One of the most common styling questions we hear is how to style a console table so it feels finished, balanced and easy to live with. Console tables are a staple in UK homes, especially in hallways and living spaces, but they’re often left either under-styled or cluttered.
At Pretty Little Home, we always style console tables using a small collection of versatile pieces you can reuse all year round — trays, candle holders, vases and decorative accessories. This guide shows you how to use those core items to create simple, everyday console table styling that actually works in real homes.
Why Console Tables Work So Well in Hallways and Living Spaces
Console tables are popular because they add visual interest without taking up too much space. They work particularly well:
-
In hallways and entrance spaces
-
Along empty walls
-
Behind sofas
-
In open-plan living areas
In hallways especially, console tables act as a bridge between your front door styling and the rest of your home. This is why console table styling works best when it ties in with wider hallway décor, as explored in Hallway Decor Ideas for Your Home.
Start With a Tray to Anchor the Styling
If there’s one item we use on almost every console table, it’s a tray.
Using a tray immediately gives your styling structure and stops smaller items from looking scattered. When planning console table decor ideas, trays help:
-
Group candle holders and accessories
-
Create a defined styling zone
-
Make everyday surfaces feel intentional
Wooden, ceramic or neutral-toned trays work particularly well for everyday styling and can be reused season after season.
Use Candle Holders to Add Height and Warmth
Candle holders are one of the easiest ways to elevate a console table without overcomplicating the styling.
For everyday use:
-
Choose one or two candle holders rather than a full set
-
Mix heights slightly for balance
-
Stick to neutral finishes or glass
This creates warmth without clutter and allows your console table to transition easily from day to evening. This approach works beautifully alongside the wider ideas covered in How to Style Candle Holders in Every Room, helping your styling feel cohesive throughout the home.
Add a Vase or Decorative Accent for Balance
Every console table benefits from one larger piece to balance the candles and tray.
A simple vase with faux stems or dried flowers:
-
Adds height
-
Softens the space
-
Brings texture without overwhelming the table
We always recommend keeping this piece neutral so it works with seasonal changes. This makes your console table feel styled all year rather than redesigned every few months.
Keep Everyday Console Table Styling Practical
A console table should still be functional.
For hallway console table styling, leave space for:
-
Keys
-
Post
-
A small bowl or dish
Styling should enhance the space, not make it harder to use. This balance between decorative and practical is what keeps console tables looking good long term.
Styling a Console Table for Different Areas of the Home
While hallways are the most common spot, console tables also work well elsewhere.
-
In living rooms, they’re ideal for candles and decorative accessories
-
In dining spaces, they can hold trays and vases
-
Behind sofas, they add interest without blocking walkways
The same core styling pieces work in each location — it’s the arrangement that changes.
Everyday Styling vs Seasonal Styling
At Pretty Little Home, we always recommend building a neutral base first.
Your everyday console table styling should include:
-
A tray
-
One or two candle holders
-
One larger decorative piece
Seasonal décor can then be layered in without removing everything else. This makes seasonal updates feel easy rather than overwhelming.
Common Console Table Styling Mistakes
These are the issues we see most often:
-
Styling without a tray
-
Too many small accessories
-
No variation in height
-
Changing everything seasonally instead of layering
Fixing just one of these instantly improves how your console table looks.
Shop our range of pre set styling bundles, ceramic vases , seasonal decorations and more here.
Styling Inspiration on Social
For more everyday styling ideas and seasonal inspiration, follow us on Instagram and TikTok where we share real home styling using our collections.
Final Thoughts on Console Table Styling
If you’re unsure how to style a console table, focus on a few versatile pieces that work together. Trays, candle holders and decorative accessories form the foundation of timeless console table styling and can be reused across rooms and seasons.
Simple styling not only looks better — it’s easier to live with. For more inspiration or some tips for each season read our blog on Console table styling ideas for every season
