Workshop Styling a console table
Slimline console tables are one of the quiet heroes of home decor as they can be adapted to suit just about any space
The slim and stylish console table is one of those trusty items of furniture that can make themselves useful all over the house. These low-profile tables are designed to live against a wall but their uses are really only limited by your imagination. Whether creating a first impression for guests in an entranceway, housing car keys, sunglasses and phones in a hallway, or standing discreetly behind a couch, a console should suit the style of your home and work for your family (see page 20 for a few options). Here are our tips for styling a really beautiful and useful console.
STYLING
There are no strict rules on what should and shouldn’t go on top of a console, but the most important thing to remember is to avoid clutter. Think about mixing items of different heights and textures (mix matte and glossy objects for best effect) to create interest and don’t be afraid to leave empty space. Grouping collections of items together and placing them on a tray or atop a pile of books always looks great, too.
ANCHORING
To anchor a console table in its surroundings, consider adding either a decorative mirror or a piece of art. This item should be proportionate to the space and the size of the console table.
> Mirror Console tables and mirrors are a common pairing as together they create a handy area for final touch-ups before you head out the door. Depending on the style you choose, a mirror can be hung or leaned against the wall, and ideally it should coordinate with your console through its colour or style.
> Artwork Art can unify and liven up an entranceway and can also be used as a starting point for the scheme in this area, so select wisely and think about the overall effect you want to create. The chosen artwork should tie in with the colour or design of your console.
ADD A RUG
If you have wooden floors in your hallway, a rug or runner looks great just in front of the console. Make sure it’s not too small as the result may look unbalanced. Also, never place a rug under the console – keep a narrow space between the two.
LIGHTING
A table lamp on top of a console adds another light source, creating an extra layer of ambience. We are also seeing a lot more feature pendant lights over consoles (as shown opposite) which can look great in the right setting.