We style a LOT of consoles in our staging projects. We follow a pretty simple formula for styling consoles but they always manage to look fresh and different in each project. Console tables are great all over the house. We typically use them in entryways, living and dining rooms, and bedrooms. Similar to a fireplace or mantle, it’s easy and inexpensive to switch up the console table with the seasons or when you tire of your current look. Here is the formula that we use to style console tables:

ADD A MIRROR OR PIECE OF ART AS THE FOCAL POINT

Start the console styling with a substantial mirror or piece of art to act as the focal point over the table. It’s important that you choose a piece that is the right scale for the console table. A mirror or piece of art that’s too small will feel unfinished and a piece that’s too big will feel too crowded. We typically use mirrors over the console table because mirrors act as a way to bring more light into the space, so they are always great choice.

BRING IN LIGHT WITH A TABLE LAMP

The next step is to add a table lamp on the console table to bring in some light. Again, pay attention to the scale of the table lamp and in particular, the depth of the lamp and shade in relation to the depth of the console table. More often than not in staging we choose a lamp for the look without realizing that the lamp and shade is too deep for the table. Conversely, lamps that are too small will look insignificant and throw off the balance. We also recommend that you choose a lamp that compliments the style of the console table, as well as the style of the mirror or piece of art. As an example, if you have an industrial style console table, we would steer clear of anything too flashy or glamorous. Similarly, if you start with a gold mirror over the console table, we would recommend that you avoid a metallic lamp base and choose a lamp that compliments, not competes.

ADD A POP OF FRESHNESS WITH GREENERY

We try to add greenery, either real or faux, in every room of the home and the console table is a great place to add an additional pop of color. There is something about indoor plants that add a sense of warmth and vibrancy and completes the space. If you can’t seem to keep indoor plants alive, there are several amazing faux options. I have about 1/2 real and 1/2 faux in my own home as I’m admittedly not that great with plants. We also love plants on the console because they are easy to change up seasonally. If you find a vase that you love, you can simply swap out different stems and branches as the season change for a fresh new look every few months.

LAYER IN DIFFERENT HEIGHTS AND TEXTURES WITH BOOKS AND ACCESSORIES

The last step to styling the console is probably the most fun, but also the most intimidating. Depending on the amount of room left on the console, we love to add in a variety of accessories to add different heights and textures and create visual interest. One combination that we use frequently is a stack of books topped with a decorative item, like marble links or a decorative bowl. Before you head out to the store for accessories we always recommend that you shop your own house first to find inspiration. Another solid option is a stack of decorative boxes, which can add a pop of color or a new texture to the console, or even a long tray between the lamp and plant. The options are endless, but just add one or two fun pieces that speak to you and work with the scale of the rest of the console.

Below are two different ideas to style the same wood console table. The formula is the same for both looks, but the outcomes are totally different. Don’t be afraid to try a new look on your console table - it’s super easy to make a few small changes for a fresh, new look.