You've no doubt heard the phrase "occasional tables" in every fine furniture store. But what exactly, are they? Do you really need them in a room and, if so, where and why?

Simply put, an occasional table is any small, portable table intended for a variety of purposes. That broad definition covers a wide variety of possibilities, but some of the most popular ones include:

Coffee or Cocktail Tables: Whether you refer to the table that fronts your sofa as a coffee table or a cocktail table, keep in mind that it's more than a place to set an occasional beverage or book. It's the perfect spot to create a dramatic display of accessories, giving some insight to your personal style.

End Tables: End tables unquestionably serve a practical purpose, providing a natural place for reading lamps. Be sure, though, that your tables are no more than 2-3 inches higher or lower than the arm of the nearby sofa or chair. And, don't feel compelled to make your end tables match. In this age of eclecticism, variety is the spice of life!

Sofa or Console Tables: This type of long slim table is, without a doubt, one of the most versatile. Use it behind a sofa (another great place to put reading lamps), along a wall strictly as a display space, or in the foyer as a drop off spot for mail and keys

Bedside Tables: Bedside tables might take the form of anything from skirted table rounds to more conventional storage chests. Here, too, however, the table on either side of your bed need not match; just make sure they're approximately the same height as the top of your mattress.