How to Series Part 2: How to style an Entryway Console

Do you want to know how you can style your entryway with a console table? Want to make your entryway a great focal point in your home? Here are some tips on how to achieve the perfect entryway in your home.

This is the 2nd installment of my how-to series. You can check out part 1: How to Style a Mantle.

Decorating your entryway is a great way to add your own sense of style and décor to your home. As with all my decor choices, I choose what I love in my home and don’t necessarily follow a particular trend or style. You should do this too.

I like to think that my style is more transitional and classic, with some modern and farmhouse mixed in. However, my style continues to evolve over time. This is a general guide that can be adapted to all decorating styles.

There are many different ways to style your entryways such as adding a large piece of art, a picture grid, a bench or a console table. This blog is all about how to style a console table.

Where to start

The first order of the day is choosing a console table that can anchor the space properly ( i.e you want it proportionate to the wall and area). If it is too small, it can be underwhelming. A table that is too large can make the space feel cluttered.

When styling a console table, you want to make sure that it doesn’t feel messy and untidy (i.e too many objects). Make sure you are using the less is more approach. The console table is the first thing people see when they walk into your home, so it needs to look inviting.

Adding Your Accessories

Depending on the style of the table, you might be able to add items at the bottom. You can add baskets that serve storage needs, small seating, a large vase or figurine, etc. These items should fill the space at the bottom to eliminate visual gaps.

Choose a focal point

The next step is to choose a centrepiece such as a mirror, large art piece or several pieces that go together to add visual interest to the wall and serve as a focal point.

For larger pieces, you can decide to hang it or leave it to lean against the wall. If hanging, try to have it no more than 6-10 inches from the top of the table to create a more cohesive look.

Also, make sure to keep the overall size of the room in mind when choosing pieces. Mirrors tend to make a space feel bigger because it reflects light. Larger pieces of art might work better in a home with taller ceilings.

Layers on layers

The next step is to choose items of varying heights to add some layer and texture to the space. I recommend starting on each end of the console.

Typically lamps and vases are great pieces to balance out each end. I usually go with a lamp on one end, then a vase or other large object of interest on the other.

You can use a stack of books to add height and dimension as well. Once all the big items are added, step back and look at them to make sure that it looks cohesive.

Add the details

The next step is to add small details to fill in the space. You can typically add things like candles, smaller objects of interest such as a bowl with beads, or a tray to corral items.