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What is the first thing people see when they come through your front door? It should reflect you and your style and a sneak peek of what to expect in the rest of your home. That’s why an entrance or hallway is so important – you need to create a beautiful first impression.
Styling a console table can enhance the aesthetics of your hallway or living room, making it a focal point and a practical piece of furniture. Whether you're working with a hall table or a console table in your living room, here are some tips and ideas to help you create a beautifully styled table. It may be the same piece of furniture, but the location may be different which may require different styling. If it’s placed against a wall, you might style it differently than a console that is behind a sofa, so here are some ideas. Console table styling and styling a hall table have differences but also similarities – these tips may help you decide which is best for your home, whether it’s deciding what are the best things to style with or what do you put on either side of a console table – let’s get started.
HOW TO DECORATE A CONSOLE OR HALLWAY TABLE
Focus on Functionality: Use decorative trays to organise keys, mail, or small items. In a small space, consider a narrow table with drawers for additional storage, and a decorative tray for keys and a small bowl for loose change.
Keep it Simple and Streamlined: Avoid overcrowding the table with too many decorative items. Choose a few key pieces that add to the overall design. A vase with fresh flowers, a small table lamp, and a framed photo can make the table visually appealing without cluttering it.
Height Variation: Mix items of varying heights to create a balanced and interesting look. For example, pair a tall lamp with a shorter vase and a medium-height decorative box.
Reflective Surfaces: Mirrors can make a narrow hallway feel larger and brighter. Hang a large mirror above the hallway table to reflect light and create the illusion of more space.
Personal Touches: Add personal items like family photos or travel souvenirs to make the space unique. An example would be, a few framed family photos, a small decorative bowl from a memorable trip, and a personalised sign.
Create Layers: Layer items to add depth and interest. Start with a large mirror or piece of artwork as a backdrop, then add books, candles, and smaller decorative items in front.
Balance and Symmetry: Symmetrical arrangements can create a harmonious look. Place matching lamps on either end of the console table, with a central piece like a decorative bowl or sculpture.
Play with Proportions: Use a mix of tall and short items for a dynamic look. For example, a tall vase filled with flowers, a medium-sized stack of books, and a small decorative figurine.
Consider the Space Above: Utilise the wall space above the table to complement the decor. You could hang a gallery of small, framed artworks or a single large piece to draw the eye upwards.
Seasonal Change: Update the decor seasonally to keep it fresh. Change items such as flowers, candles and decorative items to reflect the current season, whether it’s autumn, winter or Christmas.
WHAT DO YOU PUT ON EITHER SIDE OF A CONSOLE TABLE
When decorating your console table, the choice is entirely yours and should reflect your personal style. Symmetry is key to creating a balanced and inviting look. Consider placing matching lamps, vases, or other decorative objects on both ends of the table to achieve a visually appealing arrangement. Here are some ideas:
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Lamps
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Vases
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Candlesticks
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Potted plants or flowers
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Books
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Sculptures or figurines
ADDITIONAL TIPS
Here are some additional tips that work for both a hallway table and a console table in the living room.
Pair of Chairs: Place a pair of chairs near the table to create a cosy seating area. A pair of upholstered chairs flanking the console table in the hallway will create an inviting spot to sit, a place to store additional seating, or simply to change shoes before you leave the house. Ensure the front legs of any nearby chairs are on a rug to tie the area together. You could add a small rug under the console table with the front legs of the chairs placed on it.
Living Room Layout Ideas: Consider how the table fits into the overall room layout. Position the hallway table to complement the furniture placement in the living room, such as aligning it with the coffee table or sofas facing each other.
Dining Area: This may seem obvious but coordinate the table decor with nearby furniture. Match the style of the hallway table decor with the living room coffee table, using similar colours and textures.
Furniture Placemat: Ensure the table does not obstruct pathways or make the space feel cramped, so in a hallway, place the table against the wall to keep the hallway clear and open.
Dining Rooms: Consider how the table complements the dining area and use decor on the hallway table that matches the dining room style, such as similar colour schemes or themes.
By incorporating some of these detailed examples and tips on hall table styling and console table dressing, you can create a cohesive and stylish look for both hallway and console tables, enhancing the overall decor of your living space.
