An inconvenient and underutilised space can be completely transformed with a well designed and decorated console table. What’s more, once belonging only to hallways and entryways, the console table is now widely used throughout all types of room!
Decorating a console table can do wonders for your room decor. But, it can be tough knowing how to decorate your console table to suit your interior. We’ve put together our top 7 ways to decorate a console table to get your off to a running start.
What is a console table?
A console table is a table with a top surface supported by corbels or brackets as opposed to the four legs. Console tables are often seen as a hybrid between a table and shelf and are frequently placed next to walls.
In the 17th and 18th-century console tables played a crucial role in interior design, particularly in European countries such as in Italy and France. Originally, console tables served little purpose in functionality being reserved as a decorative addition to hallways or entryways. But, over time, they have evolved into practical pieces of furniture whilst maintaining their decorative characteristics.
1. Space awareness
Image source: Atkin & Thyme
Before you can think about decorating your console table, you need to understand the space you are working with. Measure the area you have available to get a feel of the size table you need. Making sure you’ve got the right measurements is an essential first step to ensure you create the right impression of your home. A table that is too big can quickly make the space feel cramped and unwelcoming. Likewise, if you choose a console table that is too small, it can look out of place and overwhelmed by the size of your room.
If your console table has shelves, make sure you are aware of the weight-bearing limits. It is also a good idea to know the height of your table before you purchase decorations.
2. Add lighting
Adding a light source such as a table lamp or a small light ornament onto your console table not only allows for a brighter room, but it also gives your console table a functional purpose. The addition of lighting is particularly vital in a hallway or entryway, as typically the only other light source is the ceiling light. Remember, that the inclusion of extra light in your home decor can create the illusion of extra space and a warm ambience.
3. Choose a statement focal point
Including a statement piece, whether that be a mirror or an indoor plant, is a simple way to create an eye-catching focal point to your console table. Try choosing a focal point which fits in with the rest of your home decor. Our favourite focal points include:
- Statement lamps
- Indoor plant
- Candle and holder
- Vase
- Striking ornaments
Remember to keep the size of your space in mind. Only include a statement focal point that your room can handle!
4. Colour scheme
Image source: Atkin & Thyme
Decorations which fit into the same colour scheme as your room will create a well held together design. Sticking to colour schemes reflects consistency and can easily be achieved. We recommend taking a look online for your favourite colour combinations and creating a mood board. You can also use a colour wheel and pick your favourite complementary shades. Once you’ve decided on a colour scheme, try incorporating the theme into your whole room decor for a well put together finish.
5. Use varying heights
A great way to add diversity to your console table decorations is to play with height. Look into different height ornaments and decorative pieces can help to add layers of visual appeal to the console table to keep it interesting. Keep in mind the size of your space and your measurements when looking for varying height decorations.
6. Add personalisation
A console table can be an excellent outlet to showcase your household and express yourself through framed photos and books. If your table is located in your entranceway, give your guests a preview of the designs, patterns and colours they may see in the rest of the interior. Exhibit your favourite books, and even pick art pieces as your chosen focal point.
7. Include a natural element
It is becoming more and more important to incorporate nature within our homes, and there’s no easier way to do so than purchasing an indoor plant. Bringing the outdoors indoors has many benefits, such as improving air quality and relieving stress. What’s more, it is the perfect way to add a touch of colour and life to a console table.
Conclusion
Decorating a console table can be a tricky task. It can seem difficult to strike the perfect balance of form and functionality. Follow our list of 7 top tips, and you’ll have the perfect console table decor in no time.
Happy decorating!
Post contributed by Emily. Emily Walton is a Content and SEO Specialist for Digital Marketing Agency Tillison Consulting. With a Bachelor’s Degree in fine art and a keen eye for interior design, she writes for a broad spectrum of online clients. This sees Emily experienced in lifestyle, music, art, design, business and digital marketing related topics. When Emily is not crafting content she is actively driving organic traffic to client sites with her SEO expertise. Find Emily on Twitter @Tillison_Emily