How to choose your console table?

A console table is a long, narrow and relatively tall piece of furniture designed to sit against a wall. Its shallow depth, typically between 30 and 40 cm, makes it the ideal solution for styling a hallway, defining an entryway or creating a visual separation in an open-plan space without obstructing movement.

Wondering how to choose the right console table? Console tables come in a wide variety of styles, colours and sizes. There are several factors to consider before making your choice, and in this guide we'll give you all the advice you need to find the perfect model.

Console table dimensions and key principles

Console tables are generally around 80 cm high and feature a wide, shallow tabletop, usually rectangular or square. The average tabletop depth is 40 cm. Most console tables also include a lower shelf, providing additional storage and display space.

Despite their slim profile, console tables have become essential pieces of furniture thanks to their versatility. Today, they can be used as side tables in living rooms, buffet tables in dining rooms, storage units in entryways, decorative display surfaces or even TV stands in bedrooms.

Key dimensions to know:

7 ways to use a console table

Console table owners are often very creative when it comes to incorporating them into their homes. Here are some of the most popular uses.

As a desk alternative: if you could benefit from a compact workspace but don't have much room, a console table can be the perfect solution. It can also hold a printer and office supplies in your home office. Discover our dedicated guide on choosing a console table to use as a desk.

As a transition piece: open-plan living often requires subtle ways to separate the living room from the dining area or kitchen. A console table is a natural solution. Place it behind your sofa and use it as a bar table or lamp table to create a gentle transition between living spaces.

As a TV stand: thanks to the slim design of today's televisions, console tables are often the perfect width to support them. Their narrow profile also helps save space in the living room while adding valuable storage. If you intend to use a console table as a TV stand, make sure it is sturdy enough to support the weight of your television.

As a home bar: console tables are ideal for displaying glassware and bottles in an elegant yet accessible way. They fit perfectly in a dining room or a corner of the living room, instantly making the space ready for entertaining guests.

As an entryway table: a console table's slim design makes it the perfect choice for an entrance hall or hallway. It's the ideal place to keep keys, scarves and other everyday essentials within easy reach. This is one of the most common uses for console tables today. Discover our ideas for styling an entryway console.

In the laundry room: if you have enough space in your laundry room, a console table can become a practical folding station. It's an ideal surface for folding clothes, towels and bed linen before putting them away.

As a display table: if your living room doesn't have a fireplace but you'd like a focal point to showcase artwork or decorative accessories, a console table is the perfect solution. Position it against a wall and decorate it with artwork, photographs or decorative objects to create an elegant display.

3 key criteria for choosing the right console table

If you're planning to add a console table to your home, there are three essential factors to consider before selecting a model.

1. Intended use: decide before you buy

What will your console table be used for? The answer determines the type and dimensions you need. For example, if you plan to use it as a buffet table in your dining room, choose a model with drawers or shelves for storing table linen or displaying tableware. The intended use also determines the ideal height. If the console will sit behind a sofa, make sure it isn't higher than the sofa's backrest.

For occasional desk use, a tabletop height between 73 and 78 cm provides comfortable ergonomics when seated. For decorative use in an entryway, the standard height of 80 to 90 cm is the most common and practical for placing everyday items.

2. Dimensions: measure before choosing

Where will the console table be placed? In addition to height, you should carefully measure the available length. If it's going in an entryway, for example, make sure it won't obstruct movement for you or your guests.

A useful rule of thumb: a console table should never occupy more than one third of the hallway width. In a narrow hallway or entryway, a depth of 20 to 25 cm is sufficient. In a living room or dining room, you can comfortably choose a depth of up to 40 cm.

3. Material: match your interior style

Console tables are available to suit virtually every interior style, from modern and contemporary to Scandinavian, bohemian and beyond.

The material influences both the atmosphere and durability. A natural wood console table adds warmth and timeless appeal, making it suitable for both contemporary and Scandinavian interiors. A black wooden console creates a striking graphic contrast that complements minimalist spaces. Metal brings a modern touch, while marble adds a bold decorative statement. Explore the full NV Gallery console table collection to discover every available model.

Functional features of a console table

Today, console tables are available in a wide variety of designs. To choose the one that best suits your needs, it's worth considering some of their most common features.

Storage: would you prefer drawers, cubbies, cabinets or shelves? These features are ideal for displaying books, magazines and photographs while also providing practical storage for everyday items.

Material: console tables are available in a wide range of materials, including iron, wood, steel, rattan and more. Your final choice will depend on your personal preferences and the interior style you want to create. Above all, make sure the table is sturdy enough for its intended purpose.

Colour: colour is another matter of personal preference and should complement the rest of your décor. Console tables are available in virtually every colour, making it easy to find one that blends seamlessly with your interior.

Styling ideas for your console table

A well-chosen console table deserves thoughtful styling. The basic principle is to treat the tabletop as a balanced composition by varying heights, coordinating materials and leaving enough space between decorative elements. Here are some combinations that work particularly well.

Table lamps: place two matching table lamps at either end of the console table to create a sense of balance and add character to the space.

Decorative tray: position a decorative tray in the centre of the console to organise or display smaller accessories. It helps structure the surface visually while making it easier to move decorative items when needed.

Books: console tables provide the perfect place to display some of your favourite books, especially when positioned behind a sofa.

Plants: bring warmth and a touch of nature into your entryway or living room by placing plants on your console table.

Mirror: if you want your console table to become a true focal point, hang a mirror above it. Not only is it practical for everyday use, but it also reflects light and makes the room feel larger.

Seasonal décor: a console table is also the ideal place to refresh your décor throughout the year. Add candles and festive decorations during winter, branches and autumn foliage in the autumn, or fresh flowers and Easter decorations in spring, for example.

How much should you budget for a console table?

With such a wide variety of console tables available, there's a model to suit almost every budget. The main factors influencing the price are the construction material, the size of the table and whether it comes fully assembled or requires assembly.

Your final choice should mainly depend on how you plan to use it. For example, you might opt for a more affordable model if the console table will double as a dressing table in your bedroom. On the other hand, you may decide to invest in a higher-quality piece if it will serve as a buffet table in your dining room, where it will be seen by guests.

As a general rule, solid wood console tables and models made from stone or marble represent a larger investment but offer superior durability. Metal or lacquered wood console tables are more affordable while still providing a refined, high-end aesthetic.