Hey y’all!
A few nights ago I shared a photo of my new console table in progress. You might remember the DIY abstract art I finished a few weeks ago—that piece inspired the new table and now I’m ready to style the whole vignette for fall.
I want to keep the beachy vibe of the artwork while adding a few neutral fall touches—nothing too heavy, just cozy accents that complement the piece. Before I commit, I wanted to get a little feedback on how to finish the table styling.
Here’s the picture I posted and the question I asked on Facebook:
I need y’all’s opinion!
Quick background: I plan to add another basket under the table—either a matching one or two new baskets. With a curious baby around, baskets are practical for toy storage and help keep the lower shelf tidy.
My main dilemma is what to put on either side of the art.
I have two matching lamps I picked up on clearance, and I already painted one of them. I also have a lampshade I’m considering.
Here are the options I’m weighing:
- Paint the other lamp to match, or repaint both lamps a new color for a fresh look.
- Replace the lamps with a pair that have a chunkier profile for more presence.
- Keep this lampshade style or buy new shades that better complement the art and table.
I appreciated all the helpful comments I received, and it led me to think more intentionally about layout: should I aim for a symmetrical setup, or a more organic asymmetrical arrangement?
Asymmetrical vs. Symmetrical
The big question was whether to place two lamps (one on each side) and two baskets below for symmetry, or to create an asymmetrical vignette with one lamp paired with taller elements and layered accessories. If I go asymmetrical, should the art remain centered or be shifted slightly off-center to enhance the composition?
After experimenting with pieces I already own, I’m leaning toward an asymmetrical approach that balances height, texture, and visual weight without feeling contrived. I’m planning a quick run to HomeGoods soon to source a few finishing touches.
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Elements for a Beautiful & Balanced Asymmetrical Style
If you prefer an asymmetrical console table, include these essential elements to make the arrangement feel intentional and balanced. These tips will help your vignette look polished and magazine-ready while still feeling relaxed and approachable.
- Interesting lighting: A lamp that overlaps the artwork slightly creates depth and ties the piece into the composition.
- Height to balance: Add a tall element opposite the lamp—like a slender vase, sculpture, or stack of boxes—to balance vertical weight.
- Grounding art or mirror: Leaning art or a mirror provides an anchor for the arrangement and creates a focal point.
- Something stacked: Books, vintage suitcases, or decorative boxes add layers and help vary levels in the display.
- Round shape: Incorporate a round object such as a bowl, vase, or rounded lamp base for contrast against rectangular pieces.
- Rectangular tray: A tray groups smaller accessories (candles, a bowl, or small figurines) and keeps the look tidy.
- Greenery or flowers: Live plants or a floral arrangement add life and soften the vignette.
- Textured baskets or stools underneath: Use these for storage and to anchor the base of the console visually.
lamp / art / flower arrangement / bowl / tray / books / candle holder / basket / table
See if you can spot these essential elements in the vignettes below—each example demonstrates different ways to balance scale, texture, and color.
Image credit: Teal & Lime (School of Decorating)
Image credit: Hudson Interior Design
Image credit: Pottery Barn
Image credit: Jenny Wolf Interiors
I hope these ideas make your next console table styling easier—whether you choose symmetry or an intentional asymmetrical composition. Think about varying heights, mixing shapes, and including a few practical storage pieces to keep the look functional.
What would you add to this must-have list for styling a console table?
If you want to learn how to decorate a console table behind a sofa, check out the post titled “How to Decorate a Table Behind the Sofa {4 Ways!}” for detailed tips and examples.
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