16 or 18 Inch? Choosing the Right Size Round Pedestal Table

Short answer: choose the 16 inch round pedestal table for tight spots, such as beside an armchair, a bed or in a corner, and the 18 inch for a little more surface, such as beside a sofa or for a tea tray. Measure the gap first, and leave room to walk past. Sillanwali's green and yellow naqshi pedestal table is PKR 4,000.

What is a round pedestal table?

A pedestal table stands on a single central stem and foot rather than three or four legs. That makes it easy to tuck beside furniture, because there are no corner legs to knock with your feet.

The Naqshi Round Pedestal Green and Yellow Table is turned on the khraad from sheesham. The top is finished in layered lac and cut back by hand into a radiating naqshi pattern in green and yellow, and the stem and foot carry the same work. It's made in 16 and 18 inch sizes, measured across the top.

Naqshi Round Pedestal Green and Yellow Table→

If you're still deciding between a pedestal table and other styles, our guide on how to choose a naqshi side table compares the options. This post focuses on picking the right size.

how to choose a naqshi side table→

When does a 16 inch table fit best?

The 16 inch top suits places where space is tight:

• Beside an armchair, to hold a cup of chai and a phone.
• As a bedside table in a smaller bedroom.
• In a corner, with a small plant or a single decor piece.
• On a balcony or veranda, next to one chair.

It's easy to move from room to room, so it also works as a spare table when guests arrive.

When does an 18 inch table fit best?

The 18 inch top gives a little more room, which helps when:

• It sits beside a sofa and more than one person reaches for it.
• You want space for a small tray with cups and a plate of biscuits.
• It's a display spot for a lamp plus a smaller piece.
• It stands alone in a larger room, where a bigger top looks more balanced.

How do you measure your space?

Before choosing, take a tape measure to the spot:

• Measure the gap where the table will go. The top should fit with a little space on each side.
• Check walking room. Leave enough space to walk past comfortably, so nobody brushes the table.
• Compare heights. A side table usually looks right when its top sits close to the height of the sofa or chair arm next to it.
• Think about what it will hold. If it's for a tray or lamp, the larger top is safer.

If you're unsure, cut a circle of paper or cardboard at 16 and 18 inches across, and lay each on the floor in the spot. It's a quick way to see which one feels right.

How do you style it?

Green and yellow naqshi is bright, so keep what sits on it simple:

• One lamp, plant or decor piece lets the pattern show.
• Pair it with plain cushions that pick up the green or yellow.
• Use two tables either side of a sofa for a balanced look.

For ideas on bringing naqshi pieces together, see styling a drawing room with naqshi decor.

styling a drawing room with naqshi decor→

How do you care for it?

• Use a coaster under hot cups and glasses to protect the lacquer.
• Wipe spills straight away with a soft, dry cloth.
• Don't use water, sprays or polish on the top.
• Keep it out of strong, direct sun and away from heaters.

More tips are in how to care for lacquered wood.

how to care for lacquered wood→

Why does a turned top suit a radiating pattern?

Because the table top spins on the lathe while it's lacquered and cut, patterns that radiate from the centre come naturally to the process. Lines and bands follow the circle of the turning, so the whole top reads as one design spreading outward. That's why round naqshi tables so often carry this kind of pattern, and why it looks balanced from any side of the room.

Shop the round pedestal table

Naqshi Round Pedestal Green and Yellow Table: PKR 4,000, ready to ship, cash on delivery anywhere in Pakistan.

Shop now→