How to buy a console table

Ideal for any narrow space, a console table has an important part to play in furnishing your home. A console table can transform a hallway, make use of space behind sofas, under staircases or on landings. And they have a use beyond the practical too. A well-decorated table can add real wow factor to any space.

Where will it go?

Hallway

Living room

Bedroom

A hallway is where you most often see a console table. As hallways tend to be narrow in most houses, a console table is the ideal choice from both a practical and an aesthetic level. Perfect for storing things that you need before leaving the house without a last-minute hunt, it will also be the first thing most visitors to your home will see so it gives you a great opportunity to show off your decorative creativity.

Behind a sofa, along a wall or used to divide an open-plan space, a console table is a versatile option for a living room. Store bits and bobs, top them with lamps and family photographs or your favourite ornaments.

A console table can make an elegant alternative to a dressing table. With a wall-mounted mirror behind and a complementary stool, it can be an ideal solution for smaller bedrooms.

Why choose a wooden console table?

Wood is naturally warm, beautiful, strong and durable, making it the ideal choice for most decors. Oak tables provide a timeless rustic look, while a darker wood like sheesham will add an exotic appeal that will suit a variety of decors both traditional and modern.

Things to consider

Think about the space you want to fill and choose accordingly. Console tables are available in a variety of sizes. Longer tables are just the thing for hallways, while smaller pieces can give alcoves and other narrow spaces a real lift and provide a lovely focal point.

Choose a console table with drawers and/or a lower shelf and they’ll help keep your space clutter free. So vital when space is at a premium.

Consider the other furniture in the room. A console table offers an excellent opportunity to make a statement both in how it looks and how you decorate it. It can either stand out as a decorative accent piece or blend in to complement the other furniture in your home.

Be inspired

Here are just a few ideas to help make your console table look spectacular. You’ll also find lots more by following this link

Arrange items symmetrically – matching vases or lamps at the ends with a favourite photograph centre stage can look really effective.
Display books in ascending height order from one end to the tallest one in the middle and then descending height order to the other end.
Think about the wall behind and try one large mirror or several small ones. A wall of photographs or paintings will work too.
If you have a smaller console table, don’t crowd it. Use just one item to decorate it. A vase of flowers, a favourite ornament or a bowl of fruit will all look good.
Pick one theme. Show off a collection of figurines or trophies or even model cars.

How to care for your console table

With a reasonable amount of care and attention, your console table should give you many years of sterling service.

Good quality beeswax applied every six months or so will keep the wood nourished, provide protection and keep it looking its best.
Wipe any spills immediately with a damp cloth then use a dry cloth to finish off.
Avoid putting your console table in direct sunlight to avoid fading, or too near to a radiator to prevent joints and veneers weakening and becoming loose.