A console table is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve both functional and decorative purposes in any space. Whether placed in an entryway, living room, or hallway, styling a console table allows you to express your personal aesthetic while maintaining practicality. With the right combination of items, you can transform this simple surface into a stunning focal point that enhances the overall appeal of your home.
In this blog post we will show you how to style a console table so that it functions properly. Read on to learn more about which components and tools are needed for the job as well as detailed instructions on completing the task!
Why Style a Console Table?
Styling a console table is about more than just aesthetics—it serves multiple purposes that make it a valuable addition to your home. A well-styled console table can elevate your interior design, creating a cohesive and inviting atmosphere.
It provides an opportunity to showcase your personality with decorative accents like vases, books, and art pieces, while also offering practical functionality for everyday use. Whether it’s serving as an entryway catch-all or a decorative anchor for a living room, a thoughtfully arranged console table helps to combine beauty and practicality in your space.
Understanding the Purpose of a Console Table
A console table serves as both a functional and aesthetic piece of furniture in any home. Its versatility allows it to adapt to various spaces, whether placed in an entryway, hallway, living room, or even a bedroom. Beyond its decorative potential, a console table can provide storage for items such as keys, mail, or other essentials when located in an entryway, helping to keep your space organized.
In a living room, it can act as a stylish surface for displaying treasured items, acting as a subtle focal point. The purpose of a console table is to seamlessly blend practicality with design, making it a thoughtful addition to a well-curated home.
10 Methods How to Style a Console Table
1. Start with a Statement Mirror or Artwork
The first step in styling your console table is to choose a focal point. One of the most popular options is to hang a statement mirror or a piece of artwork above the table. Mirrors not only add elegance and reflect light, making a space feel bigger, but they also serve as a perfect decorative element. Choose a mirror with a unique frame—whether ornate, sleek, or minimalist—that complements the style of your room. Alternatively, an oversized painting or a gallery wall with framed art pieces can create a visual center for the table, drawing attention to the space while setting the tone for the rest of the room.
2. Incorporate Greenery with Plants
Adding plants to your console table can bring life and vibrancy to the space. A couple of well-placed plants—either fresh or faux—can soften the hard edges of the table and introduce a touch of nature. Opt for a mix of sizes, such as a large potted plant at the center with smaller succulents or herbs on the sides. Choose plants with different textures, from trailing vines to compact succulents or leafy greens, depending on the mood you want to create. Ceramic or metallic planters can add further character to the décor. Greenery not only enhances the aesthetic but also improves air quality, making your home feel more inviting.
3. Use Books to Add Height and Interest
Books are a versatile styling tool that can add height and visual interest to your console table. Stack a few coffee table books with interesting covers or subjects that reflect your personality or interests. Not only do books serve as decorative items, but they also tell a story. If you want to add a layered effect, arrange the books in varying heights and angles.
You can even use books as a base to display other objects, such as small sculptures, candles, or decorative trays. For a modern and sleek look, you could opt for minimalist books with monochromatic covers, while for a more eclectic design, you can mix and match vibrant, colorful books.
4. Incorporate Sculptures and Decorative Objects
Sculptures, vases, and other decorative objects can add a unique touch to your console table. A statement sculpture, whether contemporary or traditional, draws the eye and creates a focal point. If you prefer a more eclectic style, mix and match various objects, such as a vintage clock, decorative bowls, or a set of candlesticks. Choose items that are proportionate to the size of the table to avoid overcrowding. A single piece of artwork or a collection of objects can create balance and visual harmony. Sculptural pieces made of materials such as brass, ceramic, or glass can also add texture and depth to the space.
5. Add Lighting with Table Lamps or Candles
Lighting is essential for creating ambiance, and the addition of table lamps or candles on your console table can instantly elevate its look. A pair of table lamps with interesting bases or shades can add symmetry and brighten up the room. If you prefer a more relaxed and warm atmosphere, opt for candles. Place them in decorative holders or lanterns to add a touch of sophistication and warmth. A set of candles in varying heights can create visual interest and balance, especially if you place them in clusters along one side of the table or in an evenly spaced arrangement. For extra flair, choose candles with aromatic scents that match the atmosphere you’re trying to create.
6. Use a Decorative Tray for Organization
A decorative tray is both functional and stylish, offering an easy way to keep your console table organized while adding visual interest. Place a tray in the center of the table and arrange small decorative items like candles, small vases, or a bowl. A tray can help to organize items without overwhelming the table, creating a neat, tidy look.
Choose a tray that complements the material and finish of your console table, whether it’s metal, wood, or mirrored glass. You can also use the tray to display personal items, such as keys, sunglasses, or a small collection of interesting artifacts.
7. Create a Balanced Look with Symmetry
Symmetry is a key design principle that can create a harmonious and balanced look when styling a console table. To achieve symmetry, place two identical items on either side of the table. This could be a pair of table lamps, matching vases, or identical plants. Symmetry helps to create a clean, orderly feel, especially in more formal or minimalist spaces. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, eclectic vibe, you can create balance with asymmetry by varying the size and height of the objects while ensuring they still complement each other.
8. Incorporate Personal Touches
A console table offers a great opportunity to showcase your personality and make the space feel uniquely yours. Personal touches such as framed family photos, heirlooms, or special mementos can make the table feel more inviting and homey. These items also tell a story and add a layer of warmth to the space. Choose frames in materials that complement the overall aesthetic of your room, whether they’re rustic wooden frames, sleek metal ones, or even vintage designs. Displaying personal items like travel souvenirs or handmade pottery can also make your console table feel more eclectic and lived-in.
9. Consider the Scale of Your Items
When styling a console table, it’s essential to pay attention to the scale of the objects you’re placing on it. Large pieces, such as oversized vases or sculptures, should be balanced by smaller items to avoid overwhelming the table. On the other hand, too many small objects can create a cluttered look. To create a balanced arrangement, use a combination of varying sizes, with larger items placed in the center and smaller items flanking the edges. Grouping items of similar height or visual weight can also help to maintain proportion.
10. Add Texture with Fabrics and Accessories
To add depth and warmth to your console table, consider incorporating fabric elements such as decorative cloths, runners, or woven baskets. A fabric runner can add a pop of color or pattern to the table, creating visual contrast against the hard surface of the table. Woven baskets can be placed underneath the table for additional storage, keeping the tabletop clear and tidy while adding texture and natural elements. Fabric accessories like coasters or small pillows can further enhance the overall aesthetic, tying together the various components of the room.
Conclusion
Styling a console table is a creative process that allows you to express your taste while making the space more functional and visually appealing. By carefully considering elements like artwork, lighting, books, and decorative objects, you can create a table arrangement that complements your home’s overall style.
Whether you prefer a minimalist look with clean lines or a more eclectic arrangement with varied textures and colors, a well-styled console table serves as a beautiful focal point and a reflection of your personal style. Thanks for reading our blog post on how to style a console table! We hope you found it helpful and informative.