If you're exploring the world of interior décor, you're bound to come across an interesting piece of furniture that's taken homes by storm - the console table. Here at the Somerset Workshop, we are a family-run furniture manufacturer committed to creating exceptional, handcrafted pieces to fit your personal style and needs. Today, we're talking all things console tables.
What is a Console Table?
Console tables are much more than a stylish furniture piece. These tables were originally conceived in 17th-century France as small, half-moon tables secured to the wall with S-shaped brackets, also known as 'consoles'. Today, console tables have evolved into versatile pieces, designed to fit into various spaces around your home.
"The beauty of a console table lies in its versatility. It can be a stylish addition to any room, providing additional storage or a platform to showcase your favourite accessories."
This hairpin legs long console table is a prime example. Designed with a sleek aesthetic, this table complements a modern minimalist home or a space with industrial chic.
Where to Place a Console Table
Traditionally, console tables were used in hallways or entrances, hence the popular term, the "hallway table". They offer a convenient surface for keys, mail, and other items you might need to grab on your way out the door. However, console tables are not limited to hallways.
The Living Room
In the living room, a living room console table like this console table with hairpin legs adds aesthetic appeal and function. Placed behind a sofa, an over sofa table can serve as a spot for lamps, books, or even your evening glass of wine.
The Bedroom
In a bedroom, a tall console table can double as a makeup vanity. Simply place a mirror above it, add a comfortable stool, and you're ready to start your day in style.
Over the Radiator
Can a console table go over a radiator? Absolutely! An extendable console table is an ideal choice here. It not only helps disguise the radiator but also adds additional display space for your favourite décor items.
Now that you're acquainted with the various applications of a console table, let's delve into one of our most popular designs—the console table with hairpin legs.
Hairpin Leg Console Tables: A Unique Blend of Style and Sturdiness
Hairpin legs, which first rose to popularity during the mid-century modern era (1940-1960), have come back in style. These durable, minimalist designs offer a trendy solution for anyone seeking a blend of style and stability.
Our black console table with hairpin legs beautifully exemplifies this. The robust, high-quality metal legs provide durability while adding a contemporary, sleek touch to the overall design.
"Wondering how many hairpin legs you need? For a console table, four legs are typical. However, two can be used in combination with a wall support."
As you embark on the journey of choosing the perfect console table for your home, remember to consider the size, material, and colour. Our selection of handcrafted pieces offers something for everyone, from a grand large console table to a slim black hallway table.
In the next part of the article, we'll discuss the differences between a console table and a sideboard, and highlight some of our favorite console table designs.
Console Table vs Sideboard: What's the Difference?
Though both console tables and sideboards provide storage and display space, they each serve a unique purpose and are often found in different areas of the home.
A console table, such as this oak console table with hairpin legs, is typically more narrow and lightweight, making it perfect for hallways, entrances, or behind sofas.
Sideboards, on the other hand, are wider and bulkier. They usually feature cabinets or drawers and are traditionally used in dining rooms for storing dishware and serving items.
"While sideboards offer more storage, console tables are a versatile, space-saving solution, perfect for adding a stylish touch to small spaces."
Our Favourite Console Tables
At The Somerset Workshop, we have a selection of console tables to suit every home and style. Here are some of our favourites:
The Black Walnut Console Table on Hairpin Legs
The black walnut console table on hairpin legs is a marvel of design and craftsmanship. It boasts a rich, black walnut finish, paired with trendy hairpin legs, creating a unique fusion of rustic charm and modern minimalism.
The Long Hairpin Legs Console Table
Looking for something more sleek and contemporary? Our long console table with hairpin legs is an excellent choice. Its longer design makes it a perfect sofa table to go behind your living room sofa, providing a convenient place for setting down beverages, books, or decorative items.
The Black and White Console Table
If you're after a more monochrome aesthetic, our black console table with white hairpin legs is a stylish choice. This design adds a striking touch to any room, whether you're placing it in the hallway as a black hallway table or using it as an under sofa table.
The Oak Console Table
For those who prefer a more traditional touch, our oak console table with hairpin legs offers a blend of classic elegance and modern design. The warmth of the oak, combined with the contemporary style of the hairpin legs, creates a piece that is both beautiful and functional.
No matter your style, there's a perfect console table for you at The Somerset Workshop. When choosing, remember to consider both the aesthetics and functionality of the piece, and how it fits into your overall home design. After all, the perfect console table is not just a practical storage solution, but a statement of your personal style. Happy decorating!
Console Table Q&A
1. Types of Console Tables
Console tables come in a variety of styles including traditional, contemporary, rustic, mid-century modern, and industrial. They can be differentiated based on their design, material, and functionality. For instance, some are designed with drawers or shelves for extra storage, while others are simple and minimalist.
2. Console Tables for Hallways
Console tables are an excellent choice for hallways. They not only provide a place to display decor, but also offer practical storage space. Look for slim, elongated designs that won't obstruct the walkway.
3. Types of Console Tables with Storage
Storage console tables include designs with drawers, shelves, or cupboards. They're perfect for stowing away everyday items like keys, wallets, or mail, as well as displaying decorative objects.
4. Types of Console Tables with Drawers
Console tables with drawers can range from one to multiple drawer designs. They're available in various styles like vintage, rustic, or modern, and are perfect for hiding clutter while keeping essential items within reach.
5. Types of Wood Console Tables
Wood console tables are a classic choice and come in a variety of types including oak, mahogany, walnut, pine, and reclaimed wood. Each type of wood offers a unique color and grain pattern, adding a unique character to your space.
6. Entryway Table Sizes
The size of your entryway table should balance the available space. Typically, console tables are 30-35 inches high and the width can range anywhere from 30 to 60 inches. However, for smaller entryways, a narrow console table around 28 to 30 inches wide may work best.
7. Types of Small Console Tables
Small console tables are perfect for tight spaces. They come in various styles including demilune (half-moon shape), rectangle, and square designs. Despite their size, they can still offer storage with small drawers or a lower shelf.
8. Entryway Table Sizes
When choosing an entryway table, consider both the width and depth in relation to your space. For a balanced look, the table should not take up more than two-thirds of the wall length. As for depth, a slim design of 10 to 12 inches works well for smaller spaces, while larger entryways can accommodate tables 18 inches deep or more.