What to Put Under a Console Table

Console tables are truly one of the most versatile and useful pieces of furniture you can add to your home. A well-styled console table sets the tone for the home when it is in the entryway. In other rooms, a console table can become a gorgeous focal point with the right decorative objects.

But what about the open space underneath them? Should you ignore it or put it to good use?

That's where form meets function. Beauty meets business. Pretty looking meets pretty useful. You get what we're saying?

In this little article, we're going to show you some brilliant and inspiring ways to make the most of the space under your console table.

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General Console Table Decor Tips

We have whole articles about console table decor and what you can do. This isn't the space to write another 3,000 words on the topic. But there are some great general guidelines to keep in mind as you create your decor.

• Add a table lamp. Table lamps go with a console table like roses go with Valentine's Day. They just work. If you're really enjoying the look, use two table lamps!
• Dress the wall. The wall is just as important as the table. We love a round mirror above an entryway table to reflect light and give you a chance for one last check in the mirror.
• Boost visual interest. A vase filled with fresh flowers, some taper candles, or smaller art pieces will all create the look you want to welcome visitors into your home or room.

One of the other things to keep in mind is the function of the table. If it's going to become a gathering place for clutter, then use a table with drawers or some decorative boxes to collect things you also want to keep handy.

So, What Does Go Under a Console Table?

You really have a bunch of options and it depends entirely on what you want and need your table to do for you. You could have some decor items, extra seating, or a shoe rack as a lower shelf. All these, and more, are brilliant ways to make the most of this space.

Let's take a look at each one in a little more detail and show you some inspiring ideas.

Create a beautiful look at the bottom shelf

The first thing you could think about is turning the bottom into a gorgeous little space. Think about the rest of your room. What will really complement the space and make it beautiful?

Look at these gorgeous little plants! Some fresh flowers or fresh greenery adds visual interest to the bottom half of the room. Choose this style if you want to keep eyes down and focused on the room.

These lovely little vases in a collection really work well with a modern console table. We absolutely love the slight variation in height leading to the plant and breaking up the strong parallel lines of the table, floor, and ceiling.

You can use books, plants, and lots of items to balance a large mirror or gallery wall. This is a great look for a more formal, structured home. It's maybe not the thing to put next to your front door, but it would look amazing along that empty wall in your living room or sitting room.

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Opt for extra storage

A console table is almost always in a useful place. They are in hallways or near doors. You can use console tables as storage spaces if you are careful about keeping the clutter under control.

Place baskets under the table as gathering points for things you pick up all the time. Open consoles are great for this because baskets will tuck right underneath. You don't have to fill the entire space, but a couple of tidy baskets will give you a place for a few kids' toys, extra fashion accessories, or a blanket or two.

Even without baskets, a lower shelf can be the go to place for storage. Simply stack some cushions or throw pillows in there so they are handy but out of the way. This is a great way to display your soft furnishings without cluttering up the sofas too much.

Of course, you can combine shelves and drawers for even more storage. This is great for creating a clutter-free zone in your hallway since keys, dog leashes, and pocket stuff can be hidden away. While we're not a huge fan of shoes under console tables, that's also a very useful option!

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Create extra seating and serving space

A console table in your dining room or living room can be used as a place to store a couple of extra seats. Stools, ottomans, and simple chairs will slide right under the table where you can pull them out when you need them.

Look at those gorgeous little ottomans! The rattan and canvas look is a great way to decorate two extra seats. We also love the symmetry of the two table lamps matching the two seats. You can see how these aren't just decorative objects, but a genuinely useful addition to your living room.

Okay, that's a cool table lamp... But just look at those seats! Those stools can slide right under the console table and they blend in perfectly. In a dining room, though, those will be easy to pull up to the table when there are extra guests. Or, they could eat right at the table.

Here is a great combo: seating and storage. Seats under console tables can also be used for storage. This is a great idea if the items inside are a little messy, like coats, hats, and gloves. The seats are useful near the front door to take shoes on and off. If there aren't too many people, the shoes will fit inside!

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Finishing the Look

Decorating is all about inspiration. Think about what you have around or want to feature in your home. We love the look of a large piece of art or mirrors on console tables. Soft lighting from a lamp or lamps can be brilliant in a hall or behind a sofa.

But use what you love. My mother's console table was a converted antique sewing machine. The detail of the control pedal near the floor was always a nice look. If you're a plant guru, fill the space with multiple levels of fresh plants to create a green oasis focal point.

FAQ

What do you put in baskets under a console table?

You can put almost anything down there! But try to choose things that will be useful in the room. So, gloves and waterproofs near the front door and throw blankets in the living room. Try to choose things that will stay hidden if you want them to or be cute if you want to show them off.

How do you style a bottom console table?

Styling the bottom of your console table depends on its function. If you want storage, opt for ottomans that double as seats and storage. USe a shelf with plants or decorative objects if you're trying to create a visual focal point.

What do you put on the bottom shelf of an entry table?

You could turn the bottom shelf into storage. But there are many other cool ideas, such as a showcase for some of your collectibles, a small green oasis with some nice plants, or a spot to stack your favorite books or photo albums where you can pull them out for visitors.

What is the purpose of an entryway console table ?

An entryway console table can do a few things:

• It makes a visual statement when anyone enters your home. Use colors, light, and decorative items to set the mood for the rest of your home.
• If used with smart storage items, an entryway table can also be a landing pad for all your gear when you walk in the door.
• The mirror above a console table can be the last place you stop to check your look before you leave.

Balance function with fashion and use your console table as a focal point and a functional place.