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Last Updated on August 11, 2026: These tips for how to decorate a console have been updated with new information.
Decorating a console table is one of the easiest ways to elevate an entryway, hallway, or living room space. Because console tables often serve as a visual anchor of a room, styling them thoughtfully creates an immediate feeling of warmth and design intent.
A console table is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture. If you are wanting design inspiration, we have provided some easy tips and ways to decorate a console below. With console styling ideas, you can easily create an entryway that’s appealing yet fully functional in your home.
How to Decorate a Console: Choosing the Perfect Console Table
Functional Table that Fits Your Space
A console table acts as a catch-all for keys and mail, grounds large artwork, and adds layered character to empty hallways. You’ll want to first measure your space to determine the right size console table that will work in your space.
Also consider and determine the depth of the table if you are working with a narrow hallway or small entryway.
rug | vase | dried florals
Once your table is in place, styling it brings it to life. A well styled console table balances height, texture, and function.
Guide for Decorating a Console Table
Console Table Styling Easy Formula
This Step-By-Step Formula for Decorating a Console table makes styling your entryway effortless, balanced, and intentionally designed. The formula helps to show you exactly how to create a balanced look in under 10 minutes while staying on a budget.
Start with an Anchor (the Focal Point)
Every well-styled console table needs a central anchor to draw the eye upward and establish scale. Without something substantial on or above the table, your decor items will look like they are floating in space.
Large Mirrors:
An oversized round or arch mirror bounces light around the room, creates depth, and gives you a convenient spot for a quick check before heading out the door.
Statement Artwork:
A large canvas or framed print brings color and personality into the space.
Layering Artwork:
Leaning artwork has some perks. It really helps to elevate the space. You can get a completely new look just by adding a new framed art print in front. They are less expensive to change up rather than the large art and mirrors.
Gallery Wall:
If a single piece feels too simple, hang a grid or asymmetrical grouping of smaller framed prints.
Styling Tip: You don’t always have to hang your artwork or mirror on the wall. For a relaxed, modern look, rest a large, framed piece directly on the back of the console table and lean it against the wall.
Establish Height and Verticality
Draw the Eye Upward
Once your anchor is in place, establish height on the table itself. A common mistake is using items that are all the same height, which creates a flat, boring line across the surface.
Table Lamps
A pair of matching tall lamps on either side creates formal symmetry. Alternatively, use a single statement lamp on one side for an organic, modern feel.
striped lamp | white knob lamp | Mirror
Tall Vases with Stems:
A tall ceramic or glass vase filled with seasonal florals, pampas grass, or eucalyptus stems adds height, texture, and natural movement.
Candlesticks:
Taper candle holders of varying heights offer great slender vertical lines without adding heavy visual weight.
Medium and Low Elements
How to Decorate a Console with Tabletop Accessories
Use medium and low height items to anchor the lower table areas using things like picture frames, stacked coffee table books, decorative bowls, and small decorative boxes.
Console Table Styling: Don’t Forget the Space Underneath
Grounding the Look at the Bottom of Console
Now that we went over ideas for how to decorate a console, don’t forget the space beneath your console table. Leaving it empty can make your arrangement look top-heavy, while filling it grounds the entire piece of furniture.
Pair of Ottoman Stools:
By sliding ottoman stools underneath, you gain fabric texture and symmetry. They come in handy when you need extra seating as well then they can be tucked right back out of the way underneath the console, when no longer needed.
Woven Storage Baskets:
Pairing storage baskets not only introduce the look of warm natural fibers, but they are also perfect for creating a simple solution to an entryway drop zone. You can store anything from shoes to winter gear in them.
stems I storage boxes | lamp | artwork
Final Thoughts on Console Table Styling: Making It Yours
How to Decorate a Console You Love
I’d like to finish by saying there is no “correct” way for how to decorate a console. While these guideless give you a strong foundation, the best homes reflect the people living inside them. Mix in personal elements-a treasured souvenir from a trip, a thrifting find, or a family heirloom- to make the space uniquely yours.
Step back, look at the arrangement as a whole, tweak things as needed, and enjoy your newly style space!
It’s also fun to change it out with seasonal decor and of course switch things up when you want a different look or you get a new piece of console decor to showcase.
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