These long, often rectangular tables used mainly as display spaces are normally known as console tables. When used behind a couch, however, they’re referred to as “sofa tables.”

Why is it called a console table?

The console-table was originally so called because the slab was supported upon a scroll-shaped bracket, or upon legs which in form and contour answered roughly to the idea of a bracket. A console-table has a front and two sides; the back, which remains unornamented, always stands against the wall.

What is a console in furniture?

console, in furniture, a type of side table placed against a wall and normally fixed to it, requiring legs or other decorative support only at the front. Because it was viewed only from the front or sides, the back was left undecorated; the top was often of marble.

What are the tables in living rooms called?

A coffee table is generally used in a living room or seating area and placed in front of the couch. You can place food on it, drinks, or use it to display coffee table books, plants, or small knick-knacks.

What is the purpose of console table?

Placed by the entry door, a console table can provide some much-needed surface space for keys, hats, scarves, and other miscellaneous items. When decorated, a console table can greet guests with a preview of your home’s style and add a lovely, lived-in quality to your home.

What are accent tables used for?

Accent tables are the chandeliers of tables. Sure, they serve a purpose — the same way a chandelier adds light to your space, an accent table adds storage. But the real purpose of both is to look beautiful in your home. Your accent table should not only match your home’s aesthetic but elevate it.

What can I use instead of a console table?

Incidentally, a bookcase that’s roughly 30 inches high can also work as a console table in the entryway or a sofa table in the living room. In the dining room, use one as a sideboard, placing the buffet on top and plates, flatware, and napkins below.

How high should console be behind sofa?

Sofa tables, the console table that sits behind the sofa, should be no taller than the height the sofa back. As for size, consoles can be anywhere from half the length to nearly the full length of the sofa (making sure to allow at least 6 inches from either end).

Can you put a bench behind a sofa?

Benches are an ideal shape and depth for placing behind a sofa. You can use the bench for additional seating or perhaps, just for display.

What is the difference between a sofa table and a console table?

A console table is wide, fairly shallow and roughly as tall as a regular table or desk. A console table is often placed against a wall – but when it’s placed against the back of a sofa, it’s called a sofa table.

What is an entryway table called?

A table in a hallway is usually called a console, however, if it is in a hallway towards the front of the home, it can be called an entryway table. These two types of tables are narrow, tall and typically placed against the wall, so as not to block the path of the hallway.

Why are console tables so short?

The low height makes it convenient to rest and reach items like drinks, books, and phones. Whereas a console is wide and narrow and about counter height, the ideal side table is 20 to 24 inches tall and 16 to 22 inches wide.