How to Decorate a Console Table: Styling Ideas for Every Room

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Decorating a console table is one of my favorite ways to add a personal touch to a room. These narrow but versatile pieces show up everywhere—from entryways and hallways to behind the sofa or even in a bedroom. But figuring out how to style one can sometimes feel tricky.

Over the years, I’ve styled console tables in just about every room of our home, and in this post I’m sharing my best console table decorating ideas—plus done-for-you pairings, styling tips, and the accessories I always come back to.

Start with a Strong Foundation

In my experience, the key to a great console table setup is striking a balance between form and function. Especially in an entryway, I always like to include a place for daily essentials—like a bowl for keys or a tray for mail.

From there, I play with symmetry, shape, and scale to create a well-layered vignette that reflects my style.

Here’s a simple formula I come back to again and again:

• Anchor it: Hang a mirror or large piece of artwork above the table.
• Add height: Use tall lamps, vases, or candlesticks to draw the eye upward.
• Layer for depth: Mix in objects of different shapes, sizes, and textures.
• Keep it functional: Incorporate trays or catchalls to stay organized.
• Ground the look: Use baskets, ottomans, or books on the lower shelf if your console has one.

Console Table Styles (And How to Decorate Them)

The style of your console table can guide your decor decisions. Here are a few of the most popular types and how I like to style each one:

Traditional

Think carved details, rich wood tones, and a timeless look. I like styling traditional console tables with a pair of classic lamps, a stack of vintage books, and a decorative bowl or floral arrangement in the center.

Modern

Modern console tables tend to have clean lines and sleek materials like metal or glass. I love adding bold artwork above a modern table, then using sculptural objects or a statement lamp to complement the clean silhouette.

Rustic

Reclaimed wood, warm finishes, and casual charm—rustic console tables are one of my favorites for making a space feel cozy. Fresh greenery, woven baskets, and antique-inspired accessories work beautifully here.

Rustic console tables can bring a warm and inviting vibe to a room… Check out these Pottery Barn dupes if you’re styling with that cozy, elevated look in mind.

Minimalist

Minimalist console tables are all about simplicity. I usually keep the decor pared back with just a few thoughtful pieces—like a simple vase, one framed art piece, and maybe a low-profile bowl.

Where to Use a Console Table (And How to Style It)

Entryway

The most common spot for a console table! This is your chance to make a great first impression. I recommend anchoring the look with a mirror or artwork, adding lighting (like a lamp or sconce), and finishing it off with practical elements like a tray for keys or a small decorative bowl.

Living Room

Behind the sofa, against a wall, or even under a window—console tables can add a polished look to your living room. I like incorporating items that tie into the room’s color palette, like a stack of coffee table books, framed photos, or a low vase with seasonal greenery.

Hallway

Hallways can feel like an afterthought, but a console table adds instant interest. I suggest using a narrow table that doesn’t overwhelm the space and topping it with a mirror to reflect light and make the hallway feel larger.

Bedroom

Don’t sleep on console tables in bedrooms! You can use them as vanities, a place for a small TV, or simply a decorative accent under a window. Add a mirror, small tray, and a candle or vase for a calm, pretty look.

To dress up a rustic console table, I suggest adding fresh greenery, vintage books, or even a cozy throw blanket.

Go-To Accessories for Styling

Styling a console table is all about mixing elements. Here are a few of the items I come back to time and time again:

Table Lamps

Lamps add both height and functionality. I often use two on either end of the table for symmetry, but even a single sculptural lamp can be a standout moment.

Mirrors

A mirror above your console table instantly opens up the space. I love using round or arched mirrors for a softer look, or rectangular mirrors for a more tailored feel.

Artwork

Layer framed artwork or prints behind smaller objects for depth. You can hang one statement piece or lean several against the wall for a more relaxed look.

Plants & Greenery

Whether real or faux, greenery always adds life. Try a tall stem arrangement, a trailing plant, or a cluster of smaller potted plants. (Faux olive branches are one of my go-tos.)

Bowls, Trays & Books

These are the items that help your table stay organized and stylish. A pretty tray corrals clutter. A stack of books adds height. A bowl makes the space feel lived in —just like I recommend when styling a kitchen island, too.

Styling Tips That Make a Difference

1. Balance

Try to evenly distribute visual weight across the table. This doesn’t mean it has to be symmetrical, but avoid putting everything on one side. Lamps or tall vases on either end can help ground the look.

2. Scale

Match the scale of your decor to the table and wall space. Large pieces can overwhelm a small console, while tiny accessories can feel lost on a bigger one.

3. Color Palette

Stick to 2–3 main colors or tones that work with your overall room decor. This will keep your table feeling intentional, not chaotic.

4. Layering

Layer items front to back—think a mirror in the back, a vase in the middle, and a small dish or decorative object in front. Varying heights and depths keep the eye moving.

No styled space is complete without a few throw pillows. If you’re wondering how to mix patterns, I’ve got a full pillow styling guide here.

Function + Style

Console tables don’t just have to be pretty. I often use the bottom shelf for baskets (great for storing shoes or toys), extra seating (like tucked-in stools), or a stack of cozy throws.

You can also work in practical elements like catchalls for keys, small drawers for paperwork, or hidden bins for miscellaneous items. The trick is making it look like it belongs.

RELATED: Love the Serena & Lily look but bot the price point? Then check out these 50+ Serena and Lily dupes.

What Do You Put on the Bottom Shelf of a Console Table?

The bottom shelf is your best friend when it comes to function. I almost always add:

• Baskets (for blankets, shoes, or toys)
• Books (especially large coffee table books)
• Ottomans or stools (great for extra seating or filling space)

Not only does it ground the overall look, but it keeps the area feeling styled—not cluttered.

Done-For-You Console Table Pairings

I’ve pulled together several pairings of console tables and decorative items to make it easy for you to get a beautiful look in your own home. All items are linked directly below the image.

Pairing 1: Moody Nuetrals

Product sources: console table // artwork // lamp // book stack // marble links // vase // faux greenery // ottomans

Pairing 2: Casual Coastal

Product sources: console table // large artwork // leafy stems
small artwork // candle // decorative vases // lamp // baskets

Pairing 3: California Eclectic

Product sources: console table // brass mirror // candle holders // ruffled marble bowl
faux cherry blossoms // x-base stools

Pairing 4: Coastal Luxe

Product sources: console table // faux stems // woven mirror // decorative boxes
lamp // baskets

Final Thoughts

If you’ve ever felt stumped on how to decorate a console table, I hope this post gave you some practical inspiration. The best part is that console tables are incredibly versatile—so you can change them up with the seasons, update them when you move, or keep them classic with your favorite go-to pieces.

Take your time, play around with balance and scale, and don’t be afraid to tweak things until it feels right. That’s the fun of decorating—it evolves with you.