Outdoor side tables -- also known as occasional tables or coffee tables -- need to be repaired, replaced or updated every few years or so. Some are built to last, while others, including the one you picked up a couple years ago on sale at the corner drugstore, rust-out and fall apart after a season or two. A bit of advice: buy a side table that is built to last, is from a reputable retailer or manufacturer, and store it during the months when you won't be using it outside. Some styles do change from year to year, and we've found a few new looks among the classics for our 2012 patio side table picks.
Photo courtesy of PriceGrabberOur criteria for the yearly patio table selections include great design, quality, company or retailer reputation, consumer reviews, a representation of various styles and materials, and -- usually -- affordability. Tables are presented in alphabetical order. This go-with-everything end table is part of Caluco's San Michele outdoor collection. Made of durable, rust-resistant tubular aluminum in a powder-coated aluminum charcoal gray. A patio end table with sleek lines and European styling that requires no assembly and comes with a 10-year limited warranty. Measures 22" length x 22" width x 18" height.
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Photo courtesy of CB2Many of CB2's items are for indoor / outdoor use -- the Gear coffee table is one such piece. Made of lightweight steel, it will stand up to the elements outside or inside your home. Comes in a powder-coated yellow or industrial steel with a clear powder coat. Measurements: 42"w x 22" d x 14.5" height. Goes with several different decorating styles.
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Photo © FrontgateWhether you live in a coastal area or would like to, a seaside theme works well in a backyard wherever you call home. Frontgate's exquisite Seahorse Side Table is handcrafted to resemble stone but is an all-weather piece, for outdoors or in. The table is made of crushed stone, polyester resin, styrene and fiberglass, with a hand-applied natural finish that won't crack in cold temperatures.
The table top is 22 inches in diameter and is roomy enough for a beverage or two and a plate or book. Perfect for an afternoon in the sun, dreaming of a seaside vacation!
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Photo © Grandin RoadGrandin Road's Retro Squares is one of the collections featured in Pool and Patio's 2012 outdoor furniture highlights. The entire set is based on vintage Mid-century metal porch furniture and includes gliders, chairs and tables, including this handy round side table. Colors available are Red, White Aquatic (pictured) and Pear Green. Table measurements: 22 inches diameter x 20 inches height. Mix and match colors for a fun, unpredictable look!
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Photo courtesy of PriceGrabberA table that looks like a decorative item in your outdoor living space is a plus. Part of the Jubilee set, the rounded all-weather wicker side table features a glass table top to ensure anything upon which you set it will be steady. Use it with or without the other Jubilee woven pieces.
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Photo courtesy of KartellThe Bubble Club collection is made of plastic - aka polyethylene. While that fact may see rather unremarkable, it is noteworthy that the Bubble Club two-seater couch, armchair and new side table possess an industrial living room-chic and sensibility.
What this means is that the Bubble Club table and its co-horts can equally exist indoors and out. It can go from the balcony to the terrace to the living room to poolside and into the bedroom, and looks good in all its environments. And you have to admit -- you can't say that about every piece of outdoor furniture now, can you?
Other cool things? Bubble Club is designed by Philippe Starck and is eco-friendly. The table comes in white, pale grey, pale yellow, pale green, black and red.
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Photo courtesy of All ModernKingsley-Bate has been in the outdoor furniture business since 1938, starting out with teak patio furniture. The Culebra collection is all-weather wicker with a sturdy aluminum frame and comes in Textured Charcoal, but is available in special-order colors: Natural Brown, Sea Salt, Black and White.
The Culebra coffee table is 19 inches high and the table top is woven tightly enough to accommodate drinking glasses without spilling. However, if you prefer a glass surface, a piece of clear tempered glass that covers the table top is sold separately.
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Photo courtesy of WestminsterA round coffee table is easy to design around and makes a comfortable and informal setting. Westminster's solid round teak coffee table is big enough for a casual supper outdoors or relaxing with a chair pulled up and your favorite beverage within reach. Measuring 17 inches high and 40 inches in diameter, the Laguna table's gently tapered legs, rounded apron and clean lines make it a classic that will go with many types of outdoor seating. The Laguna teak table is meticulously hand-sanded to a micro-smooth finish and crafted from eco-friendly premium teak from sustainable plantations.
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