Unleash your inner design genius, with the surprisingly satisfying art of console table styling…
A console table can be so much more than a spot for post and car keys. With a little imagination – and a well-chosen lamp or two – it can become a little glowing oasis of beauty in your home: part sculpture, part still life, and part warm welcome. Whether it sits in an entryway, a living room or a bedroom, the right styling will bring depth, balance and a little burst of joy to the space.
Here’s how to work your magic – plus plenty of inspiration from some of our favorite Pooky lamps…
Start with balance
Console tables are often narrow, so everything on them needs to earn its place. Think of your arrangement as a small composition with (at the risk of coming over a little hi-falutin’) balance, rhythm and flow.
- Play with height: Mix taller pieces (lamps, candlesticks, vases) with medium and low ones (books, bowls, framed photos). The variation creates movement and interest.
- Think in layers: Place taller objects towards the back or at the ends, smaller ones towards the front.
- Mind the negative space: Don’t pack it all in – a little breathing room gives everything more presence.
- Groups of three: An old stylist’s trick, but a reliable one. Trios of varying heights are instantly pleasing to the eye.
Anchor the look
A mirror or artwork above the console gives the scene a backdrop and sense of proportion. A large round mirror works beautifully in an entryway, catching the light from your lamps and making the space feel twice as open. In a living room, a framed print or painting can tie your console vignette to the wider color scheme.
If you’re using a mirror, try positioning it so your lamp’s glow reflects softly rather than directly – you’ll get the sparkle without the glare.
Lamps: the heart of the display
A table lamp (or two) brings warmth, texture and life to a console table. It’s what turns a flat arrangement into a living, glowing composition. Choose your lamp for both form and mood:
- A ceramic lamp adds a sense of craftsmanship and permanence.
- Brass or glass brings elegance and shimmer.
- Wood, rattan or stone offer a more natural, grounded warmth.
And don’t forget: with rechargeable cordless lamps, you can style anywhere – no worrying about outlets or cables trailing across the floor.
Styling ideas to inspire
1. Color and pattern: let it sing
A console table is a perfect opportunity to play with color and pattern without committing to a whole-room scheme.
- Choose a lamp base that picks up an accent color from your rug or artwork.
- Pair a colorful base with a patterned shade – or vice versa – for contrast and personality.
- Mix tones within a palette for subtle sophistication: three shades of blue, for example, can look effortlessly pulled together.
2. Naturally beautiful: warmth and texture
For a relaxed, organic feel, combine lamps and accessories made from natural materials – think wood, ceramic, rattan and linen.
Layer in tactile pieces like a woven basket, a pile of vintage books, or a trailing houseplant to soften the edges.
3. Mirror magic: open and brighten the space
Combining lamps and mirrors is a classic Pooky move. The reflection doubles your glow, visually enlarging narrow or dark areas. For extra charm, try a mirror with an antiqued or curved frame – it’ll bounce the light beautifully while adding a touch of vintage character.
A small decorative bowl beneath the mirror is perfect for keys, post or trinkets – practical but pleasing.
4. Tall and bold: play with proportions
If your console sits beneath a large artwork or mirror, a tall lamp can draw the eye upward and balance the vertical space. Offset one tall piece with something substantial at the opposite end – perhaps a stack of books with a vase or a sculptural ornament on top – to keep the visual weight even.
5. Add a personal twist
Don’t be afraid to include small personal items that tell your story. A framed photo, a travel memento, or a vintage find gives the display soul. Style changes easily – swap flowers for foliage, or switch lampshades seasonally for a subtle refresh.
And if your console has drawers or shelves, think of them as part of the look too: a stack of pretty boxes or a woven tray below can extend the styling downward and balance the composition.
At Pooky we believe lighting should make you smile every time you switch it on. Whether you’re going for calm symmetry, sculptural drama or a riot of color, a console table is the perfect place to show a bit of personality. Now get creating!
Browse our full collection of table lamps and find your own perfect pairing.
