Everything You Need to Know About Console Tables
Console tables are among the most versatile and design-forward furniture pieces in any home. Whether styled behind a sofa, positioned in an entryway, or placed in a dining room, a console table offers both aesthetic appeal and everyday functionality. But what exactly is a console table, and how can it be used to enhance your space?
What Is a Console Table?
A console table is a long, narrow table typically placed against a wall or behind furniture like sofas. Unlike a coffee table or side table, it’s designed for more vertical space and subtle surface use, often serving as a decorative anchor or functional accent in compact areas.
Console tables originated in 17th-century France as ornate wall-mounted surfaces (or “consoles”) meant to display artwork, sculptures, or candelabras. Today, they’re made in a range of styles, from modern minimalist to ornately traditional.
Common sizes range from 28 to 36 inches in height and about 12 to 18 inches in depth, making them ideal for hallways, behind seating, or as part of layered living room or bedroom décor.
A console table can serve both decorative and practical purposes—used for display, storage, lighting, or even light work. Depending on the design, you may also find versions with drawers, shelving, or enclosed storage for added versatility.
Browse our console table collection for both vintage and custom-crafted options.
Where Can You Use Console Tables?
Console tables are highly adaptable and can be placed throughout the home. Below are some of the most popular placements—and how they function in each space.
Hallway or Entryway
This is one of the most traditional uses for a console. Placed in a foyer, a console table creates a stylish first impression while providing a spot for keys, mail, or bags. Pair it with a mirror, artwork, or lighting to bring balance and intention to the space.
Dining Room
A dining room console serves as a staging surface during meals or gatherings. It can act as a serving area for drinks, dishes, or desserts. Choose one with drawers to store placemats, cutlery, or serving tools between uses.
Living Room
Console tables in the living room can function as a slim media console or as a styling piece behind a sofa. They’re ideal for showcasing decorative elements while reducing clutter on a central coffee table.
Bedroom
Used under a mirror with a stool, a console table becomes an elegant vanity. It can also function as a nightstand or secondary surface for lighting, books, or decorative storage.
Home Office
In a home office, a console table is perfect for storing office supplies, a printer, or for use as a small laptop desk. It offers functionality without taking up significant floor space—an ideal choice for hybrid work areas or reading nooks.
Whether used for display or function, a console table is one of the most adaptable pieces in home design. It can serve as an entryway catchall, a dining room server, or even a stylish vanity—making it a versatile addition to any room.
For more multifunctional furniture, explore our custom offerings.
How to Style Console Table Spaces
Knowing how to style a console table turns it from a surface into a statement. Styling is where you create visual balance, add personality, and layer both form and function into the piece.
Start with three core styling elements:
- Height variation: Use items of different heights, such as lamps, stacked books, and vases.
- Balance: Anchor each side with visual weight. This could mean pairing a tall floral arrangement with grouped frames or sculptural objects.
- Purpose: Consider your needs. In an entryway, include a tray for keys. In the dining room, leave space for serving platters.
Console tables benefit from seasonal updates. Rotate décor like candles, small artworks, or fresh greenery to keep the look current and reflective of your style.
Console Shelf Styling Tips for Small Spaces
If you’re working with limited square footage, a console shelf offers both storage and design impact. These tables include one or more built-in shelves beneath the main surface, giving you more flexibility for vertical styling.
Use the lower shelf for baskets or bins to keep essentials tidy. Style with books, ceramic vessels, or framed photos using the rule of thirds—grouping items in odd numbers and varying their shapes and textures.
A console table with a shelf works especially well in condos, apartments, or hallways where closed storage isn’t feasible, but visual order is essential.
Console Tables vs. Side Tables – What’s the Difference?
Though often confused, console tables and side tables serve very different roles.
| Feature | Console Table | Side Table |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Narrow, long, taller | Small, short, compact |
| Primary Use | Decoration, storage, surface styling | Everyday access beside seating |
| Common Placement | Entryway, hallway, behind sofa | Beside sofas or chairs |
Console tables are usually used to anchor a space or support larger design elements like mirrors or art. Side tables, on the other hand, are functional surfaces for placing drinks, lamps, or books near seating areas.
Carrocel offers console tables that blend decorative function with everyday utility, often serving as a hybrid between furniture categories.
What to Consider When Buying a Console Table
Choosing the right console table depends on your space, needs, and personal style.
- Measure your space: Pay close attention to depth if placing one in a hallway or tight passage.
- Think about use: Ask yourself, what is a console table used for in your home—display, storage, or multi-use?
- Consider materials: Brass and glass offer a modern, airy aesthetic. Wood like walnut or mahogany leans more traditional and adds visual warmth.
- Look for storage options: Drawers and shelving can increase function without sacrificing style.
- Personalize your piece: Carrocel offers custom options to suit both modern and classic interiors.
History and Design Evolution of the Console Table
Console tables trace their roots to 17th-century French aristocracy. Originally ornate, wall-mounted pieces used to hold candelabras or decorative items, they evolved into freestanding furniture with legs and sculptural details.
By the mid-20th century, console tables took on simpler forms—sleek lines, glass tops, and mixed materials like brass and acrylic. These designs became hallmarks of mid-century modern interiors.
Today, console tables span styles from minimalist to richly detailed, including wall-mounted options for tight spaces and multi-shelf versions for added storage. This long design lineage makes the console table one of the most adaptable furniture pieces in the modern home.
To explore historically inspired and contemporary styles, visit our Toronto showroom or contact us for personalized advice.
View Our Premium Collections of Console Tables
Explore our curated collection of console tables featuring vintage, modern, and custom designs that reflect refined craftsmanship and timeless appeal. Whether you’re styling a foyer or completing a living room, we offer unique pieces that elevate any interior.
Visit our showroom in Toronto to experience these tables in person, or browse our online catalogue to find your next statement piece. Personalized design consultations, expert showroom guidance, and access to rare, ready-to-select pieces are all part of the Carrocel experience.
Modern Marble Top Walnut with Brass Detail Console Table
Warm-toned natural stone top with unique veining details- Two spacious drawers for concealed storage
- Modern Marble Top Walnut with Brass Detail Console Table
Custom Modern Console Table with Round Brass Pedestal
Crafted from Ziricote wood with a unique wood grain pattern- Round brushed brass pedestal and high gloss wood finish
- Custom Modern Console Table with Round Brass Pedestal
Modern Console Table Credenza by James Mont, Circa 1960, USA
Masterfully restored in a semi-gloss white lacquered finish- Demi-lune cabinet offers a large storage compartment
- Modern Console Table Credenza by James Mont, Circa 1960, USA
