Here R some http://www.houzz.com/photos/living/condo-

Do you always need 2 side tables next to your coach or can you balance the look with a plant or something else?

There's no rule about having two side tables. If you can fit one and have a coffee table, that's just fine. Even without a coffee table, one side table is okay. It depends, though, on the room and how you use it. Without photos, this is the best we can advise.

U can balance with a plant or floor lamp. The problem is often good lighting for sofa. Here R alternative ideas.

It's nice to have a table on each side of the sofa for drinks, etc. I looked long and hard to find very narrow nesting tables for one side of the sofa...useful and not obtrusive. They are 12" wide and 22" long. We also had 3 high hats installed over the sofa so saved space by not needing lamps.