Whether you have a large house in the suburbs or your first small apartment, most of us are happy to find a little more space. Usually when we have friends and family in our homes, we need to find that little extra space on the floor, seats or table.

One way to maximize your space is to buy furniture that does double duty. You can also use furniture that contains built-in storage. But if you find that you can use more space on the table, nested tables are a good option.

Nested tables are a set of tables, usually two, three, or four. They are all different sizes, but the same proportions, and have bases that allow you to slide the smallest one under the next largest table, and that set of tables under the next largest. Place the largest table where you need an accent or side table, and then pull out the smaller tables when you need additional table space, for parties, holidays, or movie night.

When it comes to selecting nest tables, there are a few factors to consider. How “big” do you want a nest? Are you looking for a couple of tables, or do you want as many as a game can give you? Nest tables come in different shapes; round and square are typical, but you can find small triangles, just the right size to hold a drink, and larger rectangles that can act as a couple of console tables. What kind of space are you trying to fill? How do you want these tables to work for you?

Accent tables aren’t the only nesting tables you can find. If you want a little more seating space around your living room, you can find coffee tables that nest, but with ottomans or stools that you can pull out when you need a free seat. Simply slip under when the guests go home.

Nesting tables come in as many styles as any other piece of furniture you can buy. Do your tastes go traditional? You can find nesting tables in antique cherry and gilt oak, with turned legs and inlaid marble tops. Contemporary styles abound. Do you like molded glass, glass and metal, acrylic and geometric shapes? Do you prefer natural materials? You can find nesting tables with tops in leather, slate, stone, tile, and animal prints.

Nesting tables aren’t the only form of furniture that can do a lot of work in a little space. You can find many different types of multipurpose furniture that can help you when you’re looking to make the most of limited space. If you are looking for seats, you can look for storage benches. They combine a bench with a hinged top; They provide a deep space to store bulky items or come with cubby storage baskets that let you sort things you want close by.

Entryway trees are another versatile form of furniture that combine a storage bench with a high-back panel that is usually installed with coat and bag hooks, and a mirror for a quick glance at yourself before you leave the house. They can also incorporate some less conventional features, such as an umbrella stand, a desk for a home management center, outlets to charge your cell phone or laptop, cubbies for shoes, and upper cabinets or shelves for some located centrally but out. in the form of storage.

Consider these adaptable types of furniture nesting tables, storage benches, and hallway trees whenever you shop for home furnishings. It never hurts to make your choices work best for you.