by Console Table – A Versatile Furniture Piece
Introduction
Console tables have long been a staple furniture piece in homes across the world. With their versatility and ability to serve multiple purposes, console tables have retained their popularity over centuries. In this article, we will explore the various types of console tables available, their uses, best placements in the home and tips for styling and care.
Types of Console Tables
There is a wide variety of console tables available in the market to suit different aesthetic tastes and needs. Some of the main types include:
Narrow console tables: Narrow console tables with widths of 18-24 inches are perfect for tight spaces like entryways and narrow hallways. Their narrow profile allows them to fit snugly against walls without taking up too much floor space.
Wide console tables: As the name suggests, wide console tables have widths of 30 inches or more. Their spacious surface makes them suitable for use behind sofas and in living areas where you need seating and storage.
Floating console tables: Floating console tables have slender legs that raise the table top few inches above the floor. This creates the illusion of the table ‘floating’. They work well behind sectional sofas.
Mirrored console tables: Mirrored console tables add glamour with their reflective surface. In addition to providing storage, they make spaces appear larger and brighter. Place one in an entryway or behind a sofa.
Rustic console tables: With natural wood finishes and exposed wood grains, rustic console tables impart warmth and texture. Their casually elegant style fits well in eclectic and farmhouse themed interiors.
Glass console tables: The transparent surface of glass console tables allows the lower decor to shine through. Opt for a glass console table to avoid blocking views.
Uses of Console Tables
Given their versatility, console tables can serve various purposes in different rooms of the home:
Entryway: In the entryway, console tables provide much needed storage for keys, bills, mail and small decorative items. They also offer seating space for removing shoes.
Living room: Behind sofas, console tables are useful for stowing away remotes, books, plants and accessories. Their surface doubles up as an extra display or serving area when needed.
Dining room: A console table along the longest wall in the dining room provides extra seating during large gatherings. It can also hold serving dishes, candles, flowers etc.
Hallway: In narrow hallways, a slim console table provides storage without taking up precious floor area. Use it to organize mail and odds and ends.
Bedroom: At the foot of the bed, a console table serves as a night stand with storage for reading lights, phones, lotions etc. Frees up valuable space on the bedside tables.
How to Style and Care for a Console Table
Once you have selected the perfect console table for your space, here are some tips to style and care for it:
– Arrange items purposefully on the tabletop rather than haphazardly. Visual balance and symmetry look inviting.
– Display stacks of books, candles, folded linens, trays, plants and family photos for visual interest. Refresh items periodically.
– For a polished look, use runners, trays or bookends to separate zones on the surface.
– Dust the surface regularly with a microfiber cloth. Wipe up spills immediately to avoid water marks.
– Use coasters and placemats underneath items to protect the finish from heat and moisture.
– Clean wooden surfaces with a damp cloth and natural oil to maintain luster. Avoid harsh chemicals.
– Move lightweight items before dusting or cleaning so they don’t get damaged. Pay attention while cleaning around breakable décor items.
With their versatility and ability to visually open up spaces, console tables have remained an essential fixture in homes over centuries. When thoughtfully selected and styled, they add functionality as well as visual appeal to any room in the house. So explore various options to find the perfect console table for your space.
