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Have You Ever Struggled with trying to Style Shelves or a Console Table in your Home?
You’re not alone!! Achieving that effortless, magazine-worthy tabletop arrangement can feel deceptively tricky. Too much decor, and it looks cluttered. Too little, and it feels unfinished. And how do you balance height, proportion, and texture while making sure it all complements your space?
Don't worry, we’re here to take the guesswork out of styling. Whether it’s a grand entryway console or a sophisticated coffee table at the heart of your living room, we’ll walk you through our simple formula to creating a foolproof design each and every time. So join us as we go through this step-by-step process and share our secret formula to making your design look intentional, refined, and seamlessly curated.
To make the process even easier, we’re also sharing where to buy all of the featured items directly in this article. At OC Design, we use SideDoor, a unique online platform that gives designers direct access to over 200 high-end brands, allowing us to curate and offer exclusive, trade-only furnishings and decor to our clients. We've hand selected a list of over 140 items, many of which are featured throughout this guide. You’ll find examples featuring stunning pieces available through SideDoor, so you can easily shop designer-approved decor that brings your vision to life.
Questions? If you have any questions regarding the items you see on our SideDoor Shop page? Looking for a specific item?
How to Style a Console Table Like a Designer
A well-styled console table makes a statement. Whether in an entryway, hallway, or behind a sofa, it should serve both form and function. Here’s how to get it just right:
Step 1: Choose the Right Console Table
Before styling, ensure your console table suits the scale of your space. It should be proportionate to the wall or area it occupies.
General guidelines:
Standard height: 30-34 inches
Depth: 12-18 inches (slimmer for small spaces, deeper for grander looks)
Length: Should be at least two-thirds the width of the wall or sofa it sits against
Current Trend: Mixed-material console tables—think marble tops with metal bases or wood with sculptural elements—are popular for their visual contrast and modern appeal.
Step 2: Start with a Statement Anchor
A large-scale focal point above the console grounds the design.
Consider:
An oversized mirror (ideal for adding light and depth)
A striking piece of artwork (for personality and color infusion)
A sculptural wall accent (for modern, textural interest)
Pro Tip: A mirror should be at least two-thirds the width of the console. If using artwork, hang it 6-8 inches above the table for a cohesive connection.
Step 3: Layer in Height with Lamps or Tall Objects
Add verticality with a chic table lamp (or a pair for symmetry) or tall sculptural objects. This creates a balanced silhouette.
Good Height Rule: Table lamps should be around 24-34 inches tall to complement the console’s height.
Step 4: Introduce Medium-Scale Decorative Elements
Next, layer in medium-height pieces like vases, candlesticks, or books. We do this by picturing a triangle, keeping both smaller and medium size objects and You want to use that for the smaller objects This helps bridge the gap between taller and shorter elements, ensuring a natural flow.
To do this we utilize the Golden Triangle. The Golden Triangle provides the perfect approach to arranging decor on any shelf, cocktail or console table because it naturally guides the eye, creating a harmonious and visually balanced composition.
By positioning your decor pieces in a triangular formation—placing taller items at one point and gradually stepping down with medium and smaller elements—you achieve depth, movement, and an effortlessly curated look. This technique prevents a flat or cluttered appearance while ensuring each piece complements the overall design. Whether using a lamp, vase, or sculptural accent, the Golden Triangle helps structure your styling with elegance and intention.
Step 5: Balance with Low and Grounding Elements
Use decorative trays, stacked books, or bowls to create grounding layers. Trays help contain smaller items like candles and diffusers, keeping the styling intentional rather than chaotic.
Step 6: Add Personal Touches & Greenery
A console table shouldn’t feel like a showroom. Add personal touches like framed photos, travel mementos, or a small plant for freshness.
Trending Now: Large-scale statement greenery, such as olive branches or sculptural dried florals, is a go-to for modern elegance.
And one more.....
Prefer to get some outside help? Let us curate the perfect design for you with our ‘Designer for a Day’ Service
Even with the best tips, styling a console or coffee table can still feel overwhelming. That’s where our Designer for a Day service comes in.
This exclusive package provides 20 hours of professional design assistance, allowing you to get expert guidance on color schemes, furniture placement, decor selection, and more—whenever you need it throughout your project. Whether you’re refining the final details or starting from scratch, our experienced designers are here to ensure your vision comes to life effortlessly.
Ready to achieve a perfectly styled home? Learn more about our Designer for a Day service here and let’s create something beautiful together.
We would love to hear from you! [Scroll Down] & Comment below or send us a message and let us know which of these tips you will be trying out?
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