Quick answer: For an entry, pick a console 30–34 inches high and 12–16 inches deep, leaving 6 inches on each side of the wall. Behind a sofa, match the sofa back height or go an inch lower. In hallways, go shallow (10–12 inches). Choose shelves if you need storage, and style in three layers.
Where it goes changes everything
Console tables are among the most versatile pieces of furniture. In an entry they're a landing spot, behind a sofa they're a lamp table, and in a hallway they add interest to a passageway. Each spot has different size rules.
Decide on the location first, then choose the piece.
Entry consoles
In an entry, a console holds keys, mail and a lamp. A height of 30 to 34 inches and a depth of 12 to 16 inches suit most spaces. Leave at least 6 inches on each side of the wall so it doesn't feel squeezed.
A mirror above makes a small entry feel larger.
Behind the sofa
A console behind a floating sofa gives a place for lamps, books and drinks. Match its height to the sofa back or go an inch lower, and keep it a little shorter than the sofa's length.
A console table with shelves adds storage for baskets underneath.
Hallways
Narrow halls need narrow consoles — 10 to 12 inches deep. A slim, sculpted piece adds character without blocking traffic. Keep at least 36 inches of walkway clear.
Wall-mounted consoles keep floors clear in tight spaces.
Sculpted or simple
A sculpted console table is a statement piece that draws the eye in an entry. Simpler shapes suit rooms with busy patterns or lots of art.
Choose one bold piece per sightline.
Storage options
Some consoles have drawers for keys and mail; others have open shelves for baskets or books. Think about what will live there day to day.
Closed storage hides clutter; open storage displays favorite things.
Style in three layers
Tall: a lamp, mirror or art. Middle: a tray, bowl or stack of books. Low: baskets or a bench underneath. Keep about half the top clear.
Swap accents with the seasons.
Care
Use a tray for keys so metal doesn't scratch the wood. Add felt pads under lamps and vases. Dust weekly and wax once or twice a year.
A console that sees daily use benefits most from a little care.
Console as desk or buffet
A console can do more than hold keys. Pull up a chair and it becomes a laptop desk; set out platters and it becomes a buffet for parties. Choose a height near 30 inches if you want it to double as a desk.
Flexible pieces earn their space in smaller homes.
Measuring before you buy
Measure the wall width, the depth available after door swing and traffic, and any baseboard or outlet positions. Tape the outline on the floor and walk past it a few times.
If you brush the tape, choose a narrower piece.
Pairing with a mirror
A mirror above an entry console bounces light and lets you check your coat on the way out. Choose one about two-thirds the width of the console and hang its bottom edge 6 to 10 inches above the tabletop.
Round mirrors soften straight-lined consoles; rectangular ones suit sculpted pieces.
Lighting the console
A table lamp on an entry console makes coming home in the dark more welcoming. Pick a lamp tall enough to light the space but not so wide that it crowds the top, and use a warm bulb.
A smart plug can switch it on automatically at dusk.
Frequently asked questions
How deep should a console table be?
12–16 inches in an entry; 10–12 inches in a narrow hall.
How tall should a sofa console be?
Equal to or slightly lower than the sofa back.
What goes under a console?
Baskets, a bench or stools.
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