Make the Most of a Console Table
Set up your entry for a dramatic (and useful) welcome
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.
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.
Use symmetry. Symmetry always adds balance to a space, especially with a long console table like this one.
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.
Use the space underneath. Use the space under the table for a sculpture, interesting basket or stack of books.
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.
The space underneath can often hold stools and ottomans.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Add height with objects. The heights of the mirror and the tall hurricanes draw the eye up from this lower cabinet.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Use a piece with more depth in a vast foyer. This Parisian-style desk can stand up to the large scale of this entryway.
Flank a console with sconces. This adds symmetry and lights up the space.
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
Learn more styling secrets from interior designers and decorators
Next: See more photos of consoles in interior design
Learn more styling secrets from interior designers and decorators
Next: See more photos of consoles in interior design
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