Quick answer: Behind a sofa, choose a console a little shorter than the sofa and no taller than its back. In an entry, 10–16 inches deep keeps the path clear. Hang a mirror or art about two-thirds the console’s width, 6–10 inches above the top.
Entry
A slim console table keeps the hall open.
Behind the sofa
Pair it with a coffee table in the same tone.
Light
Add a table lamp at one end.
Overflow
Put baskets on wall shelves nearby.
Console sizing by location
The right size depends on where the console lives. Use these starting points and adjust to your room.
Entry or foyer
Depth 10–16 inches, height 30–34 inches. Width can be about half to two-thirds of the wall. Leave at least 36 inches of clear walkway in front of it.
Behind a sofa
Choose a height an inch or two below the sofa back, and a length about 6–12 inches shorter than the sofa so the arms frame it. If people will set drinks there, a slightly deeper top of 14–16 inches is more practical.
Under a wall-mounted TV
Look for a console wider than the screen by a few inches on each side, and low enough that the center of the screen lands near eye level when seated.
Styling formula
- One tall item: lamp, vase with branches or a sculpture.
- One medium item: a stack of books or a framed print leaning against the wall.
- One low item: a tray, bowl or small box.
Keep the arrangement off-center for a relaxed look, or mirror it on both ends for a formal entry. Browse curved hallway consoles and our full console collection with these measurements in hand.
Frequently asked questions
How tall is a console table?
Usually 28–34 inches.
How deep for a hallway?
About 10–16 inches.
How wide should the mirror be?
About two-thirds the console’s width.
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