The Stylish Console Table: A Focal Point for Your Entryway

The console table is often an overlooked piece of furniture, but it can add major style and function to your home's entryway or hallway. This long, low table sitting behind your sofa or against a wall serves as a spot to drop your keys when you walk in the door and can help you organize the family clutter.

What is a Console Table?

A console table, also known as an entryway table or sofa table, is typically long and narrow with a base that rests directly on the floor. The sleek, minimalist tbrable often sits behind a couch or next to an entryway to hold lamps, books, flowers and other decor. Console tables range in style from simple metal hairpin legs supporting a rustic wood top to intricately carved vintage legs holding up polished marble.

Where Should You Put a Console Table in Your Home?

The most common place for a console table is behind a sofa or sectional. Situate it a few inches behind the couch so it doesn’t block walkways. You can also use it to define spaces and pathways in open concept homes, like behind the dining table to separate the kitchen and living room. Console tables are a perfect fit for tight entryways since they don’t take up much room but still offer storage and display space.

Styling Your Console Table

When styling your console table, think layers. Start with larger decor items like vases, baskets or artwork on the ends to frame the table. Add medium-sized objects like stacks of books, candles or small plants down the center. Finally, sprinkle in small decor like trays, bowls and framed photos to finish the look. Incorporate height by using decorative boxes, cake stands and risers for different levels.

Console Table Materials and Styles

Console tables come in a range of materials like wood, metal, marble, glass, concrete and more. Wood console tables can feature reclaimed barn wood, oak, walnut or pine in natural, white washed and espresso stains. Metallic hairpin legs paired with wood or marble tops are trendy in modern and minimalist homes. Concrete and acrylic console tables add an edgy, industrial vibe.

Top Console Table Styles:

• Midcentury modern with tapered wood legs and clean lines
• Rustic farmhouse style with an oak top and metal base
• Traditional with carved details on the apron and cabriole legs
• Modern and sleek with a polished stone top on slim metal legs
• Vintage or antique with ornate details and a distressed patina

FAQs about Console Tables

What is the standard size for a console table?

Console tables typically range from 30 to 60 inches long and 12 to 18 inches deep. Standard heights sit between 28 and 34 inches tall. Slim console tables around 12 inches deep can fit in tight spaces.

How much weight can a console table hold?

Many quality console tables can hold 50 pounds or more. Check the manufacturer specs if you need one that can handle heavier items like large vases and decor. Some metal and wood console tables can hold 100+ pounds.

Where should I put a console table with a mirror?

Console tables with mirrors work well situated behind a couch to make small spaces appear larger. Put one near your home's entrance so you can grab keys and check your appearance as you head out the door.

What can I use instead of a console table?

If you don't have room for a full console table, try a floating shelf, small entryway table or even a desk positioned behind your couch. You can find narrow console tables around 12 inches wide for tight spaces.

Adding a console table to your home is an easy way to incorporate stylish storage and display space. With the variety of sizes, materials and designs available, you can find the perfect console table to suit your home's style and needs.