Console Tables for the Home

Console tables don’t seem to get the respect they deserve. They are one of the specialty tables you’ll find in homes everywhere, but few people really know what they are or what their purpose is. Often they simply mistake them for another tall table in the home, the sofa table.

This isn’t too surprising, since most console tables are rectangular in shape, though half-oval and semicircle console tables are also popular. Basically, it’s any table that is long and narrow and which can easily fit in the living room, but also works equally well in a narrow room, hallway or entryway.

That’s really where these tables found their niche – in a hallway or foyer. They are a great place to establish the tone of the home. For example, you can use the table to show off the latest family photos, showing visitors how much family means to you. Or you can have a few pieces from your collection of fine antiques. They also allow you to keep certain items handy, such as your pair of leather gloves, at the ready on a cold winter day and easy to find. Console tables can also be used to keep your glasses, mail, dog’s leash or any other regularly used items handy.

Originally, you’d find console tables that were actually mounted to the walls. There were no back legs. They were often paired with sconces and even a mirror. Today, they’re more mobile than their ancestors, gaining rear legs so they can be used virtually anywhere in the home, no installation required.

While console tables are more mobile, many homeowners still add a mirror on the wall behind it, keeping their hairbrush and other last minute touches at the ready in a table drawer so they can do a brief check before heading out to work or a date.

Because these console tables can be used virtually anywhere in the home, their versatility is one of their most prized features. For instance, you can place one at the end of a hallway or at the bottom of a staircase (a very handy addition for getting things from one floor to another).

But don’t think for a moment that these tables are only designed to shuttle stuff from one place to another. They can be used for a variety of purposes, such as holding some of your favorite first edition books, your Wii or wifi boombox. You can also use them to display a spray of flowers or cards from your birthday or anniversary.

When the holidays roll around, you can press your console tables into service as a place to hold your china, service pieces, utensils and napkins. Or you can set up a wonderful wine and cocktail bar on the table, freeing up space on your main dining room table or buffet.

When selecting the perfect table, you want to make sure that it fits the space you have in mind. Start by taking measurements of the area that will host the table and then shop with this in mind. Console tables come in any number of sizes and shapes, so you want to select one that not only fits the space available, but the style of the area in your home, too, This ensures that you will end up with a table that not only meets your needs, but also fits into your decor.

You’ll probably find the best selection of tables on the Internet. Online furniture retailers offer a wide selection, often far wider than you’ll find in traditional furniture stores. Online retail aisles are virtually limitless, offering you the latest styles from major manufacturers.