The console has returned. After many updates about our big console build, this is the official finale — and the most fun part for me, because now it’s all about styling it. I expect the look will change over time, but here’s how it’s arranged today.
The lamps were a splurge for us. I usually set an imaginary $50 limit, but these were $59 each and I couldn’t walk away. They were even marked down from $125, which helped justify the extra cost. When I saw them at Marshall’s I knew they were the perfect mix of shiny and modern to elevate the rustic console.
We added a large capiz-topped black lacquer box from HomeGoods, bought on clearance. It’s ideal for corralling the bits that always seem to accumulate on the sofa — magazines, notebooks, pens, remotes, and even a brush and lotion. The box’s sleek, glamorous look complements the lamps and helps bring some modern chic to the heavy, rustic console.
Most of the other items are things we already owned. I arranged a few stacks of decorative hardcover books that I like to flip through, which also serve a practical purpose: a coaster on top provides a stable spot for my nightly cup of tea. A small white capiz box holds my everyday sofa essentials — lip gloss, vitamins, nail clippers, and the like.
A thrifted quatrefoil tray I found for three dollars sits on the console and keeps my jewelry handy for the moment I sink into my favorite spot on the sectional — the chaise, in case you were wondering.
Inside the console’s middle compartment we keep things organized. The left basket holds board games for family game nights, while the right basket stores a spare remote for the DVD player and a stack of library books we share with Clara — keeping them together makes it less likely we’ll scramble to find one on its due date.
There’s a bit of whimsy too: an old ceramic rhino sits on the console for now. It’s likely temporary — as Clara becomes more mobile I’ll probably move it to a safer place, perhaps back to the built-ins in the dining room. For now it adds personality and a playful touch to the vignette.
For some reason this shot kills me — the little ceramic rhino butt in the background never fails to make me smile.
On the bookshelf sections of the console we used inexpensive baskets to keep things tidy. One basket holds Clara’s board books on the bottom shelf, while the top shelf displays a selection of our books and a small cardboard rhino toy. Two more baskets on the other side store blocks and small toys, keeping clutter out of sight and easy to access.
We expect the console’s contents to evolve. As Clara grows, fragile items will move out of reach. We might also decide to clear more surface space for practical reasons — a large central area is great for a big bowl when guests arrive, but we could want even more emptiness for everyday use. Tweaks will come as the rest of the room comes together: I’m picturing breezy curtains for softness and a larger, more balanced media cabinet down the line.
We even made a quirky video celebrating the console — a playful, slow-motion clip that highlights how the middle compartment opens and closes. It’s silly, but it captures how much we enjoy this piece and the personality it brings to the room.
At night the living room becomes especially cozy. With the ceiling fans and the off-center corner pendant removed, the console lamps and a desk lamp provide warm, layered light that makes the whole space feel inviting. The photo doesn’t fully capture how glow-y and comfortable it feels in person, but it’s a lovely preview.
This console has been a rewarding project from construction to styling. It’s functional, flexible, and full of small details that reflect our family life. We’ll keep adjusting it as the room and our needs change, and I’m excited to see how it continues to evolve.
Psst — you can look back through the console-building posts if you want a refresher on the whole project journey.