When an interior designer wants to draw attention to a piece of furniture they use a simple trick; they 'frame' the piece to give it emphasis. A large sofa can be 'framed' by matching tables with beautiful lamps, a window is 'framed' by elaborate drapes, a fireplace is 'framed' by bookcases or shelves.
Tables are often seen as unimportant pieces, and used as part of the frame for other, larger pieces, but they can stand alone and even be the cornerstone of a room's design, emphasised by some sort of 'frame' of their own. Here are some examples:
Accent Side Tables
Curtains or Drapes.
A table standing below a window can be 'framed' by the window's drapes. Ideally the table should be lower than the window sill and no wider than the window itself. Set the table a little from the wall if you plan to draw the curtains. If the window is wide, a console table is ideal and can always double as a desk to save space in your room. A grand, floor length window 'treatment' of blinds, under curtains, drapes and a swag and tail valance will make a very grand frame for your table, but so will simple sheers in a beautiful color.
Plants or Topiaries
Where you have plenty of space, and want to draw attention to a decorative table, why not 'frame it' with a pair of topiaries? A simple ball or ball and cone is a sophisticated accent for a room and can be decorated with ribbons and ornaments during the Holidays. If your room is more informal, a couple of large green plants will do the trick. Choose pots in the accent color you have chosen for the room and add small up-lighters for maximum effect. If you're working to a strict budget, spend the money on the table, the topiaries can easily be made from components you'll find in your local craft store. You can also draw attention to your table with a flower arrangement. Echo the style of your room in the flowers, and use your accent colors in the arrangement.
Windows
Just as a table can look good framed by curtains, it can look great framed by windows. If you've a blank piece of wall between two, floor length windows, this is the ideal space for a table and a collection of ornaments, family photographs or a vase of flowers. Illuminate with a decorative lamp, this time designed to contrast with the walls, or, if you've space for a large plant or arrangement of flowers, use a spotlight or uplighter to add emphasis. A spotlight shining through large, variegated leaves, casting shadows on the ceiling, will give your room atmosphere in the evenings.
Wall Decor
No matter where your table is, you can draw attention to it by hanging some form of wall art above it. Mirrors add light and depth to a space, paintings and prints add character and color. Metal wall art of all kinds is extremely popular, and tapestries, once designed to decorate stark, stone walls, are now easy to find and economical. A Gothic style table against a tapestry hung wall will bring a touch of grandeur and fantasy to any home, but even modern interiors can benefit. If you find you've blown the budget on the table and have little left for the 'frame', buy a couple of inexpensive lamps from a DIY store and visit your local craft or fabric store. A small piece of bright fabric stretched over a frame will do very well until you find something better.
Take your time and choose your table well. It's the beginning of a beautiful, lifelong friendship.