This Clever Table Pulls Quadruple Duty in My Small Space

When I moved into my small apartment in New York last spring, I knew I’d have to make sacrifices in terms of furniture. There’s little square footage to work with, so if I didn’t want to overcrowd the space (and make it feel even smaller) then I had to let some things go in favor of truly functional pieces. That being said, I had given up on the idea of having an end table altogether; it just seemed like a “nice to have” item that wouldn’t justify the space it would take up in my already cramped living room. That all changed when I saw the Haworth Elements 4-Function Table while scrolling through my Instagram feed. 

It’s an end table, footstool, lap desk, and a standing desk in one sleek, space-saving piece — exactly the kind of multifunctional furniture I needed. Naturally, I leapt at the chance to try the Elements table in my own apartment — and after living with it for over a month, I’m ready to share my honest thoughts. 

The first thing I noticed about the Elements table was how solid and sturdy it is for such a sleek silhouette. I immediately positioned it at the end of my sofa, and its slim shape fit there perfectly. I found that it can be positioned with the flat side against the sofa, or flipped the other way (with the flat side facing out) to create some clever, concealed storage space between the table and couch. Pretty cool! 

The table also has two built-in cut-out handles to make moving it around the apartment easier. There are even tiny grooves in the handles that make holding it more comfortable. I also loved the table’s smooth bend and gently rounded corners — it’s incredibly soft on the eyes, despite its sturdy, hard material. I have the Moss colorway, which is a beautiful, deep green that complements my blue-green sofa and adds a bit of style and personality to the room. 

I’m constantly switching up things in my apartment to find new ways to make the space work for me, and I feel like the Elements table is tailor-made for that purpose. Its flexible design has been fantastic as an end table, and the 11.75-inch-deep surface area is more than enough space for a candle and a couple of drinks. I also find myself moving it to the front of my sofa so I can use it as a surface to paint my nails or send a quick email. 

When I work from home, I’m constantly moving between my desk, the couch, or, on some occasions, my bed (as a treat!), and the Elements table gives me a stable, flat work surface — no matter where I happen to be sitting that day. It sits at an ideal height, as it allows me to type comfortably without straining. And because it’s not resting on my lap but just over it, it’s totally stable; I can move my legs without disturbing my workspace. And when I work from my desk, I simply set the table on top to bring my laptop to standing height — no need for an expensive automatic standing desk here! Just be sure to double-check the table’s dimensions to confirm it’ll fit your desk (mine was just small enough to fit). 

While it’s definitely lighter compared to other tables I’ve seen, the Elements table isn’t exactly lightweight (although maybe my lack of upper-body strength is to blame!). The handles do make the table easier to move, though, and its heft is what makes it such a sturdy, stable piece, so I’m fine with it. 

Of all the table’s claimed uses, I was dubious about the footstool function. I didn’t think it would replace my coffee table, which is where my husband and I will usually kick up our feet while watching TV — but it’s actually so much more comfortable! It sits lower than my coffee table, so I still get the elevation I want without straining my legs or causing my knees to get stiff after 20 minutes. I personally don’t have the space underneath my desk to use it as a footstool there, but I could see how it would make sitting at a desk more comfortable — it certainly makes cozying up on my couch more enjoyable. 

If you live in a small space, then the Elements table’s compact, space-saving footprint is bound to save the day — especially if you value flexibility in your home (who wouldn’t?). It’s smart, stylish, and multipurpose — everything small-space furniture should be, if you ask me. If you have the budget to splurge $399, I think it’s totally worth it. 

Buy: Haworth Elements 4-Function Table, $399