Written by in-house designer and stylist Gonia Chylinska.
A console or sideboard is one of the most versatile pieces of furniture in your home - be it a hallway console or a console off the living or dining room. Consoles provides extra hidden storage, displays decorative items and offers plenty of opportunity to style it up in whatever fashion suits your particular taste! But where do you even start when thinking about styling a console? Styling a sideboard, in particular a long sideboard, can be an overwhelming task. I wanted to share some creative processes I use when styling a sideboard so you can experience the full potential of this beautiful piece of furniture.
Finding A Standout Piece
I highly recommend using a standout piece above your console table as the main focus and anchor point. This helps to elevate the look of the console table while centring it in place. Consider an oversized mirror, eye-catching artwork or sophisticated wall clock for visual impact. By styling a large item above your sideboard, you will create visual interest in this area. A bold and beautiful artwork like those by our Artist in Resident Natalie Childs or an ornate mirror can completely change the look of your console, while still keeping space on the tabletop so it stays useful and practical. Place the console in the centre of your space and hang the statement art above or place the mirror on top, either in the centre or off to one side, to instantly create a stunning design.
Leverage Lighting
One effective way to dress up a sideboard is by accenting it with lighting. Table lamps provide focused lighting that works well for highlighting smaller objects on display, while wall sconces cast a cozy ambience across the console top. I suggest using one or two table lamps in a style that complements the existing console table design like our popular Seabreeze Table Lamp. Table lamps can be placed strategically on each end of it to create an inviting atmosphere. If space is limited I opt for wall sconces like our Limnos Wall Lamps. After placing the console in the desired area of your home, try to balance out the console top with two symmetrical mounted wall sconces that draw the eye upwards. You can place the console directly underneath the lights to highlight the console table or the wall sconces could frame the table by being mounted either side of it. Candles, like our pillar candles, can also be used to add an ambiance of aromatherapy.
Adding Decor Pieces
Once you have got your console in place, introduced your boldest pieces (like an artwork) and placed your lighting in a balanced way, the next step is to add smaller decor pieces. A console table is the perfect place to display unique knick-knacks and decor that reflects your personality and style. Add colors through coffee table books, statement vintage pieces or candle stands to bring your console to life. I like to incorporate trays or boxes as a way to organise my belongings on my own sideboard. Be sure to also introduce nature and greenery to the space, through found objects like branches, fresh flowers or faux foliage.
Ensuring Balance
Once I have placed a few large vessels as accents; stacks of books or layered trinkets, I then take a step back from it all. If something appears unbalanced, consider matching the scale on either side of the console table – e.g., balancing out that commanding lamp with another statement piece in similar size/scale!
For a finished space, striking the perfect balance in visual weight in the overall space is essential. To make sure your console is properly grounded and given extra dimension, try adding textural detail such as baskets, stools or statement pieces like large planters on the ground nearby to bring harmony to the room. Remember that whatever you choose should be tall enough so there’s only a small gap separating them from the top of the console - this will ensure it remains perfectly balanced!
These are my tried-and-tested methods of designing an eye catching sideboard while ensuring functionality stays at the forefront. Whether you’re new or experienced in interior styling, creating beautiful moments with a console table doesn’t have to be difficult. If you would like further assistance, I provide styling consultations in store and at home under Few & Far's styling services.
