Monkey Side Table

A monkey side table is a playful statement piece that combines the practical function of an occasional table with the sculptural form of a monkey. Often designed with the animal supporting or appearing to hold the tabletop, this style brings humour, personality and an artistic quality to an interior.

One of the best-known interpretations is the Monkey Side Table designed by Jaime Hayon for BD Barcelona. The design combines a sculptural monkey form with a practical round tabletop and is made from architectural concrete in selected finishes. It is designed for both decorative impact and everyday use.

Quick Facts

• Monkey side tables combine furniture with sculptural animal-inspired design.
• They can work as practical occasional tables and decorative statement pieces.
• Popular materials include concrete, resin, stone, wood and metal.
• Suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, conservatories and covered outdoor spaces.
• Available in playful, luxury, contemporary and eclectic styles.
• Particularly effective when used as a conversation-starting accent.

Why It’s Popular

The appeal of a monkey side table comes from its ability to make furniture feel more expressive. Rather than being simply a surface beside a sofa or chair, the table becomes part of the room's personality.

Animal-inspired furniture has long been used in eclectic and luxury interiors because it introduces an element of surprise. A monkey design can bring a sense of humour without necessarily compromising sophistication, particularly when the finish is restrained and the surrounding furniture is elegant.

The Jaime Hayon design demonstrates this balance particularly well. Its sculptural monkey supports a round tabletop, turning an everyday side table into something that also resembles a piece of contemporary art.

Popular Styles

Sculptural Monkey Side Tables

These designs prioritise artistic form, making the table a visual focal point. They work especially well beside neutral furniture where the unusual silhouette can take centre stage.

Concrete Monkey Side Tables

Architectural concrete creates a substantial, contemporary appearance. The material can give a playful design a more sophisticated architectural quality.

Black Monkey Side Tables

Black finishes offer a dramatic interpretation and can work beautifully with modern interiors, dark timber and metallic accessories.

Gold Monkey Side Tables

Gold or antique-metal finishes create a more glamorous look. They are particularly effective in eclectic, maximalist and luxury interiors.

Monkey Side Tables with Glass Tops

Glass creates a lighter appearance and allows the sculptural base to remain the main feature of the piece.

Decorative Animal Side Tables

Monkey designs sit within a wider category of animal-inspired furniture. Elephant, bird, horse and other sculptural forms can create similarly distinctive decorative accents.

How to Choose

Start by considering the overall style of your room. A contemporary concrete monkey table can work beautifully in a minimalist setting, while an antique-brass or gold design may be better suited to a glamorous or eclectic interior.

Think about scale as well. Because the base is often sculptural, the table can have a stronger visual presence than a conventional side table of similar dimensions.

Consider the tabletop carefully. A round surface is practical beside seating and softens the unusual character of the base, while glass can create a lighter overall effect.

Finally, think about placement. A monkey side table is usually most effective when given enough surrounding space to be appreciated rather than hidden among numerous decorative pieces.

Styling Tips

Place a monkey side table beside a sofa, lounge chair or reading chair where its sculptural form can be easily appreciated. Keep the tabletop relatively uncluttered so the base remains visible.

For a sophisticated look, pair a sculptural monkey table with neutral upholstery, a textured rug and elegant lighting. The contrast between refined surroundings and playful furniture can create an especially interesting interior.

In an eclectic room, combine the table with artwork, decorative books, patterned cushions and collected accessories. This creates a more expressive atmosphere where the unusual furniture feels intentional.

If using a metallic monkey table, repeat the finish subtly through lamps, picture frames or decorative objects rather than matching every accessory.

Benefits at a Glance

• Statement-making: Creates an immediate focal point.
• Playful: Adds personality and a sense of humour.
• Functional: Provides useful surface space beside seating.
• Sculptural: Can be appreciated as furniture and decorative art.
• Versatile: Works with contemporary, eclectic and luxury interiors.
• Memorable: Provides an unusual talking point for guests.

Inspiration from Designer Brands

The strongest inspiration for the monkey side table comes from Jaime Hayon's playful approach to contemporary furniture. His BD Barcelona design demonstrates how an everyday table can become a sculptural object while remaining practical.

For a House of Isabella-inspired interior, Eichholtz can provide inspiration for glamorous statement furniture and decorative accessories, while Richmond Interiors can influence a more luxurious contemporary setting.

Gallery Direct can inspire eclectic combinations of decorative furniture and natural textures, while Uttermost offers ideas for incorporating distinctive sculptural pieces into sophisticated rooms.

The important principle is balance: let one playful statement piece provide personality while keeping the surrounding furniture and accessories relatively considered.

Common Questions

What is a monkey side table?

A monkey side table is an occasional table featuring a sculptural monkey or monkey-inspired base, combining practical surface space with decorative character.

Who designed the famous Monkey Side Table?

A well-known Monkey Side Table was designed by Spanish designer Jaime Hayon for BD Barcelona. The design uses a sculptural monkey form to support the tabletop.

What material are monkey side tables made from?

They can be produced in a variety of materials, including concrete, resin, wood, stone and metal. The Jaime Hayon design for BD Barcelona uses architectural concrete.

Where can I use a monkey side table?

It can work beside a sofa, armchair or bed, or as a decorative accent in a hallway, lounge or covered outdoor setting, depending on the specific construction and finish.

Are monkey side tables suitable for luxury interiors?

Yes. Their playful character can provide an effective contrast to sophisticated furniture, especially when combined with refined upholstery, marble, metallic finishes and elegant lighting.

Finishing Touch

A monkey side table is an excellent choice for anyone who wants furniture to have a little more personality. By combining useful surface space with a sculptural silhouette, it transforms an ordinary occasional table into a memorable decorative feature.

Whether you prefer architectural concrete, rich metallic finishes or a more playful decorative interpretation, the key is to give the piece room to stand out. Used thoughtfully, a monkey side table can bring humour, artistry and individuality to an otherwise sophisticated interior.

Disclaimer: House of Isabella is not affiliated with any third-party brands mentioned. All trademarks remain the property of their respective owners.