Not to be dramatic, but there’s really nothing worse than a living room that doesn’t have enough table space. Where are you supposed to put your cup of tea, popcorn, book, etc. when you’re trying to get cozy? I understand that some just aren’t big enough for side tables and coffee tables, though — and Mandy Moore’s podcast set sparked a styling trick I just can’t shake. It’s time to combine the best of both worlds and layer your side tables.
Moore and her fellow This Is Us costars host a podcast called That Was Us, where they rewatch and discuss the hit drama series. The podcast, which is also videoed, takes place on a set loosely decorated like the family home from the show. And to keep the studio area tight and compact, a regular coffee table was ditched and swapped for several side tables of varying heights nested together.
The coffee table arrangement changes depending on how many guests are on the show and how much space is needed for drinks, tech, and other accessories. And because side tables are often taller than standard coffee tables, everything stays right within reach.
I love this idea because you can cluster several side tables close together in the center of your living room without taking up much space. Or, use the nesting tables idea to build out an unused corner of a room, adding a lamp or a bunch of plants to bring some life into the area. You can also use and expand on your existing side table collection to increase tabletop space without having to buy larger, bulkier new furniture pieces.
It’s easy to re-create the look by picking up a couple of round tables from the thrift store, if you don’t already own a few — mismatched designs work well for creating the popular vintage, lived-in aesthetic. However you implement this styling trick, taking a cue from Mandy Moore’s podcast set and layering an arrangement of side tables will give you even more room to spread out in your living room — especially if you can’t fit a coffee table.