I love it when I can make simple changes in my home to keep it feeling fresh, whether through seasonal decor swaps, textile tweaks or rearranging larger pieces of furniture. Playing with furniture arrangements might mean changing the layout of a particular space, or swapping pieces found throughout the house.
Having versatile pieces in your home that can be used and styled in different ways makes this process easy and enjoyable. Some of the most versatile and hardworking pieces of furniture are console tables, chests of drawers and accent tables. When styling these pieces, keep in mind that they don’t have to be used as you originally intended when buying them.
This always helps me get and stay creative when selecting a new piece. There are no absolute rules for styling – have fun with it. Let’s jump into some of our favorite ways to use these three versatile pieces of wood furniture.
Console tables: Multifunctional marvels
Traditionally, console tables functioned as wall decorations; think of a floating shelf fastened to the wall, sometimes supported by two front legs. We appreciate their shallow structure and ability to add organization without taking up too much space. Although often understated on their own, consoles’ surface area and negative space allow them to be used and styled in various ways: behind a sofa, parallel to a window, beneath a TV or piece of art, and in a hallway or entryway.
• Behind a Sofa
A console table is the perfect partner for a floating sofa. Placing a console behind a sofa helps visually anchor the upholstered piece and divides a space to create two separate, defined areas. They also make an excellent option for when you don’t have enough space for two side tables beside your sofa.
• Parallel to a window
Although it may not be your first thought, consoles can be lovely under or in front of windows and are a great way to fill empty spaces between drapery panels and add depth. When styling a window console, showcase something that will look great from the outside. Lamps or an impactful statement piece — anything from a flower arrangement to a beautifully styled tray – make for great options. Don’t feel you must style the surface heavily – sometimes the simplest of displays make the most impact.
• Under art or a TV
Placing a console under a piece of art or a television is a great way to incorporate form and function into your space. A console with drawers provides storage and is a perfect solution for hiding some of your television tech. While you can go in various directions here, remember that the focus is the TV or art, so don’t get too crazy. Incorporate books, smaller picture frames, or a pretty tray so you don’t block the focal point.
• In a hallway or entryway
Since consoles are often shallow in depth, they work beautifully in a hallway or entryway and can easily be tucked into smaller, narrow spaces. Incorporating a console adds both beauty and functionality; use the console as a catch-all for your keys and mail and as a place to tuck your shoes underneath. Alternatively, showcase your favorite décor pieces to greet people when they walk in the front door and set the tone for the rest of your home.
Chest of drawers:
Storage with style
Defined as a “case fitted with drawers,” the most common and traditional use for a chest of drawers is to store clothing. Aside from using a chest of drawers for storage, it’s a highly versatile piece of furniture that can serve any space and style. They can shine on their own or complement surrounding pieces. Aside from the typical dresser use, we love to incorporate a chest of drawers as nightstands, as a standalone piece in the hallway, in a bathroom for storage and as a decorative element in a living area.
• A functional nightstand
A chest of drawers is a versatile and fabulous alternative to a traditional nightstand – it adds storage for clothing while still providing a surface to use as a bedside table. Bedside tables don’t have to match; instead, opt for a chest of drawers on one side of a bed to add storage and maximize a small space. If you’re working with a larger room, a chest on either side of the bed creates a luxe look and can help fill the space without overpowering it.
In a hallway or nook
Although you may lean toward narrow pieces in a hallway, if your walkway is big enough or has an empty corner space or nook, consider adding a beautiful chest of drawers. Style it the same way you would a hallway console or catch-all table with lamps, trays, picture frames, hanging artwork or a mirror, and use it as a functional storage piece to keep anything from out of season clothing to holiday décor to kitchen linens.
• In the bathroom for storage
A chest of drawers is a great solution when a bathroom has a decently sized footprint but lacks storage and counter space. Stash linens, toilet paper, and toiletries in the drawers, and use the surface as counter space for your morning and evening routines.
• A decorative piece in a living space
A chest of drawers can add much-needed functionality and storage to living and family rooms. One of my favorite ways to incorporate this type of piece is by popping one between or behind two chairs. A chest can help anchor the chairs and adds a beautiful contrast to soft upholstery. It functions as a surface to place drinks, a canvas for adding décor and accessories, and (you guessed it) storage. Pay special attention to the scale of your pieces – a chest too small or large compared to your chair or chairs will feel off-balanced.
Accent tables:
Functional flair
The term “accent table” is commonly used interchangeably and overlaps with “side table,” “end table,” and “nightstand.” I consider accent tables to be small tables that add a little flare, may or may not have storage, and vary in size and purpose. This may be a place to put your drink, book, glasses or whatever your heart desires.
• As a side table
The most prominent or everyday use of accent tables is paired with seating. Place an accent table between two chairs, paired with a single chair, and on either or both sides of a sofa or day bed. Don’t be afraid to play with scale and style – there’s no rule that two accent tables bookending a sofa must match.
In an entryway or hallway
Like consoles in a hallway or entryway, an accent table is wonderful for smaller spaces. Use it as a functional catch-all or dress it up with a bit of styling. Keep the scale of the piece in mind—accent tables are much smaller than consoles and can shine on their own without too much styling.
• In the bathroom
Incorporating an accent table in a bathroom is a beautiful way to add style to the space. The opportunities are endless—place it next to a standalone tub and use it to store soap, a candle or a book. Similarly, place it outside of the shower to set your towel. In a powder room, accent tables can fill small corners and add a lovely touch when styled with plants or candles.
• As a nightstand
Many accent tables can also function as nightstands. Who says you can’t use an accent table if you’re working with a smaller bedroom space and lack room for a larger nightstand or chest? Pair one with a bed or create balance in the space and place them on either side. If they are large enough to hold whatever you need near you as you sleep, they’ll do the job.
Incorporating versatile pieces like console tables, chests of drawers and accent tables into your home can transform your spaces over and over and offer endless opportunities for creativity. These pieces offer not only functionality but also a chance to showcase your personal style in various ways.
