Media console surfaces vary depending on the size of the console, the color palette, and the overall style (duh). I’m breaking down the top 3 tips for you to create a cohesive, stylish focal point.
1 | USE THE 1|2 METHOD
The overall goal of placement is to create a triangle like shape with your decor.
Starting at the top of your space, place 1 grouping of taller items. I typically like to use groups of 3, however, here the television is the top of the triangle. If you don’t have a tv above your console, then I recommend using a vertical oriented artwork piece placed on the console, not hung, with 2 other staggered items such as a candle and plant.
The next row, you will want to create 2 groupings of items on either side. On the left I have a grouping of a plant, books, a candle and decorative beaded piece with 2 decorative stones on the right. The goal here is to create interest and balance with both vertical and horizontal pieces of varying sizes. The books obvi add the horizontal element and additional interest with the layering of items on top of them.
The 3rd row could be one large horizonatal piece (such as a long, thick decorative branch) or a few peices centered. I used baskets because kids.
At the bottom of the media console, place visually heavy items. If you need extra storage, like me with my 2 kiddos, use ottomans with hidden storage that doubles as extra seating space when needed. When using ottomans under a console, don’t push them all the way in, instead have about 3 to 5 inches of the front pulled out. This adds some depth and interest.
2 | MIX MATERIALS
Basic. But a few things to consider-
- depending on your overall style of the entire room, make sure all materials throughout your space are used on the media console. So if your entire room has iron, dark wood, and natural stones, this should come through looking at just the console.
- Use all colors in your space/ design thorughout the console. If your main color palette is brown, black, and pops of blue, this should be reflected on the console and throughout the pieces selected.
- Group contrasting colors together. For example, the white books here have a black candle on them. Would this look as visually appealing with a white candle? I think not!
- More texture= more interest! What does texture mean exactly? Anything woven, bumpy, or not flat. The sides of this console have some textural interest with the paneling; as well as the tassles on the wooden rope and the vase.
3 | DON’T SACRIFICE FUNCTION
Yeah your space should be “pretty” but first and foremost, function. function. function!
Picture this-
You have a gorgeous space… beautiful white sofa, antique heirlooms on shelves, a $2,000 bench and… children. Not very practical, huh?
I love to use multifunctional pieces being a mother of 2. Ottomans that double as seating and stoarge, the materials of the ottomans being faux leather- a great choice for durability and not breaking the bank if something were to happen to them. And, of course, LOTS of baskets! The three baskets here contain toys for my son, toys for the dog, and toys for the cats. Hidden, but easy to grab when needed.
