Make the Most of a Console Table
Set up your entry for a dramatic (and useful) welcome
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta that I'll describe as "collected."
I got into design via Landscape Architecture, which I studied at the University of Virginia. I've been writing about design online for quite a few years over at Hatch: The Design Public Blog.
Houzz Contributor. Hi There! I currently live in a 1920s cottage in Atlanta... More »
Lately console tables have been commanding my attention. Most often seen in entryways, they provide the perfect spot to set the tone for your home — and add style you can enjoy the second you walk in the door. Of course we also love their functionality; they can add light, provide storage, and ensure you'll always know where your keys are. Let's take a look at how you can arrange these tables to create welcoming spaces.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Pair with a mirror. A mirror with an interesting frame adds style and gives you a great spot to check your face before you dash out the door.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Use symmetry. Symmetry always adds balance to a space, especially with a long console table like this one.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Flank the table with chairs. It's a great solution for where to put those extra chairs you only use when your dining room table has the leaf in, and it's the perfect spot for doing that Mr. Rogers thing with your shoes when you walk in the door. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Use the space underneath. Use the space under the table for a sculpture, interesting basket or stack of books.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This particular design really plays with proportion. On paper, I wouldn't think this oversized sculpture would work with this slender table, but it does work. Don't be afraid to experiment.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| The space underneath can often hold stools and ottomans. |
by Amy Lau Design
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Don't feel stuck inside the traditional console-table box. A cabinet or chest or drawers can also fit the bill.
Side note: This is a lesson in excellent interior photography. Mirrors can be tricky, but all this one reflects in this shot is a painting that adds to the scene. I also like the way it's composed with the light fixture cut off at the top of the image and the rug cut off on the bottom corner.
Side note: This is a lesson in excellent interior photography. Mirrors can be tricky, but all this one reflects in this shot is a painting that adds to the scene. I also like the way it's composed with the light fixture cut off at the top of the image and the rug cut off on the bottom corner.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
This cabinet, used in the spirit of the console table, sets the tone for the rest of the house, letting visitors know that there are a lot of exotic touches to see here.
Anchor the ends with a pair of table lamps. This will add light to the space and give you a jumping-off point for adding other items.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Create a landing zone. This table has drawers on top and baskets underneath for throwing those "in and out the door" items like your keys, wallet, mail and shoes. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Don't despair if you have a narrow hallway. Even a tight space can handle a shallow table. This setup turns what could have been a humdrum hallway into a glamorous space.
by Amy Lau Design
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Go beyond the foyer. Don't have an actual entryway? (Don't feel bad, I don't either.) You can still use the console strategy along a wall in a living room. It also translates nicely to the way you might set up the top of a sideboard or buffet in your dining room.
by Global Living
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Add height with objects. The heights of the mirror and the tall hurricanes draw the eye up from this lower cabinet.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Punch up a wall. This Chinoiserie table adds color and personality to this eclectic hallway. It's also functional; the lamp provides reading light to the windowseat next to it. |
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Ground a piece of art. As seen in many of the photos here, a console table is a great way to give a work of art a base, so it's not just lost on a sea of drywall. |
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Use material to tie things together. A primitive table mixes with a carved sculpture, intricately carved mirror and exotic embellished boxes — all tied together by a common material.
by Sylvia Martin
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Let a table with exotic style inspire your collection. There is a wide variety of items all around this intricate Asian table, from a palm tree to gorgeous paintings; a Buddha to a golden horse. Somehow it all works.
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Use a piece with more depth in a vast foyer. This Parisian-style desk can stand up to the large scale of this entryway.
| Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
|
| Flank a console with sconces. This adds symmetry and lights up the space. |
by Cristi Holcombe
»
Like it? Save it to your Ideabook »
Imitate the tablescapes you see around Houzz! When I asked this designer about arranging objects on a console she gave me some good advice: "The easiest way is to group things in threes, and I also create visual triangles and balance." — Cristi Holcombe
Next: See more photos of consoles in interior design
Next: See more photos of consoles in interior design
Comments
UPSTAGING YOUR HOMES another great feature! Thank You!!
2 years ago · Like
msjayque I love this ideabook Becky.
2 years ago · Like
newmouse Lots of good ideas here. Thanks.
2 years ago · Like
sydneytoo I'm inspired! Thanks!
2 years ago · Like
villa_175 nice ideas
2 years ago · Like
CJ Sebert Great idea book!
2 years ago · Like
debleavy Far from being "lost on a sea of drywall," the large paintings shown in this idea book could be appreciated if allowed to stand alone. Obscuring them with lamps and other objects makes that impossible. Sorry, Becky, I'm usually a fan, but I think you missed the boat on these.
2 years ago · Like
Ellen Reed Beautiful.....all of them....smiles
2 years ago · Like
Reena some I love... others are blah !
2 years ago · Like
Diana White Fabulous
18 months ago · Like
Ideabook updated on June 15, 2012.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
basements · bedrooms · dining rooms · entries · family rooms · garage and sheds · halls · home offices · landscapes · laundry rooms · powder rooms · wine cellars and more.
