How do you decorate a console table? Hang a mirror or art above the table to anchor the wall, add one tall item such as a table lamp or vase, then layer in medium and smaller objects like books, a bowl or a tray. Arrange them at varying heights in a loose triangle, use odd numbers, and leave some of the surface empty. Finish the space underneath with baskets or stools.
Knowing how to decorate a console table pays off, because it's usually the first thing people see when they walk through the door. It's also narrow, which makes it easy to overcrowd. This guide covers simple rules and styling ideas, what to put on a console table, and console table decor ideas for entryways, hallways and living rooms.
Console Table Styling Rules That Always Work
| Rule | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Anchor the wall | Choose a mirror or art about two thirds to three quarters of the table's width |
| Build a triangle | Place the tallest object at one side, then step down toward the other |
| Use odd numbers | Group objects in threes or fives |
| Vary the shapes | Mix different shapes (tall, round and flat) and different sizes |
| Balance visual weight | A wide lamp at one end can be balanced by a stack of books and a bowl at the other |
| Leave breathing room | Keep at least a quarter of the surface clear |
What is the 3-5-7 rule in decorating? It's the idea that items look best in groups of three, five or seven. Odd numbers feel relaxed, while even numbers can feel stiff. On a console table, three or five is usually plenty.
Symmetry is a different option. Two matching lamps with a bowl in the middle look formal and calm, which suits traditional rooms. The triangle looks more casual, so choose according to your style.
Start With the Wall
The wall above matters as much as the tabletop. Without something there, decor can look like it's floating.
- Mirror: The classic choice for an entryway, since it bounces light and gives you a last look on your way out the door. Leave about 6 to 10 inches between the table and the bottom of the mirror. Our guide on how high to hang a mirror has exact heights.
- Large art: One picture has more impact than several small ones.
- Gallery wall: A good way to fill a tall wall. See these gallery wall ideas.
- Leaning art: Rest a frame on the table for a relaxed look. It's an easy way to try a piece without making holes.
What to Put on a Console Table
Something tall
A table lamp is the best option, since it adds height and warm light at the same time. A tall vase with branches also works, and it's good for tables far from an outlet.
Something medium
Try a candle, a sculpture, a small plant or a framed photo. A decorative object with an unusual shape gives the eye somewhere to rest.
Something low
Coffee table books are the easiest way to add a low layer. Stack two or three, then set a small object on top to add height where you need it.
Something living
Fresh flowers, greenery or a small potted plant make the display feel alive. Faux stems are fine in dim hallways, where real ones won't last.
Something practical
A tray or bowl for keys keeps practical elements tidy. Without one, your mail and sunglasses will spread across the surface.
10 Console Table Decor Ideas
1. The classic lamp and mirror
A mirror with a lamp to one side and flowers on the other is a simple, timeless layout. The photo above uses this setup on the Relievo Rocaille Entryway Console Table, whose carved details and curved legs need very little decoration.
2. Matching lamps
Two lamps give a formal look, and they're especially good behind a sofa. Put a low bowl in the center.
3. A big vase of branches
Use one oversized vase instead of many small objects. It looks modern and is easy to dust.
4. A pair of candlesticks and a book stack
Simple and inexpensive. Choose metal candlesticks for shine and warm-toned books for color.
5. A collection
Group ceramics, glass bottles or vintage boxes. Sticking to one color makes a collection look deliberate.
6. A hardworking drop zone
For an entryway table, function comes first. Add a bowl for keys, a tray for mail and a basket underneath for shoes. Drawers are useful here too, since they hide the mess. Our guide to small entryway ideas has more.
7. A minimal look
Try one sculptural vase and one piece of art. This style needs an attractive table, and it works best in calm, modern rooms.
8. A behind-the-sofa display
When a console stands behind a sofa, keep it at or just below the top of the sofa back. Use lamps at each end, with books and small objects in the middle. Tall items are fine, but stay away from anything guests could knock over.
9. A dining room drinks station
In a dining room, a console can hold a tray of glasses, a decanter and a small plant. It's useful when you're hosting and looks good the rest of the time.
10. A seasonal switch
Swap in a few pieces each season. Use garland, mini trees and candles for Christmas, and branches or pumpkins for autumn. For more holiday ideas, see our Christmas decorating ideas.
What to Put Under a Console Table
The space under the table is an opportunity for extra storage, and it stops the piece from looking leggy.
- Baskets: Good for shoes, scarves, dog leads and toys.
- Stools or ottomans: A pair adds seating when guests arrive.
- A bench: Handy for putting on shoes, if the table is long enough.
- A large floor vase or plant: Fills the space without adding clutter.
- Books: A stack on a lower shelf looks good and adds visual weight.
Need help with footwear? See our shoe storage ideas.
Style It for Where It Sits
| Location | What matters | Try this |
|---|---|---|
| Entryway | Storage and a strong first impression | Mirror, lamp, bowl, baskets |
| Narrow hallway | Keeping the path clear | Wall art, slim objects, wall sconces |
| Behind a sofa | Height and balance | Two lamps, books, low bowl |
| Living room wall | Filling space | Large art, plants, stools |
| Dining room | Serving | Tray, candles, glasses |
| Under a TV | A clear view | Low objects only, tall items at the ends |
In a tight hall, wall-mounted lighting frees up the tabletop. Our hallway decor ideas offer more options. If you need more storage than a console allows, a low sideboard is a good alternative. The Orbis Rounded Edge Sideboard offers doors and drawers, and how to decorate a sideboard shows how to style a wider surface.
Match the Decor to Your Style
- Modern: Pick a sculptural vase, a simple lamp and a large abstract print. Keep the surface mostly clear.
- Traditional: Use symmetry, with matching lamps, a framed mirror and a porcelain bowl.
- Farmhouse: Choose woven baskets, a wood tray and simple greenery.
- Coastal: Keep it relaxed with light wood, glass, shells and a touch of blue.
- Glam: Go for metal accents, glass lamps and a mirrored tray.
Whichever you choose, repeat one color or material from elsewhere in the room so the table feels connected to your home decor. For more on this, see our guide to interior design styles.
Common Console Table Mistakes
- Too many smaller objects: Lots of little items read as clutter. Choose fewer, larger pieces.
- Ignoring scale: A tiny mirror over a long table looks lost.
- Everything the same height: The eye needs a high point and a low point.
- Lining things up: Stagger objects from front to back, as far as the depth allows.
- Forgetting light: Dark entries need a lamp, not just decor.
Related: see our Christmas entryway decor ideas, ideas for what to put above a couch, guide to decorating a dresser, and entryway table decor ideas.
FAQ
What looks good on a console table?
A lamp or tall vase, a stack of books, a bowl or tray, and something natural like flowers. Add a mirror or art above.
How do you decorate an entryway table?
Start with what you need there: a bowl for keys and a tray for mail. Then add a mirror, a lamp and a plant, and put baskets underneath.
What do you put on the bottom of a console table?
Baskets, stools, books or a large plant. Keep it simple, with one or two larger items instead of several small ones.
How tall should a console table be behind a couch?
At or slightly below the top of the sofa back. That keeps it from looking too tall from the seating side.
How many items should go on a console table?
Three to five groups of objects is enough. If you can't dust it in a minute, it's probably too much.
Should a mirror be wider than a console table?
No. A mirror around two thirds to three quarters of the table's width usually looks best.
Related: Small entryway ideas · How to decorate a sideboard · How to style a coffee table · How to decorate a TV stand