Hi everyone!
A few nights ago I shared a photo of my in-progress console table. If you remember, I posted my new DIY abstract art a few weeks ago and I’m now ready to finish the rest of the table and add some fall touches. A beachy art piece can work well with autumn accents, so I’m planning to try a neutral, seasonal look that still feels coastal.
I asked for input from readers and friends on social media and wanted to share the ideas that came back, along with the plan I’m leaning toward. Below is the photo I posted and the question I posed to get opinions.
I appreciate all the feedback, and I want your opinion too. Here are the key decisions I’m weighing and what I learned from the responses.
Under the table I plan to add another basket. It might match the existing one or I might use two different baskets. With a baby who will reach for anything left on the floor, baskets filled with toys are a practical and attractive solution.
On the tabletop I’m debating what to place on either side of the art. I currently own two matching lamps I picked up on clearance. I painted one of the lamps already, and I have a lampshade from the same store.
The questions I’m considering are:
- Should I paint the other lamp to match the painted one, or repaint both in a new color?
- Should I replace the lamps entirely with something chunkier or more substantial?
- Should I get a second lampshade like the one I have, or choose new shades that better suit the finished look?
Asymmetrical vs. Symmetrical
The most helpful feedback I received focused on whether to style the console symmetrically—two lamps flanking the art with matching baskets below—or asymmetrically—one lamp and a more organic arrangement of accessories. Both approaches can look great; the choice depends on the mood you want to create.
If I choose asymmetry, I’m also deciding whether the art should remain centered or be slightly off-center to complement the overall composition. Right now I’m leaning toward a balanced asymmetrical approach that still feels intentional and cohesive.
I’m planning a quick run to a home store for a few extra pieces, and I’ve been studying examples to identify the recurring elements that make asymmetrical console styling work well.
Elements for a Beautiful & Balanced Asymmetrical Style
When creating an asymmetrical vignette, aim to include a variety of shapes, heights, textures, and grounding elements so the arrangement feels deliberate and balanced. The essentials to consider are:
- Interesting lighting: A lamp with character helps anchor one side. If the lamp overlaps the art slightly, it can create depth and cohesion.
- Height to balance: Opposite the lamp, add a tall element—such as a vase, tall candlestick, or stacked items—to visually counter the lamp’s height.
- Grounding art or mirror: Whether it’s hung or leaning, art or a mirror provides a backdrop that ties the whole vignette together.
- Something stacked: A small stack of books, vintage suitcases, or decorative boxes introduces layered height and interest.
- Something round: Include at least one rounded shape—a bowl, vase, or rounded lamp base—to contrast the rectangular lines of the table and art.
- Rectangular tray: Use a tray to group smaller accessories like candles, a decorative bowl, or a small figurine so they read as one cohesive unit.
- Plant or flowers: A touch of greenery or fresh flowers brings life and softens the arrangement.
- Textured baskets or stools underneath: These add balance, storage, and visual weight at the base of the table.
Below are a few inspirational vignettes I reviewed while planning. Notice how they use the elements above to feel collected and intentional. Each example balances scale, texture, and negative space differently, which is what gives each setting its unique personality.
Credit: Teal & Lime (School of Decorating)
Credit: Hudson Interior Design
Credit: Pottery Barn
Credit: Jenny Wolf Interiors
I hope these ideas make styling your console table—whether symmetrical or asymmetrical—feel more approachable. A few well-chosen elements will make the whole vignette look curated rather than cluttered.
What else would you add to this list of must-haves for a successful console table vignette?
If you want tips for styling a console table located behind a sofa, check out the related post on that topic available from the same source.
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- How to Style a Console Table Behind a Couch (4 ways)
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