Furniture · Practical guide
High tables and side tables: choose by height and purpose
Setting down a drink during a break and working on a laptop are different tasks. Before choosing a high table or side table, decide whether people will stand or sit and what they need within reach.
Same top, different heights
SICO lists the Socializer Sit-A-Round Round with a 36 in diameter top (about 91 cm) and a 29 in height option (about 74 cm). The Stand-A-Round Round has the same diameter and a 41 in height (about 104 cm). Request the full version name as well as the diameter.
To pair the table with a stool, compare seat height and depth, the footrest and clearance below the tabletop. Consider the support needs of the people using it; catalog height alone cannot establish a comfortable fit.
A short break and a working session need different space
For a short gathering, explain whether people will set down drinks and light materials. For check-in, demonstrations or laptop work, describe duration and the space required. A side table also needs to work with the lounge chair or other seat beside it.
Describe the objects and intended task. For a monitor or other equipment, request a solution and documentation intended for that purpose. Do not assume compatibility from tabletop size or add improvised fixings.
Confirm finish, base and delivery
The base may occupy a different footprint from the top and affect how chairs approach it. Request the full drawing, finish and transport configuration. For adjustable or folding furniture, the supplier should identify the version and provide its instructions.
Tell the venue how the tables will arrive and provide dimensions for access review. If AV equipment will be used with them, include the items and accessories in the same request so the technical team knows what surface and connections are needed.
Folding and adjustment: request instructions for the actual unit
SICO’s Socializer manual provides separate instructions for rotating the top, adjusting the column on dual-height versions and using caster brakes. Ask the supplier to identify the delivered version and its manual. Folding tables do not all use the same mechanism.
Agree who will deliver the furniture ready for use, who will change its position and who will remove it. Use and locking must follow the exact model’s instructions. If a control, label or mechanism does not match the documentation, ask the supplier to resolve the difference before use.
Report a missing part, a lock that does not engage or unexpected movement to the supplier and request a remedy or replacement. Do not bypass the lock, improvise a fixing or modify the mechanism. Record the condition and response so the organizer can confirm any furniture change.
Describe the activity before choosing a height
A photo or sketch can explain the idea even before a model is selected. Tell us how the table will be used; its dimensions and seating pairing can then be reviewed with the specification sheets.
- What are the date, city and venue?
- Is the table for a break, demonstration, reception or laptop work?
- Will people stand, sit or alternate between the two, and for how long?
- Which items need to go on the table, and which will be used together?
- Have stools or other seats been selected? Share any available photo or specification sheet.
- Do you have a reference for the appearance, a photo of the space or a sketch?
- Who is supplying the tables and coordinating delivery, position changes and pickup?
- Would you like to discuss rental, purchase or video and audio support for the activity?
Download the inquiry worksheet (TXT)
To record model dimensions and documentation, use the technical worksheet (CSV).
Frequently asked questions
Can a high table be used while seated?
A compatible seat may be an option, but both models and the intended use need review. Include support needs and seated alternatives in the inquiry.
How high is a side table?
The name does not establish a height. Request the model’s measurement and compare it with the seat, task and objects it will serve.
Can I keep the same cover if the table model changes?
Give the cover supplier the new table model, height, diameter and base shape. Ask them to confirm the cover reference and attachment intended for that table. Even if the diameter matches, keep that confirmation open until the supplier responds.
Who adjusts or folds the table during the event?
Agree this with the supplier before delivery and name a contact for those changes. The designated person needs the model’s instructions. If the instructions do not match the delivered unit, ask the supplier to resolve that before use.
Video and audio for this space
Tell us whether the table will serve a talk, demonstration or informal gathering with audio.
Reference documentation
Related event planning guides
Coordinate with the hotel or venue
Tell us whether people will stand or sit
Send a photo or sketch and tell us whether people will stand or sit. Include the duration, objects planned for the table and any seating already selected. If the table is part of a presentation or demonstration, describe its video and audio needs.
Discuss my event