Sofa console table is a quite small table so that it is very suitable for a sofa complement in the living room. This furniture can also be placed in a hallway or in the corner of a room. Because of its small size, a console table is really suitable for a minimalist house because it does not take many spaces. Moreover, most console tables are stylish so that it can be decorative furniture at your house. If you want to buy a console table, here are some tips to choose the most suitable and proper one for your house
Figure Out What You Will Store in the Console Table
Before you buy a console table, figure out first the function of the furniture. Whether you want it only to be a part of decorations or you want to use it as storage as well. If you want to put some objects on the console table such as photo frames, table lamps, or flower vases, make sure the console table is large enough for those things. Do not place this furniture closely against the wall because it will ruin the look of your interior design.
Know the Style of Your House First
Make sure the console table you are interested to buy matches with other furniture at your house or living room. A sturdy and big console table is definitely not suitable to be placed in a modern minimalist living room. Instead, it will be better if you choose a thin metal console table or a simple glass console table with a contemporary style for your modern minimalist living room.
Match the Console Table with Your Living Room
The next tip is matching the console table with your living room. A console table is able to be a brilliant fashion statement in your living room. So, make sure you choose the one that matches all of the furniture in the room. For instance, a bright or colorful console table is not suitable to be combined with dark furniture. Choose a console table which its colors can complete the style of your living room so that harmonious interior design can be created.
Placing the Console Table
It is also important to determine the area where you will place the console table. Because it will influence the size and the model of the console table. You can choose a small and simple console table if you want to fill an empty corner area in your living room. But if you want to display your vase collections, you can choose the sturdy and large one to be placed in the hallway or foyer. Just make sure the console table does not limit your move at your own house.
Those are the tips to choose the most suitable and proper console table for your house or living room. If you want to decorate your living room with a console table, you can combine it with paintings, decorative mirrors, or photo frames which are hung above the sofa console table.
Guide to Using a Console Table in Any Room
All you need to understand about a console table, from their definition, how to decorate them, and where to place them.
Console tables are incredibly versatile pieces of furniture that can fulfill various needs. Whether you want extra storage near the entrance, a focal point behind a sectional sofa, or a decorative accent in the dining room.
What exactly is a console table?
A console table is a long, narrow table, usually the height of a dining table, typically used in an entryway, living room, or dining room.
The term “console table” is believed to have originated from the French word ‘consolide,’ meaning “to strengthen or reinforce.” This is due to the design of the original console tables in 17th-century France, which had a tabletop slab supported by two wall brackets and two scroll-shaped legs.
Console tables have transformed into stand-alone furniture items and no longer rely on wall brackets, gaining an additional pair of legs. This allows for more freedom in placement, as they can be positioned without being permanently fixed in one spot. Their slim shape makes them suitable for narrow spaces.
But what exactly is a console table and where should it be placed?
Slender, stylish, and functional for storage, console tables are a flexible addition to any area. Now, let’s discuss their uses and how to decorate a console table to add visual interest to empty corners of your home.
A console table is a long and narrow piece of furniture often placed against a flat surface, such as a wall or behind a sofa. Typically, they are standalone pieces used to enhance empty hallways and bare walls. With the right placement and styling, console tables can serve as beautiful accent features.
Some console tables come with built-in drawers or shelves for additional storage options. Their open design often means that your items will be on display to your guests, whether you choose to keep everyday essentials within reach or use them to showcase your favorite decorative accessories.
How is a console table utilized?
A console table is useful near an entrance as the extra tabletop space provides a convenient place to set keys and mail. Entryway consoles are often paired with a mirror for quick touch-ups before leaving the house.
In a dining room, they are commonly used as sideboards to display serving platters, functioning as a buffet.
They also make a great addition to a living room, providing an extra surface for a lamp, books, and decor. Console tables are sometimes known as sofa tables when placed behind a sofa, often with a pair of matching lamps for a traditional look.
Is there an average height for a console table?
Typically, console tables are about 30 inches tall.
How does a console table differ from a side table?
The primary distinction between consoles and side tables lies in their placement: consoles are typically positioned against a wall or flat surface, while side tables are often found flanking a sofa or armchair.
Consoles are usually wider and taller, making them both decorative and functional. Side tables tend to be more practical, holding items within easy reach of living room seating, such as lamps, cups, glasses, and books.
A side table is small and provides a place to place a drink next to a sofa or chair. A console table can accommodate numerous items (especially if it includes shelves) and is sometimes adaptable enough to be utilized as a desk in a home office setup (just grab a seat) either beneath a TV mounted on the wall or positioned on a stand.
Where are console tables utilized?
Dining area
Utilizing a console table in a dining area is practical when the room is spacious enough to justify an additional furniture piece. I’ve witnessed numerous dining areas with console tables crammed in when there’s actually not enough space for them — or any specific necessity. We’re all familiar with the urge to fit in a piece of furniture we adore, regardless of whether there’s ample space for it. Or perhaps we come across a photo on Pinterest and feel compelled to have that piece in our homes – no matter what. Keep in mind that even the most exquisite console table won’t look good unless there is sufficient space.
What does a console table bring to a dining space?
A console table provides a valuable additional surface for placing lighting and home décor items.
Most rooms can benefit from ambient lighting in the form of table lamps, and without a console, a dining room is illuminated solely by overhead pendant(s) or recessed lights. Incorporating soft light with shaded lamps is the best way to create a sense of intimacy in any dining space.
How to arrange a table in a dining space
Arranging a dining room console should be kept simple. If the console and room are spacious, a pair of matching gourd lamps with ample shades and a striking piece of art or round mirror will create an elegant look.
If your space has a more contemporary feel, a lower console table in a Mid-Century Modern style will provide the desired look. Adorn it with an intriguing lamp and a large square piece of abstract art. Regardless of your style, leave the console top mostly empty, as you’ll want the space for serving food at your next gathering.
Entryways
Entryways can be challenging. Many of us have entries that simply cannot accommodate a console table due to their size. However, if you have the space (at least 48” of wall space is ideal), then you can likely fit an entry console into your home.
Ensure that there is enough space in front of the door (typically around 18 inches deep for most consoles). You’ll want to ensure that you can fully open and close your front door without coming into contact with the console. If 18” deep is a tight squeeze, search for an ultra-narrow console table (yes, they do exist!). We’ve seen them at 12” — or even less.
What does a console table bring to an entryway?
The entryway console table is a pragmatic stopover for keys, dog leashes, mail and any other random items that enter your home on a daily basis. Apart from its functionality, the entry console serves as the introduction to your home, a gracious statement that one has arrived. It can be somewhat unsettling to walk directly into a room with no vestibule or entryway. Even if you believe you don’t have room for a console, get out your tape measure and start measuring. You might just surprise yourself!
Suggestions for decorating a table in an entryway
I strongly advocate placing a large round mirror over an entry console. This is the perfect spot for a quick hair and makeup check. Guests will appreciate it when they can quickly check themselves upon entering your party as well. As with a dining console, leave some empty space on top for an unexpected bouquet of flowers.
Bedroom
Console tables in the bedroom can serve as an alternative to a dresser or can be used to hold a TV screen on a stand or beneath a mounted TV.
In a spacious primary bedroom, a console table can occupy an extra wall when a dresser is already in use. It can hold additional lighting or decorative items. If the console table has shelves, it can also store mementos or extra pairs of shoes in attractive storage boxes if closet space is limited.
Benefits of having a console table in a bedroom
A console table in the bedroom can help create a cozy atmosphere. For example, if the console has an open frame, a large basket with extra throws and pillows can be added. Additionally, placing an ottoman or stool beneath it and a round mirror above can transform the console into a vanity.
How to decorate a table in the bedroom
Due to its versatility, a bedroom console table can also function as a makeshift desk. By adding a chair, a laptop can easily find a place for some work-from-home sessions. For maximum comfort, make sure to select a console table with open space underneath and a height of 30”. Completing the setup with a desk lamp makes it ready for any task.
Living room
If you have sufficient space for a specific purpose, a console table is a fitting addition to a living room. However, attempting to incorporate a console table into a small space is usually not ideal.
It’s crucial to plan carefully and ensure that the console table fulfills the space and purpose criteria. Congratulations are in order if these criteria are met!
Benefits of having a console table in a living room
In a living room, a console table serves various functions. It can be used for stylish decor, to display books and collections, to provide additional lighting, and to serve as a base for a TV. If the console is solely for media purposes, it’s best to keep the top clear. Alternatively, for console tables with shelves resembling bookcases, a blend of decorative accessories can create a stylish look.
Ideas for styling a table in a living room
In my own living room, the console table holds a vintage table lamp, a stack of three coffee table books, a vase, a candle, and a foo dog sculpture. I arranged these items at different heights, creating visual balance. A 1970s framed poster of Miles Davis hangs above the table. I recommend any similar decor combinations that suit your style, whether it’s transitional, eclectic, modern farmhouse, BoHo, or Mid Century modern.
Console table styling tips
- Embrace your style
When possible, try to match wood tones to achieve a cohesive look. However, this is not a strict rule. For newcomers to interior design, it’s advisable to closely match materials. On the other hand, experienced decorators can mix materials while maintaining an overall look and feel.
In my home, I have various wood tones, but they are tied together by a warm red and blue color palette, creating a seamless flow from room to room.
Experimenting and mixing materials while maintaining a consistent style profile can yield unique results that reflect your personality. Don’t hesitate to experiment because if you don’t like the outcome, you can always modify it to suit your taste.
- Consider your console table decorations
When it comes to styling a console table, I enjoy arranging large books, intriguing decor pieces, sculptures, candles in holders or glass containers, flower bouquets or branches, vases, trays, and baskets. It’s also practical to include items like mail sorting stands and key bowls. In a bedroom, you could display framed photos and a jewelry box. In a dining room, I would place a large bowl of fruit or a clear vase of leafy branches.
- Position a console table behind a sofa
Console tables can also be used behind a sofa, which works well if your sofa is placed in the middle of a room rather than against a wall.
For a traditional look, the table should match the exact height of the sofa back. Measure the back of the sofa (excluding the height of pillows or back cushions) to determine the appropriate height.
For a modern style, a lower console table is more suitable—especially if it has shelving for books. Sleek profiles complement modern rooms, so opting for a lower table is a good choice.
- Select a console table that matches the height of your sofa
If you intend to use a console table as a sofa table, make sure to check its height in comparison to the back of your sofa before making a purchase.
The key rule for sofa tables is that they should not be taller than the sofa back. Ideally, the table should be the same height as your seating to create a seamless transition or one to two inches shorter if an exact match is hard to find.
- Utilize for storage in entryways
For entryway console tables, it’s practical to choose storage baskets or trinket dishes. These are perfect for holding keys, wallets, and other essentials as you enter your home.
A beautiful wicker basket is a great choice for neatly containing any clutter.
- Opt for symmetrical or asymmetrical styling
When styling your console table, you can choose between symmetrical or asymmetrical designs.
Symmetrical – Arrange similarly sized and shaped accessories at equal distances from each other on your table to create visual balance. Table lamps, vases, and coordinating candle holders are commonly selected to complement a console table. Place a framed print and a stack of books in the center to complete the look.
Asymmetrical – For an asymmetrical design, vary the size and shape of your accessories and place them in a way that doesn’t mirror each other to achieve a relaxed, effortless feel. Group three objects together rather than placing them individually and spaced out to create an asymmetrical look.
- Use a console table to balance a large wall feature
To prevent a visually heavy appearance with accessories on the console table, balance it out by positioning a large wall feature above it.
Whether it’s a print, wall hanging, or mirror, a sizable structure above your console will help balance the space.
As consoles can be quite angular, a round mirror positioned above it can create an aesthetically pleasing contrast.
- Layer items to create dimension
Vary the sizes of the items you use to decorate the top of your console table. If you choose accessories that are all similar in shape, the console can appear flat and lack depth.
Layer tall, small, wide, and thin decorations to create a well-balanced display.
Lamps, taper candles, and prints can add height, while a stack of books and small vases can introduce a variety of shapes.
- Pay attention to the space around your console table
Remember that styling a console table includes considering the space around it, not just what goes on top of it.
Placing a tall floor lamp or potted plant on one side of your console table can enhance an asymmetrical design even further.
Take a step back to consider the entire display, including the surrounding space. Avoid placing more than one item on the floor around it to prevent a cluttered look.