Jul 19

Jul 19 My 5-Step Process For Styling Any Console

Let’s talk consoles, shall we?

There are a million and one ways to style this functional piece of furniture, and there’s really no right or wrong way to go about it. Isn’t that exciting…and also daunting!?!

I often get asked “how do you know what to put on a….” [insert console, bookshelf, dresser, etc.] to make it functional AND pretty!? So I figured it was due time to share my personal styling tips to pull off a killer console in your own home!

So without further ado, here’s the 5-step process I used when styling our new entry console, that you can easily apply in your own home.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

Assuming you have your console and mirror in place, let’s begin…

STEP 1

LET THERE BE LIGHT!

I like to add a pair of lamps to each side of a console. You can certainly use one lamp, or install a set of wall sconces, but the point is to add height and incorporate another light course, ultimately adding warmth and ambiance to any room.

STEP 2

COFFEE TABLE BOOKS!

Add in 1-2 stacks of books to your console. I usually include 2-3 books for each “stack” and create symmetry on a two tiered console (like mine) by including one stack on the top and another stack on the bottom shelf, opposite side. This creates balance.

STEP 3

WHEN LIFE HANDS YOU LEMONS…

Put them in a bowl and display the citrus outta them! I always have lemons and limes on hand, but if you are a normal person who doesn’t keep citrus in bulk for styling purposes, grab some at your local grocer the next time you’re out. Throw them in a bowl (my preference is white) and set them to the side of the lamp. The yummy, natural citrus aroma is sure to permeate the room and a nice little bonus to this styling tip.

STEP 4

ACCESSORIZE!

Top the stack of books off with a small lidded box and real or faux plant, and in the case of this two tiered console, add in a pair of vases to create height below as well. One larger than the other, this classic vase pairing is a staple in every room I style. It’s the LBD (little black dress) of accessories and a true MVP for any designer.

STEP 5

BOTTLES OF PELLIGRINO.

Or bubble water as we call it in our house. These pretty green glass bottles are the perfect addition to a dining room console, entry console, or kitchen counter. I like to corral them in a bin, but they also work on their own. I often hear “oh fancy” when I add them into my mooboards for clients, but it’s actually an incredibly inexpensive and useful styling trick. (FYI - we buy our cases from Costco or Amazon.)

So there you have it. My easy 5-step process to achieving a beautiful, functional, imperfectly perfect styled console!