured photograph; it’s a statement piece that reflects your personal style. Over the years, I’ve become somewhat of an enthusiast (my husband might say “obsessed”) with Laura Ashley furniture, particularly their side tables. Today, I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned about these beautiful pieces and guide you through the process of finding the perfect Laura Ashley side table for your home.

The Laura Ashley Legacy: Where Tradition Meets Contemporary Design

Before diving into the specifics of their side tables, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich heritage behind the Laura Ashley name. Founded in 1953 by Laura and Bernard Ashley, the brand began as a small business printing textiles on their kitchen table. What started as a modest endeavor quickly blossomed into an internationally recognized brand synonymous with quintessential British style.

While Laura Ashley initially gained fame for their distinctive floral patterns and fabrics, their furniture collection has become equally iconic. The brand’s side tables, in particular, embody their commitment to quality craftsmanship and timeless design. There’s a certain warmth and character to Laura Ashley pieces that mass-produced furniture simply cannot replicate.

Over the decades, the brand has skillfully navigated the balance between honoring traditional aesthetics while embracing contemporary trends. This is perhaps what I love most about their side tables—they somehow manage to feel both nostalgically familiar and refreshingly current.

Popular Laura Ashley Side Table Designs: Finding Your Perfect Match

One of the questions I’m frequently asked is, “What are the most popular Laura Ashley side table designs?” The truth is, their collection is wonderfully diverse, offering something for virtually every taste and interior style. However, there are several designs that have consistently remained customer favorites.

The Brompton range features elegantly carved legs and subtle detailing that exemplifies classic English furniture design. These pieces often incorporate drawer storage with delicate brass handles, making them as practical as they are beautiful. If you’re drawn to furniture with a story to tell, the Brompton side tables might be your perfect match.

For those who prefer a more relaxed country aesthetic, the Garrat collection offers a charming rustic appeal with its honey-colored wood finishes and sturdy construction. I have a Garrat side table in my guest bedroom, and it never fails to receive compliments from visitors.

The Henshaw collection takes a more contemporary approach with clean lines and minimalist design elements while still maintaining that distinctive Laura Ashley quality. These pieces work beautifully in modern settings without feeling cold or impersonal.

What’s remarkable about Laura Ashley’s design philosophy is their attention to detail. Even their most straightforward pieces feature thoughtful touches—perfectly proportioned drawers, elegantly tapered legs, or subtly beveled edges—that elevate them from merely functional furniture to genuine works of craftsmanship.

Material Matters: The Quality Behind Laura Ashley Side Tables

When investing in furniture that you hope will last for generations, understanding the materials used is crucial. Laura Ashley side tables are crafted from premium materials that ensure both beauty and longevity, which explains why vintage pieces remain so sought after decades later.

Solid hardwoods feature prominently in their collections, with oak, maple, and cherry being particular favorites. These woods are prized not only for their durability but also for how they age—developing a rich patina over time that adds character rather than appearing worn.

Many Laura Ashley side tables incorporate veneers for decorative elements, particularly on table tops where intricate patterns or grain arrangements enhance the visual appeal. It’s important to note that their use of veneers is not a cost-cutting measure but rather a traditional furniture-making technique that allows for more elaborate designs while maintaining structural integrity.

The brand also offers painted finishes on many of their side tables, typically in soft, heritage colors that complement their overall aesthetic. These painted pieces often feature distressed or hand-rubbed finishes that give them an heirloom quality from the moment they arrive in your home.

Metal elements, such as drawer pulls, knobs, and decorative accents, are typically crafted from solid brass or other high-quality materials rather than plated alternatives that might tarnish or deteriorate over time. It’s these small details that truly showcase the brand’s commitment to quality.

Size Considerations: Finding the Perfect Fit

Side tables come in various dimensions, and choosing the right size is essential for both functionality and visual harmony. Laura Ashley understands this need for variety and offers their side tables in multiple size options to accommodate different spaces and purposes.

For tight corners or small living rooms, their compact side tables (typically around 45-50cm in width) provide convenient surface space without overwhelming the area. I have one of these smaller models next to a reading chair in my home office, and it’s perfectly proportioned for a lamp, a book, and a cup of tea—what more could you need?

Standard side tables in the Laura Ashley collection usually measure between 55-65cm in width, making them versatile enough for most living spaces. These medium-sized options strike an ideal balance between providing adequate surface area and maintaining a sense of proportion within the room.

For those blessed with more spacious interiors, Laura Ashley’s larger side tables (some extending to 75cm or more in width) make substantial statement pieces. These larger models often incorporate additional storage features such as multiple drawers or shelving.

Height is another important consideration. Traditional side tables are designed to align approximately with the arm height of adjacent seating—typically between 60-65cm tall. However, Laura Ashley also offers lower side tables intended for use beside beds, usually measuring around 50-55cm in height.

When selecting the right size, I always recommend measuring not just the available space but also the height of surrounding furniture. A side table that’s significantly taller or shorter than your sofa arm can look awkward and prove impractical for everyday use.

Wood Finishes and Color Options: Coordinating with Your Décor

The finish of your side table dramatically impacts how it integrates with your existing décor. Laura Ashley excels in offering a thoughtfully curated range of finishes that complement their overall design aesthetic while providing enough variety to suit different interior styles.

Natural wood finishes showcase the inherent beauty of the materials and work wonderfully in both traditional and contemporary settings. Oak finishes range from lighter, more natural tones to deeper, more intense variations. Cherry finishes add warmth with their reddish undertones, while walnut offers a sophisticated, darker option that creates a striking contrast in lighter rooms.

Painted finishes have become increasingly popular in recent years, and Laura Ashley offers several options that reflect current interior trends while remaining timeless. Soft whites and creams create an airy, Scandinavian-inspired look, while sage greens, duck egg blues, and muted grays add subtle color that complements rather than dominates a space.

For those seeking something more distinctive, Laura Ashley occasionally releases limited edition finishes or collaborates with guest designers to create unique color options. These special editions can become cherished collector’s items and often appreciate in value over time.

Many of their side tables feature combination finishes—perhaps a painted frame with a natural wood top or contrasting interior elements in drawers. These thoughtful design details add visual interest and versatility, making it easier to coordinate with existing furniture pieces.

When selecting a finish, consider not just your current décor but how the piece might transition to different settings over time. One of the advantages of investing in quality furniture is its longevity, and choosing a classic finish ensures your side table will remain relevant through evolving interior trends.

Storage Solutions: Practical Elegance

Functionality is paramount in furniture design, and Laura Ashley side tables excel in combining beauty with practicality. Many of their designs incorporate clever storage solutions that help maintain an uncluttered living space without compromising on style.

Single-drawer side tables are perhaps the most common configuration, offering discreet storage for items you want close at hand but not necessarily on display. The drawers in Laura Ashley pieces are typically constructed with traditional joinery techniques such as dovetail joints, ensuring smooth operation and durability.

Multi-drawer options provide more extensive storage capabilities, with some models featuring two or three drawers of varying sizes. These are particularly useful in bedrooms or studies where you might need to organize smaller items.

Open shelf designs create display opportunities while maintaining a lighter visual footprint. I have one of these in my living room, where it showcases a rotating collection of art books and seasonal decorative objects.

Some of the more innovative designs in the Laura Ashley collection include hidden compartments, pull-out surfaces, or convertible features that adapt to different uses. These multifunctional pieces are ideal for smaller living spaces where furniture needs to work harder.

The storage elements in Laura Ashley side tables are thoughtfully designed with practical use in mind. Drawers are proportioned to accommodate common items, shelves are positioned at accessible heights, and any compartments are designed to maximize usable space without compromising the overall aesthetic.

Price Points: Investment Value of Laura Ashley Side Tables

Quality craftsmanship comes at a price, and Laura Ashley side tables represent a significant investment compared to mass-produced alternatives. However, their longevity and timeless design make them a sound financial decision for those who appreciate quality furniture.

Entry-level Laura Ashley side tables typically start around $300-400, usually for smaller, simpler designs with fewer storage features. These pieces still exhibit the brand’s commitment to quality materials and construction but may feature less elaborate detailing.

Mid-range options, which constitute the majority of their collection, generally fall between $500-800. At this price point, you can expect more substantial pieces with additional storage features, premium hardware, and more complex design elements.

Their premium side tables can exceed $1,000, particularly for larger pieces with extensive detailing, rare wood selections, or special finishes. These high-end models often become signature pieces within a room and retain their value remarkably well over time.

What’s worth noting is that Laura Ashley furniture frequently appears on the secondary market at compelling prices. Vintage Laura Ashley side tables in good condition can be found at estate sales, antique stores, or online marketplaces, often for less than their contemporary counterparts. These pre-loved pieces carry the additional charm of history and have already proven their durability.

The brand occasionally offers seasonal sales or promotions that can make their pieces more accessible. Signing up for their newsletter or following them on social media can alert you to these opportunities to acquire Laura Ashley quality at reduced prices.

When considering the cost, it’s important to view a Laura Ashley side table as an investment piece rather than a temporary furnishing solution. The craftsmanship and materials ensure these pieces will outlast trend-driven alternatives, potentially serving multiple generations of your family.

Where to Purchase: Finding Your Perfect Laura Ashley Side Table

One of the most common questions I receive is about where to find authentic Laura Ashley side tables. While the brand has evolved over the years, there are still several reliable sources for both new and vintage pieces.

The official Laura Ashley website remains the primary destination for their current furniture collection. Shopping directly from the brand ensures authenticity and typically provides the most comprehensive warranty coverage. Their online catalog is well-organized, with detailed photographs and specifications that help you make an informed decision.

Authorized retailers also carry Laura Ashley furniture, often with display models that allow you to assess the quality and finish in person before purchasing. Department stores with home furniture sections frequently include Laura Ashley among their premium offerings.

For those interested in vintage or discontinued models, online marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, and 1stDibs regularly feature Laura Ashley pieces. When purchasing from these sources, it’s advisable to request additional photographs and information about the condition, as vintage pieces may show signs of use or require restoration.

Antique shops, estate sales, and furniture consignment stores can be treasure troves for Laura Ashley enthusiasts. I’ve found some of my favorite pieces this way, often at surprisingly reasonable prices. The thrill of the hunt adds to the satisfaction of owning these special pieces.

For those in the UK or visiting, the Laura Ashley Archive Store in Wales occasionally offers sample pieces, discontinued models, or items with minor imperfections at reduced prices. This can be an excellent opportunity to acquire authentic Laura Ashley furniture at a more accessible price point.

Modern Interiors: How Laura Ashley Side Tables Adapt to Contemporary Spaces

A common misconception is that Laura Ashley furniture is exclusively suited to traditional or country-style interiors. In reality, their side tables can integrate beautifully into modern spaces, often providing a welcome counterpoint to more contemporary elements.

The key to incorporating Laura Ashley side tables into modern décor lies in thoughtful placement and styling. A classic wooden side table can warm up a minimalist room that might otherwise feel stark, while a painted piece can introduce a subtle color accent that ties together various elements of your design scheme.

Mixing periods and styles has become a hallmark of sophisticated interior design, and Laura Ashley side tables excel in these eclectic settings. Pairing a traditional side table with modern lighting or contemporary art creates an intriguing visual dialogue between different design eras.

For extremely contemporary spaces, look to Laura Ashley’s more streamlined collections. Their Henshaw range, for example, features cleaner lines and less ornate detailing while maintaining the quality construction that defines the brand. These pieces bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics.

Styling plays a crucial role in how a side table reads within a space. Topping a traditional Laura Ashley table with modern accessories—a sculptural lamp, abstract art books, or contemporary ceramics—can transform its presence in unexpected ways.

The versatility of Laura Ashley side tables is perhaps their most underappreciated quality. Their designs are rooted in classical proportions and timeless construction techniques, allowing them to transcend specific design movements and adapt to evolving interior trends.

Vintage Charm: Finding Heritage Laura Ashley Side Tables

For collectors and enthusiasts, vintage Laura Ashley side tables hold a special allure. These pieces carry not only the quality associated with the brand but also the patina and character that come with age and use.

Identifying authentic vintage Laura Ashley furniture requires some knowledge of their historical designs and construction methods. Earlier pieces often feature more substantial construction, with thicker wood components and less reliance on modern manufacturing techniques. Many vintage items carry labels, stamps, or other identifying marks, though these may have faded or been removed over time.

The most coveted vintage Laura Ashley side tables come from specific eras in the company’s history. Pieces from the 1970s and 1980s, when the brand was at the height of its influence on British interior design, are particularly sought after. These often showcase distinctive design elements characteristic of that period while maintaining the timeless quality for which the brand is known.

Condition is paramount when evaluating vintage pieces. Minor wear consistent with age—subtle color variations in wood, slight loosening at joints, or gentle patina on hardware—can enhance the character of these pieces. However, structural issues, significant damage, or poor-quality repairs can significantly diminish both usability and value.

Restoration of vintage Laura Ashley furniture requires a delicate approach that preserves original finishes and construction details whenever possible. Finding a restorer who specializes in furniture from this era can be invaluable if you’ve discovered a piece with great potential that needs some attention.

The history embedded in these vintage pieces adds an intangible value that new furniture, regardless of quality, simply cannot provide. There’s something deeply satisfying about incorporating furniture with its own story into your home, creating a sense of continuity and connection with the past.

Maintenance and Care: Preserving Your Investment

Proper maintenance ensures your Laura Ashley side table remains beautiful for generations. The specific care requirements depend on the materials and finishes of your particular piece, but there are general guidelines that apply to most Laura Ashley furniture.

For wooden surfaces, regular dusting with a soft, lint-free cloth prevents buildup that can eventually damage finishes. Avoid commercial spray polishes, which can create buildup over time; instead, use a high-quality furniture wax once or twice a year to nourish the wood and maintain its luster.

Painted finishes require gentle cleaning with a slightly damp cloth and immediate drying to prevent water damage. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that might damage the paint surface or any decorative techniques such as distressing or antiquing.

Hardware maintenance includes occasional tightening of knobs or pulls and gentle cleaning appropriate to the material—typically a soft cloth for brass or other metals, avoiding harsh polishes that might remove intentional patination.

Protecting your side table from environmental damage is equally important. Position pieces away from direct sunlight, which can fade finishes and cause wood to dry and potentially crack. Maintain consistent humidity levels in your home to prevent wood from expanding and contracting, which can stress joints over time.

Use coasters under glasses and placemats under hot items to prevent water rings or heat damage to the surface. These simple habits prevent the most common types of damage to fine furniture surfaces.

For any significant cleaning or restoration needs, consulting with a professional furniture restorer familiar with heritage pieces is advisable. They can recommend appropriate techniques and products specific to your table’s materials and finish.

Environmental Considerations: Laura Ashley’s Approach to Sustainability

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, many consumers are rightfully concerned about the ecological impact of their furniture choices. Laura Ashley has responded to these concerns with several initiatives aimed at increasing the sustainability of their production processes.

Their commitment to quality inherently supports sustainability—furniture designed to last for decades creates less waste than disposable alternatives that might be replaced every few years. The durability of Laura Ashley side tables means fewer resources consumed over time compared to lower-quality options.

Many of their wood components come from managed forests with replanting programs, ensuring the continued availability of these natural resources. The brand has also explored more sustainable material options in recent collections, including reclaimed wood for certain design lines.

Finishing processes have evolved to incorporate more environmentally friendly options, with lower VOC (volatile organic compound) emissions and water-based alternatives to traditional solvent-heavy finishes. These improvements benefit both environmental health and the indoor air quality of your home.

Packaging materials have also received attention, with recycled and recyclable options replacing less sustainable alternatives where possible. These changes reflect an understanding that environmental responsibility extends beyond the product itself to include its entire lifecycle.

For the environmentally conscious consumer, vintage Laura Ashley pieces represent perhaps the most sustainable option—extending the useful life of existing furniture rather than consuming resources for new production. This approach aligns perfectly with the growing interest in circular economy principles.

Shape Selection: Beyond the Traditional Rectangle

While rectangular side tables remain the most common configuration, Laura Ashley offers various shapes that can better suit specific spaces or aesthetic preferences. Understanding these options helps you select the most appropriate design for your needs.

Round side tables create a softer visual impression and work particularly well in rooms with many angular elements or in tight spaces where corners might create obstacles. Their curved edges are also safer in households with young children or in high-traffic areas.

Square side tables maximize surface area in relation to their footprint and create a more structured, geometric presence. These work well in contemporary settings or spaces where precise alignment with other furniture pieces is desired.

Oval options combine the softness of round tables with a more elongated profile that can better accommodate table lamps or larger display items. These transitional shapes bridge traditional and contemporary design sensibilities.

Half-moon or demilune tables are designed to sit flush against walls, making them ideal for hallways, entryways, or other narrow spaces. Laura Ashley offers several elegant variations on this space-saving design.

Nested table sets, consisting of two or three coordinating tables of graduated sizes, provide flexible surface options that can be expanded when entertaining or condensed when not in use. These versatile groupings have become increasingly popular for modern living.

Unusual or specialty shapes appear occasionally in limited collections, including triangular corner tables, hexagonal designs, or asymmetrical artistic pieces. These more distinctive options can serve as conversation-starting focal points within a room.

The shape you select should complement both the functional requirements of the space and the overall design direction of your interior. A thoughtfully chosen shape can solve practical challenges while enhancing the aesthetic cohesion of your room.

Comparing Quality: Laura Ashley vs. Other Premium Brands

When investing in quality furniture, it’s natural to compare options across different premium brands. Laura Ashley side tables hold their own against other high-end manufacturers, with several distinguishing characteristics worth noting.

Compared to other British heritage brands, Laura Ashley furniture often offers a more accessible price point while maintaining similar quality standards. The construction techniques and materials align with traditional British craftsmanship, though perhaps with slightly less elaborate detailing than the most expensive bespoke options.

Against American premium brands, Laura Ashley side tables typically feature more European-influenced designs with greater emphasis on decorative elements rather than the straightforward functionality that characterizes many American furniture traditions. The finishing techniques often differ as well, with Laura Ashley favoring more layered, complex finishes that create depth and character.

Scandinavian premium furniture tends toward cleaner lines and lighter woods than typical Laura Ashley pieces, though the brand has introduced collections that incorporate some Scandinavian design influences while maintaining their distinctive aesthetic identity.

What truly sets Laura Ashley side tables apart is their recognizable design language—a coherent vision that balances traditional elements with approachable elegance. Their pieces avoid the ostentation of some luxury brands while offering more refined detailing than mid-market alternatives.

The brand’s longevity speaks to the enduring appeal of their design approach and the reliability of their quality standards. Few furniture brands have maintained such consistent identity and customer loyalty across decades of changing interior trends.

Creating Cohesive Interiors: Matching Furniture Collections

For those seeking to create a coordinated interior, Laura Ashley offers comprehensive furniture collections that include complementary pieces designed to work together harmoniously. These extended collections allow you to maintain design continuity throughout your home.

Most Laura Ashley side table designs belong to broader furniture ranges that include coffee tables, console tables, bookcases, and occasionally larger pieces such as dining tables or bedroom furniture. This makes it straightforward to create a cohesive look without exact matching, which can sometimes feel overly formal or contrived.

The Brompton collection exemplifies this approach, with side tables that coordinate with an extensive range of living room, dining room, and bedroom pieces. The shared design elements—distinctive leg profiles, consistent hardware, and matching finishes—create visual connections between different functional areas.

For those who prefer a more eclectic approach, Laura Ashley side tables can be thoughtfully combined with pieces from different collections within the brand. Their design team ensures a level of compatibility between their various ranges, allowing for creative mixing while maintaining an overall sense of intentionality.

Beyond furniture, Laura Ashley’s comprehensive approach to home design extends to complementary accessories, textiles, and wall coverings that coordinate with their furniture collections. This integrated design philosophy makes it possible to create deeply cohesive interiors where every element feels considered.

The advantage of investing in collection pieces rather than isolated items becomes apparent over time, as you can gradually add coordinating elements as your needs or space evolves. This long-term approach to interior design creates homes that feel thoughtfully assembled rather than hastily furnished.

Assembly and Delivery: Practical Considerations

The practicalities of acquiring a Laura Ashley side table deserve consideration, particularly regarding delivery options and any required assembly. Understanding these aspects helps ensure a smooth experience from purchase to placement in your home.

Most Laura Ashley side tables arrive fully assembled or require minimal assembly, typically limited to attaching legs or installing hardware. This reflects their premium positioning and traditional construction methods, which differ from flat-pack alternatives that prioritize shipping efficiency over quality.

Delivery services vary depending on your location and the specific retailer. The official Laura Ashley website typically offers several delivery options, including standard delivery to your door and premium services that include placement in your chosen room and removal of packaging materials.

When ordering larger or more delicate pieces, white-glove delivery services are worth considering despite their additional cost. These specialized services ensure proper handling throughout the delivery process and minimize the risk of damage during transportation.

For those purchasing vintage or second-hand Laura Ashley side tables, arranging appropriate transportation requires careful planning. Professional furniture movers understand the proper handling of quality pieces and can be a worthwhile investment for valuable or delicate items.

Some retailers offer additional services such as old furniture removal or placement and setup of your new pieces. These conveniences can be particularly valuable when replacing existing furniture or when physical limitations make handling heavy items challenging.

The Personal Touch: Why I Love My Laura Ashley Side Tables

After exploring all these practical considerations, I want to share why I personally cherish my collection of Laura Ashley side tables. Beyond the objective quality and design elements, these pieces have become meaningful parts of my home and daily life.

My first Laura Ashley side table was a wedding gift from my grandmother—a beautifully proportioned oval piece with a single drawer and elegantly turned legs. It has moved with me through three homes and various room configurations, always finding a perfect spot and purpose. The drawer has held everything from stationery to children’s art supplies to my current collection of reading glasses and bookmarks.

What continues to impress me is how these pieces adapt to changing circumstances and design preferences. When we renovated our living room in a more contemporary direction, I was initially concerned that my traditional Laura Ashley side table might feel out of place. Instead, it provided a perfect bridge between old and new elements, its warm wood tones softening the otherwise crisp, modern space.

The craftsmanship becomes more apparent over time. While other furniture pieces have shown their age less gracefully, requiring repairs or replacement, my Laura Ashley tables remain structurally sound and visually appealing despite years of daily use. The drawers still glide smoothly, the finishes maintain their depth and character, and the proportions feel as right today as when they were designed.

Perhaps most importantly, these pieces carry memories and associations that purely functional furniture never could. The side table where my children placed cookies for Santa, the one that held countless cups of tea during difficult conversations with friends, the surface where family photographs have been displayed for decades—these pieces become repositories of life’s moments in a way that transcends their practical purpose.

Conclusion: Making Your Selection

Choosing the perfect Laura Ashley side table is ultimately a personal decision that balances practical considerations with aesthetic preferences and emotional resonance. Throughout this guide, I’ve attempted to provide comprehensive information to inform that choice, but the final selection should reflect your unique needs and vision for your home.

Whether you’re drawn to the heritage appeal of their classic designs, the practical functionality of their storage solutions, or the enduring quality of their craftsmanship, a Laura Ashley side table represents not just a furniture purchase but an investment in your daily living environment.

Take time to consider how the piece will function in your space, which design elements speak most strongly to your personal aesthetic, and how the table might evolve with your home over time. Visit showrooms if possible to experience the pieces firsthand, noting details like drawer movement, finish quality, and proportions that might not be fully apparent in photographs.

Remember that the best furniture choices serve both practical needs and emotional ones—creating not just functional spaces but environments that feel meaningfully connected to your life and values. A thoughtfully selected Laura Ashley side table can fulfill both these requirements, becoming not just something you own but something you treasure.

Whether you choose a contemporary piece from their current collection or a cherished vintage find with its own history, I hope this guide helps you discover a Laura Ashley side table that brings as much joy and satisfaction to your home as mine have brought to me. Happy hunting!