Half moon, demi-lune or drop leaf tables work perfectly well as a bar table. Either free standing as a four legged table or attached to a wall as a two legged table, they can serve a useful and practical function as a place to serve drinks as well as snacks at a party. A table used in this fashion takes up far less space and is way less obtrusive than a round table and can even accommodate a bar stool. Similarly this style of table can be used effectively as a bistro table. They will often fit snugly in places where larger round bistro tables will not fit go. Contemporary console tables especially fit this purpose.

Their versatility is quite remarkable. They can be useful in rooms as diverse as your bathroom, study or basement. In your bathroom they can double as a vanity whilst in your study they can be easily utilised as a small desk. Rather than throw out an old worn out table why not put it in your basement where it can be used as storage or work space?

Of course they do not have to be used for only utilitarian purposes such as I have outlined. They are also very successful in adding a touch of class to your home. The Tuscan or Tuscany console table has a reputation of classy elegance and exclusive Italian style. They are not cheap but you generally get what you pay for in life so be willing to pay the price if you want add this level of flair to your home. They are a blend of grace and functionality and certain designs even evoke a French country style. Some are entirely constructed of wood whilst others utilise hand-forged iron bases. Also you can get a glass console table.

Quite amazing isn’t it? The humble console table has such a range of applications.

 
photo credit  highfithome

Step 1

First work out how many tables you are going to buy and where you will place them in your home. Figure out whether their purpose is decorative or utilitarian. Will it complement a study table or serve as a dining bench? Also consider how complementary the tables need to be.

Step 2

Work out a budget. Allow more for the decorative items like a Tuscan console table that will be a feature piece. Consider low cost tables for bathrooms and studies. Putting a boundary on your expenditure before starting your search will help you avoid any spur of the moment decisions that will prove costly in the long run.

Make a decision as to how high your tables will be. Take into account the other furnishings in the room where your table will be placed. Make sure you keep the table in right proportion to the rest of your furniture.

Step 4

Measure the footprint of the areas where your console tables are going to be placed. Get an accurate assessment of the size of table you need to find.

Step 5

Give some thought to the colors of your tables. Will you paint them? Will you prefer to stain the wood a certain color? What colors in the room do you need to match or contrast? You will want to avoid a major clash of colors.

Step 6

This next step is very important.  What shape do you want? The options are many and include half circle, square, rectangular, round, v shaped for  a corner or straight back for a wall. What will suit the room and the feel you are looking to produce. Also factor in the shape of the legs. Some legs are ornate, others plain.

Step 7

Now consider the material. Do you want wood, wrought iron or a combination of both? Do you want a glass console table or one with a marble top? What will suit the furnishings in the room?

Step 8

We are getting close to the end of our process. If you want decorations to be on the table whether they are flowers or artwork choose a table that will go well with the decoration.

Step 9

Ask some of your friends where they bought their tables and follow their recommendations. Also search the net and discover the different options for purchasing.

Step 10

Now hit the shops and enjoy buying those well designed tables that will add beauty and functionality to your home.