Top Places to Put a Stylish 40-Inch Wide Console Table

A console table can be an extremely versatile piece of furniture. With its long and narrow profile, a console table fits well in many spots throughout your home to provide decorative flair and functional storage. One popular width for console tables is 40 inches wide. This dimension offers ample surface area while still fitting into tighter spaces. If you're looking for the perfect spot to add a chic 40-inch wide console table, read on for our top picks for placement.

Behind the Sofa

One of the most classic placements for a console table is behind a sofa or sectional. The space behind a sofa often ends up underutilized. Adding a console table here can transform this "dead space" into a functional design element.

A 40-inch wide console table fits perfectly behind many standard sized sofas. The long rectangular surface will span the width of the sofa, providing a natural spot to set down decor items and accents. A console behind a sofa creates a stage-like setting, letting you display books, plants, photos, sculpture and other cherished pieces.

When positioning a 40-inch wide console table behind a sofa, be sure to leave adequate clearance for walking around both sides and accessing the sofa. A minimum of 18-24 inches is ideal. Measure carefully to get the right fit.

This space is also a great spot for a console with open shelving or cabinet storage. Use woven baskets or decorative boxes to corral remote controls, throw blankets and other living room accessories. The storage helps keep clutter out of sight.

Entryway

Another excellent spot for a 40-inch console table is in the entryway or foyer. This high-traffic area is often tight on space, so a console table is a perfect fit.

Place a 40-inch console table near the front door to provide a designated landing zone. Add a tray to collect keys, sunglasses and other daily carry items. Install a mirror above to give yourself a final glance as you head out the door. This setup transforms your console into a functional and charming welcome area.

A 40-inch entryway console also works well for storing mail, leashes, dog bowls and other incoming items. The long narrow surface gives you a place to sort these items before moving them to their final home. Built-in drawers or shelves provide hidden storage to keep things neat.

Hallway

In a long, empty hallway, a console table can be the perfect addition. Floating down the center of the hall, a 40-inch console table breaks up the space visually. The surface also provides a handy place for decor, photos or storage baskets.

Use your 40-inch hallway console as a drink serving station when entertaining. Add a few bar stools for extra seating during parties. Or utilize it as a work zone by adding a desk lamp and notebook--a mini home office perfect for small spaces.

Dining Room

In the dining room, a 40-inch wide console table makes for an excellent sideboard alternative, especially in cozy spaces where a full-sized sideboard won't fit.

Flank a console table along the side or back wall of the dining space to use during meals. Add serving dishes, platters and baskets of dinnerware. Insert a wooden chopping block for prepping side dishes. The tabletop gives you extra room to plate food or stage dishes before carrying them to the main table. Add a few candles and a floral arrangement to up the ambiance.

A dining console table also works beautifully for storing wine bottles and glassware. Built-in shelves or wine racks allow you to neatly display your collection. Place the console along the wall near where drinks will be served for easy access.

Home Office

For a small home office, a 40-inch console table can pull double duty as a compact desk. The simple and streamlined silhouette fits perfectly into a corner or along a wall.

A console table desk gives you just enough workspace for a laptop, books and a few accessories while taking up minimal visual space. Look for a console with drawers to stash office supplies, chargers and any other clutter you want to keep out of sight.

To complete the desk setup, install a swing arm desk lamp for task lighting. If needed, add a keyboard tray or USB hub for extra functionality. With the right styling, your office console table can look chic rather than cluttered.

Bedroom

In a small bedroom, a 40-inch wide console table makes for an understated nightstand option. The clean-lined rectangular shape takes up less visual space than a traditional nightstand with more details.

Place your console nightstand on one or both sides of the bed for a spot to set down bedside lamps, books, glasses and alarm clocks. The long surface gives you ample room while remaining compact. For more storage, opt for a console table with built-in drawers or shelves.

A console nightstand also works well in guest bedrooms. The simple table blends in discreetly against the wall, letting guests arrange their personal items without feeling imposing. For safety, be sure to leave ample clearance around the sides of the bed.

Pros and Cons

While a 40-inch wide console table can work wonders in many rooms, it's wise to consider the pros and cons before purchasing:

Pros:

• Fits smaller spaces other furniture can't
• Provides both decor surface and storage
• Understated, versatile silhouette
• Narrow depth doesn't obstruct walkways

Cons:

• Limited surface area
• Not as much storage as some sideboards
• Won't fit larger items

Take measurements of your space and assess your needs to decide if a 40-inch console best suits your home.

Styling Tips

Once you've settled on the perfect spot, a few styling tips can help you design a beautiful, functional 40-inch console table:

• Choose a material like wood, metal or marble that fits your existing decor - sleek and modern or traditional warmth.
• Incorporate baskets, trays and boxes to conceal clutter in storage compartments.
• Use a decorative bowl or tray to catch keys, mail and other everyday items.
• Add accent lighting like a table lamp or sconces for ambiance.
• Style symmetrically with pairs of objects like candles or floral arrangements.
• Select leg shapes and heights that match the proportions of your space.
• Layer textures with items like throws and ceramic vases.
• Keep scale in mind - a massive piece will overwhelm a petite console.

Edit your accessories regularly, maintaining an uncluttered look so the table's surface doesn't become too crowded.

Shopping Tips

Ready to find the perfect 40-inch console table for your home? Keep these tips in mind while browsing:

• Look at reputable furniture brands like IKEA, Pottery Barn and West Elm for quality and selection.
• Consider wood types like oak, walnut and teak for beauty and durability.
• Assess drawer, cabinet and shelf storage to meet organizational needs.
• Measure intended space carefully to confirm ideal height and width.
• Read reviews to gauge quality of materials and ease of assembly.
• Compare prices across retailers to find deals.
• Determine ahead of time the ideal style (modern, traditional) and color.
• Inquire about warranties to protect against defects.

Purchasing online can help you find your perfect 40-inch console table conveniently. Double check shipping fees, assembly services, and return policies before buying.

With its versatile size, a 40-inch wide console table can transform empty spaces throughout your home. Place it strategically behind your sofa, in the entryway, along a hallway or in the dining and bedroom. The compact silhouette slips easily into small areas without clutter. With the right styling, a 40-inch console table can be both functional for storage and decor.

Keep measurement logistics, design style and purpose in mind as you shop. A thoughtfully placed and styled console table can be the missing decorative touch you've been searching for in any room. Go ahead and give this versatile piece of furniture a try - your home is sure to thank you.