Desks & Tables

Tables and desks provide us with the surfaces on which we live and work, and are some of the most essential pieces of furniture in the home. Though all tables share common characteristics (a flat surface and one or more legs to stand on), variations in shape, dimensions, and additional features have resulted in numerous different types of table with distinct functions around the home. At HAY, shop contemporary home office desks and contemporary tables, including dining tables, side tables and end tables, nightstands and bedside tables, coffee tables, outdoor tables, and more.

Contemporary tables and desks typically share additional qualities that set them apart from traditional and mid-century modern tables. Contemporary tables can sometimes be considered minimalist tables for their simple, unembellished silhouettes. They typically feature clean-lined straight or tapered legs that lack ornate carvings or other designs. Some contemporary tables, typically smaller side tables, contemporary bedside tables, or minimalist coffee tables, exchange legs altogether for sculptural or pedestal bases that add to their visual appeal. Contemporary tabletops are flat and, too, lack carvings or overly detailed hardware. Contemporary tables and desks are usually rectangular or round tables.

Drawing inspiration from tenets of mid-century modern design, contemporary tables and desks are typically constructed of the same durable, easy-to-manufacture materials, such as powder-coated steel or aluminum, solid wood, and plywood. Wood tables and wood desks may feature lacquered or stained oak or walnut wood legs with durably finished plywood, veneer, or linoleum tabletops. Metal tables and metal desks may have polished or powder-coated steel legs and tabletops; powder-coated steel tables and desks tend to be more colorful, as they can be powder-coated in numerous bright colors. While minimalist desks and tables may be composed of just one material throughout, some contemporary desks and tables combine multiple materials for a more durable and compelling construction.

How to Choose Contemporary Desks & Tables

Because contemporary tables is a vast category, it’s a good idea to start by narrowing your view by table function. If you’re looking for a minimalist dining table, shop dining tables. If you need a contemporary desk, shop home office desks. But don’t forget that some contemporary tables can have multiple applications throughout your home. If you have limited space, think about multipurpose tables. For example, some contemporary dining tables are large enough to hold both a dining setup and an office setup, and can be great options if you’re tight on space. Contemporary side tables, end tables, nightstands, and bedside tables tend to have very similar dimensions and silhouettes, and thus can be used interchangeably throughout the home. A pair of minimalist nightstands can also make a great set of living room end tables.

Keep in mind tables and desks with storage can come in handy, especially in smaller spaces without built-in storage components or other high-capacity storage furniture. A desk with drawers can be indispensable in an organized home office, and a nightstand with drawers or a removable tray top can make preparing for bed a breeze.

At HAY, shop contemporary tables and desks for every purpose: home office desks, side tables, dining tables, coffee tables, outdoor tables, and more.