Air Side Table vs. Layer Side Table: Which to Choose

By Scandinavian Design & Timeless Interiors | Published: 2026-10-23

Category: Comparisons

Compare the Air and Layer side tables from Design House Stockholm. Learn which modern side table fits your space based on style, storage, and size.

Quick answer

Choose the Air side table if you want a light, open look with woven rattan and a semi-transparent feel. Choose the Layer side table if you prefer a minimalist, handleless design with hidden storage.

Style and visual impact

The Air side table pairs woven rattan with a semi-transparent look that balances contemporary and retro character. It feels open and airy, making it a natural fit for rooms where you want to maintain a sense of space.

The Layer side table uses a minimalist yet expressive form with geometrically exposed slits. The slits eliminate handles and reveal the hidden interior, creating a clean, sculptural silhouette that stands out on its own or against a wall.

Storage and accessibility

The Air side table's woven rattan surface offers a semi-transparent view of what's inside, which can be a design feature but also means items are partially visible. It works well for decorative objects or items you want to display.

The Layer side table's hidden storage is accessed via the geometric slits, keeping contents completely out of sight. This makes it ideal for stashing remotes, magazines, or other everyday items you prefer to keep tidy.

Size and placement

Both side tables are available in multiple versions, but the Air side table's open construction tends to feel less bulky in tight corners or next to low sofas. The Layer side table, with its solid-faced design, anchors a space more firmly and works well as a standalone accent piece.

Trade-offs at a glance

Air side table: open vs. private storage: The semi-transparent rattan weave means items inside are partially visible. Use it for decorative objects or things you want to display, not for hiding clutter.
Layer side table: hidden vs. accessible storage: The geometric slits keep contents completely out of sight but require reaching through the openings. Best for items you use less frequently or want to keep tidy.
Air side table: light vs. substantial presence: The open construction feels airy and less visually heavy, making it easier to place in tight spots or next to low furniture. It may not anchor a large room as strongly as a solid piece.
Layer side table: sculptural vs. space-saving: The solid-faced design creates a strong visual anchor but takes up more visual space. It works best as a standalone accent or against a wall, not in a cramped corner.

Product facts

Air: Air from Design House Stockholm is a sideboard that pairs woven rattan with a semi-transparent look, balancing contemporary and retro character. The open rattan weave keeps the piece visually light, making it a good choice for small or busy rooms where you don't want a heavy block of furniture.
Air
Layer: A minimalist yet unique expressive furniture piece that can stand alone or along a wall. The geometrically exposed slits does away with any handles and reveals the hidden gems inside. The handleless design and hidden storage give the Layer a clean, uncluttered look that works well in modern or minimalist interiors.
Layer

Which side table fits you?

Best for

Air side table: Anyone who wants a light, airy look with a retro touch and doesn't mind partially visible storage.
Layer side table: Anyone who prefers a minimalist, handleless design with hidden storage for a clean, uncluttered space.

Not for

Air side table: Not for those who need completely concealed storage or a solid, weighty presence.
Layer side table: Not for those who want a visually open piece or need quick, grab-and-go access to stored items.