Console tables and side tables are more than just practical surfaces; they're prime opportunities to inject personality, style, and function into your living space. Whether it's the first thing guests see in your entryway or the handy spot next to your favorite armchair, a well-styled table can anchor a room and showcase your taste.
But how do you achieve that effortlessly chic look without making it feel cluttered or random? It's all about balance, layering, and following a few simple design principles. Here is our beginner's guide to styling your console and side tables like a pro.
Step 1: Start with the Anchor Piece
Every styled surface needs a focal point, especially a console table. This is often something tall that draws the eye and balances the horizontal line of the table.
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For Console Tables: This is usually a large mirror hung above the table or a significant piece of wall art. Ensure it's proportional to the table—aim for the mirror or art to be about two-thirds the width of the table itself.
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For Side Tables: The anchor is almost always a Table Lamp. Choose a lamp that is the right scale for the table and the surrounding furniture. The bottom of the lampshade should sit roughly at eye level when you're seated next to it.
This anchor piece provides the height and visual weight needed to ground your arrangement.
Step 2: Add Height Variation
A common mistake is placing items of all the same height on a table, which makes it look flat and uninteresting. The key to a dynamic look is varying the heights of your objects.
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Create Levels: Use a stack of 2-3 hardcover books (choose ones with attractive spines!) as a pedestal to elevate a smaller decorative object.
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Mix Tall & Short: Place a tall, sculptural Vase (with or without stems) next to a shorter, wider bowl or decorative box.
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Think Vertically: On a console table, you might balance a tall lamp on one side with a grouping of slightly shorter framed photos or candlesticks on the other.
This variation keeps the eye moving and adds visual rhythm to the surface.
Step 3: Layer in Texture & Shape
Styling isn't just about what you place, but what it's made of. Mixing textures adds depth and sophistication.
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Combine Materials: Mix smooth surfaces (like a ceramic vase or glass frame) with rougher textures (like a woven basket, a wooden bowl, or natural elements like dried florals).
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Play with Shapes: Don't just use square and rectangular items. Incorporate round elements like a decorative bowl, a spherical object, or a clock to soften the lines.
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Use Trays: A [Decorative Tray] is a stylist's secret weapon. It corrals smaller items (like keys, candles, or small trinkets) and makes them feel intentional rather than cluttered. It also adds another layer of material and shape.
Step 4: Incorporate Something Living (or Faux!)
A touch of green instantly brings life and freshness to any styled surface.
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Small Plants: A small potted plant like a succulent or snake plant is perfect for a side table.
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Fresh Flowers or Stems: A vase with fresh flowers or even simple, elegant branches adds height and organic shape.
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High-Quality Faux Botanicals: If you don't have a green thumb, realistic Artificial Plants or dried florals provide the same visual benefit without the upkeep.
Step 5: Edit and Balance (The Rule of Three)
Now, step back and look at your arrangement. Does it feel balanced? Is it overcrowded?
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The Rule of Three: Group smaller items in odd numbers, particularly threes. A cluster of three objects (e.g., a small vase, a candle, and a decorative object) often looks more natural and visually appealing than groups of two or four.
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Negative Space: Don't feel the need to fill every inch. Leaving some empty surface area ("negative space") is crucial. It gives the eye a place to rest and makes the arrangement feel curated, not cluttered.
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Function First: Especially for side tables, make sure you leave enough clear space to actually place a drink, a book, or your phone.
Styling is about experimenting. Move things around, swap items out, and trust your eye. With these simple steps, you can turn any console or side table into a beautiful, functional, and personality-filled focal point in your home.
Ready to find the perfect accents for your table?
From statement lamps to unique decorative objects, explore our curated collections to find the ideal pieces to bring your console and side tables to life.