Memphis Modern Console Tables & Sofa Tables
Console Tables Explore
Why We Love Console Tables
Minimalist in nature yet utilitarian in design, modern console tables add just the right amount of storage paired with an attractive aesthetic. A petite surface ledge gives just the right amount of space to sit a few special home accents such as a vase with flowers or some candles. Console tables look beautiful in smaller areas where space is limited. Buffet tables offer a great bit of bonus storage space for just the essentials. Console side tables carry the look to different parts of the room, allowing for convenience and design symmetry. No matter what the use, console tables add beauty and function without taking away from the overall function of the room.
Where a Console Table or Sofa Table Works Best
The best place to put modern console tables may depend a great deal on the existing layout of your home. Some homes have long, open walls where a console table would work perfectly to add color and break up the space. Console tables can also function as sofa tables, fitting nicely behind your couch, and offering a place to set your remote and a snack or drink. Console side tables work nicely when flanking your loveseat or sofa, adding even more convenient surface area. And in dining rooms or kitchens, buffet tables work well near places you will be serving food, giving you an extra strip of space to set dishes and bowls at mealtime.
A Console Table for Every Style
Modern console tables don't necessarily conform to the design standards pressed upon the rest of your home. These tables can add a pop of color or a unique look to the room rather than blending into the background. Consider aesthetically appealing styles by Blu Dot, boasting several color options and clean lines on a minimalistic silhouette. Gus Modern takes an innovative approach, leaving off the back legs in a simple design that marries wood tones and a stainless steel finish. Designs by Calligaris incorporate gentle angles and a lovely look featuring warm wood tones and frosted tempered glass. These modern console tables add instant beauty and functional style to just about any part of the home.
Choosing the Best Console Tables
When choosing buffet tables or console tables for the home, it pays to take a few measurements once you've decided on where your table will go. Look for console side tables to go on either end of your sofa or modern console tables for any number of creative uses. Measure the height of the sofa if you're aiming for a sofa table setup, ensuring both are the same height. If you are adding a console table to a hallway or other open area, ensure the width makes sense for the space. You can always spice up the look with a nice piece of artwork that complements the size and coloring of the table. Always keep in mind the style and size of the room the console table is going in.
Other Considerations
If you like the look of modern console tables, you can easily add a similar theme to other parts of your home. Consider contemporary credenzas for added storage in a stately piece that elevates the mood of the room. Your dining room may also benefit from one of the many buffets and sideboards available, adding storage as well as aesthetics. Lastly, look to the living room furniture category to give the space a much-appreciated refresh spanning from a new coffee table to a relaxing lounge chair.
Console Tables FAQs
What is the point of a console table?
A console table is designed to add both style and practicality to any room. Often positioned in entryways, living rooms, or hallways, these versatile pieces provide convenient storage, decorative display space, and can act as a focal point in your decor. Whether using a modern console table for artistic arrangements or a wood console table for functional storage, it elevates the aesthetic and organization of your home.
Expert Tip: Console tables serve as the "jewelry" of a room - their slim profiles (12-15" depth) allow them to enhance narrow spaces without crowding. The most stylish placements use the rule of thirds: fill the top third with decor, middle third with functional items, and leave the bottom third visually clean.
How do I choose the right size console table?
Selecting the right console table size depends on the available space and intended purpose. As a general rule, your console table should measure approximately two-thirds the length of the adjacent wall or sofa to maintain balanced proportions. Ensure sufficient clearance around the table to move comfortably, and consider the height—typically matching or slightly lower than surrounding furniture—to achieve visual harmony.
Expert Tip: For perfect proportions, the table length should equal the width of any artwork hung above it. In hallways, maintain at least 36" of clearance - this ensures comfortable passage while allowing the table to command attention as a design element.
What are the different types of sofa tables?
Sofa tables, also known as console tables, come in a variety of styles, such as contemporary console tables with minimalist silhouettes, traditional wood console tables with ornate detailing, and sleek black console tables ideal for modern interiors. Additional types include storage console tables featuring drawers or shelves, narrow tables ideal for smaller spaces, and multi-tiered designs that provide ample space for decor and organization.
Expert Tip: The most versatile designs feature open bottoms (no lower shelf) which create an airy feel in small spaces. Look for tables with tapered legs that angle outward slightly - this subtle detail makes them appear even more slender while improving stability.
What is the most popular sofa table size?
The most popular sofa table size is typically around 30 to 48 inches in length, 12 to 15 inches deep, and 30 to 32 inches high. This size accommodates most living spaces comfortably, providing a harmonious balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Expert Tip: The 36-42" range represents the sweet spot - long enough to make a statement but short enough to fit standard wall spaces between doors and corners. This size also perfectly accommodates a pair of table lamps (placed 28-32" apart) for balanced lighting.
What is the correct height for a sofa table?
A sofa table or console table generally stands between 30 and 32 inches high. Ideally, it should match or be slightly lower than the back of your sofa, ensuring a cohesive and functional placement that complements the surrounding furniture.
Expert Tip: The ideal height creates a 10-12" gap between the tabletop and sofa back. This allows easy access to items while maintaining visual connection between the pieces. For sofas with low backs (under 30"), consider a 28" table to preserve proportions.
What kind of wood is best for a console table?
Hardwoods like oak, walnut, maple, or cherry are among the best choices for console tables due to their durability, attractive grain patterns, and lasting strength. Walnut offers a refined, elegant look, while oak provides classic durability ideal for everyday use. Maple and cherry lend warmth and sophistication to contemporary and traditional designs alike.
Expert Tip: Quartersawn hardwood (especially white oak) resists warping better than plain-sawn boards - crucial for long, narrow tables. Look for tables with breadboard ends (properly constructed with room for wood movement) to prevent cracking over time.
How big should a console table be?
Your console table should be proportionate to its surroundings. Typically, it should span about two-thirds the length of a wall or sofa it accompanies, generally between 30 and 48 inches long and 12 to 15 inches deep. The height is commonly around 30 inches, aligning comfortably with standard furniture dimensions to enhance both form and function.
Expert Tip: In entryways, choose tables with depths under 14" to avoid obstructing traffic flow. The top should be at least 4" wider than your largest decorative object (like a tray or sculpture) to create a curated, intentional look rather than a cramped display.
