Top 10: console tables with storage for small spaces

Today we’re looking at console tables with storage for small spaces, the latest in our series on contemporary furniture for small space living.

By definition, console tables are made for small spaces. They’re long and thin and specifically designed not to take up too much room. So they’re traditionally used in narrow hallways, around the sides of rooms or standing behind a sofa.

If you’ve followed this series, though, you’ll know by now that the best furniture for small spaces is not just compact, but versatile and multifunctional too.

So we went on the hunt for contemporary console tables with storage in the form of drawers or shelves. Or both. And I so enjoyed putting this collection together as there are some absolute beauties around. And also because console tables are one of my favourite pieces of furniture.

Why? – two reasons, actually. Firstly, because console tables are so incredibly versatile and can be used as desks, dressing tables and side tables. Forget about just using them in the hallway.

Secondly, because they’re not just about practicality. Used well, even a very small console table can add a huge amount of character to any space, however tiny. It’s a place to create beautiful, personal displays and vignettes with books, trays, ornaments, lamps, candles and plants. In short, a chance to give full rein to your individuality and creativity.

Anyway, let’s get to it – here are my top 10 contemporary console tables with storage for small spaces. I do hope you find one you like. And perhaps some inspiration for your small space living too.

Top 10 console tables with storage for small spaces

1. A streamlined design with staggered shelf sections, the Profile Console Table by West Elm at John Lewis turns everyday storage into a stylish display. Crafted from iron with an antique finish, it has a sophisticated industrial look and the narrow depth of only 25cm makes it absolutely ideal for hallways and very small rooms.

2. The sleek and minimalist Anya Half-Moon Metal Console Table is ideal for long, thin spaces like a hallway. It’s only 31cm deep and the rounded corners save valuable space. This is ideal when placed between or near doorways, as it avoids the problem of potentially walking into sharp corners.

3. The stylish mid-century Scandi-style Mira Console Table is from the range designed by contemporary Danish designer Ebbe Gehl for John Lewis. Smooth, sleek lines and rounded edges are teamed with solid and oak veneer with an oiled finish to create a contemporary yet timeless effect. Not just beautiful, it’s practical too with a roomy drawer and solid shelf providing lots of storage.

4. Add a little opulence to your home with the very petite Merle Console Table from OKA. Its antiqued glass surfaces and distressed gold frame will add warmth and character and bounce light around beautifully. It’s also only 100cm long and 27cm deep, so a useful size for a small room.

5. The Grayson Storage Console Table manages to be delicate in looks yet mighty in storage capacity. Thanks to the clever tambour door that runs the perimeter of the table, the entire space within is given over to storage. We love the nudge to mid-century style too, with those slender, tapered legs and rounded corners.

6. The Heal’s Brunel Console Table mixes black powder coated hairpin legs with solid oak and oak veneers to create mid-century Scandi-influenced “industrial chic” style. And as you can see, there’s a stool and mirror to match. Ta da! – the Brunel console table with storage transforms into a stylish dressing table.

7. The stunning Riviera Console Table, above and below, features a sophisticated colour palette and mix of materials. Designed by Maison Sarah Lavoine, the stylish rattan frontage conceals a handy drawer whilst the black top and green shelf have been crafted from smooth, lacquered wood. Totally swoonworthy!

8. The Garton Hallway Console Table is definitely brilliant for an entrance hall, with shelves that are ideal for shoe storage. But I think it’s a piece that’s endlessly versatile, and would be equally at home in the lounge, home office, kitchen or dining room.

9. I so wish I had room for the easy-breezy Nordal Teak Console Table, above. I’m quite smitten. It’s compact and made from solid teak but the airy, open weave detailing stops it looking too heavy. It comes complete with a glass top, so standing items on it is safe and practical, and the front open downwards to reveal handy storage space. It’s also available in dark stain, which is equally striking.

10. Last but not least is the slim Joss Two Drawer Console Table – it’s only 35 cm deep so ideal for smaller rooms. We love its refined industrial style, the mix of black metal and warm oak wood and those beautifully slender legs and neat little handles.