An entryway table can be one of the most useful yet underutilized pieces of furniture in a home. While most homeowners opt for a standard-sized console table around 40-50 inches, there are some clear advantages to choosing an extra-long option like a 70-inch entry table instead.
With its slim profile and expansive tabletop, a 70-inch entry table provides ample space to display decor while fitting perfectly behind your living room couch or into a tight hallway. It effortlessly maximizes the often neglected area in your entryway or foyer. But how exactly do you decorate and style such an exceptionally long narrow table? Read on for our top tips and tricks.
Choose the Right Spot
When working with an extra-long 70-inch entry table, placement is key to taking full advantage of its lengthy proportions. Here are some of the best spots to position this narrow piece in your home:
- Entryway or foyer – Situate the console table against a wall in your entryway to make a stellar first impression on guests. The table provides plenty of real estate to show off decor and helps define the entry space.
- Behind sofa – Tuck the slim table neatly behind your living room couch or sectional, utilizing the awkward space that normally goes unused. Angling it diagonally can add visual interest.
- Long hallway – Line the console table up along a lengthy hallway or corridor to add functionality and style to what might otherwise be a blank wall space.
No matter where you put it, make sure you have enough room to take advantage of the table’s full 70-inch length. This allows you to maximize the display and storage possibilities.
Select Complementary Decor
When styling any console table, it’s important to choose accessories and decor that complement your existing furniture and home. This ensures your 70-inch entry table enhances rather than clashes with the rest of the space.
Some types of decor that pair beautifully with an extra-long console table include:
- Framed photos and artwork – Scale up your wall decor to balance out the table’s long proportions.
- Sculptural vases – Make a statement with a series of varying-height vases marching down the tabletop.
- Books and trays – Break up the table length by staggering books, decorative boxes and trays down the center.
- Plants and florals – For a burst of life, mix faux or fresh florals with trailing ivy and potted plants.
- Candles and lanterns – Add ambiance and dimension with clustered pillar candles or a mix of lantern styles.
Whether your interior leans traditional, modern, rustic or bohemian, there are plenty of accessory options to personalize your 70-inch entry table.
Use for Display and Storage
One of the biggest advantages of choosing such an exceptionally long and slim console table is the ample tabletop space it provides. Take advantage of the generous surface area as both a decorative display and a functional storage solution.
For display purposes, you can fill the length of the table with an eclectic mix of objects like:
- Framed family photos
- Floral centerpieces
- Scented candles and lanterns
- Coffee table books
- Potted plants or small tree
- Sculptures or collectibles
And don’t forget that a console table can also double as discreet storage to corral entryway clutter. Use baskets and decorative bins to store items like:
- Mail and keys
- Umbrellas
- Handbags
- Dog leashes and toys
- Scarves, mittens and hats
For even more storage capacity, look for a 70-inch console table with built-in drawers, shelves or cabinets. This takes organization to the next level.
Balance Height and Scale
When working with an exceptionally long, narrow table, it’s important to anchor it with decor of varying heights. This helps balance out the exaggerated horizontal scale.
Some options for adding height include:
- Floor lamp or tall plant
- Sculpture or stacked books
- Leaning mirror or framed artwork
- Tall vase with branches
- Cluster of candle pillars
Placing decor of different statures along the length of the table prevents it from seeming overwhelmly long and bare. Don’t be afraid to go bold with your height choices either – this makes the 70-inch span feel more proportional.
Experiment with Length
One of the fun aspects of styling an especially long console table is playing around with unexpected lengths. For example:
- Go asymmetrical: Instead of centering the table on the wall, try placing it slightly off-center for an asymmetrical, gallery-wall effect.
- Only use a portion: You don’t have to fill the entire 70-inch tabletop. Leaving an end bare can give it a casual, collected look.
- Angle it: For real drama, place the table diagonally in a corner. The angled shape and pointed end creates visual interest.
Feel free to embrace the full 70-inch span or just a snippet. Either way, the proportions are sure to impress.
Finishing Touches Matter
When styling your extra-long entry table, don’t underestimate the impact of those small finishing touches. Tiny accessories might seem insignificant, but they add up to create a collected, curated look.
Some refinements to consider:
- Trays and catchalls to corral smaller items
- Small framed photos to fill in gaps
- Sculptural bookends and paperweights
- Lanterns and candleholders for ambient lighting
- Natural elements like sand, stones, shells and greenery
Avoid clutter by keeping surfaces streamlined and thoughtfully edited. Rotate out accessories seasonally so your tabletop remains fresh.
Try Two-Toned Appeal
One trendy technique for styling a console table is choosing a two-tone color scheme. This adds striking visual contrast.
Some two-tone combinations to try include:
- White tabletop + black metal legs
- Wood stain top + black/brushed brass base
- Marble-patterned top + gold legs
- Glossy painted top + matte painted base
A two-tone 70-inch entry table immediately catches the eye. It also allows you to match the table finish to your existing decor, keeping the overall look cohesive.
Choose Durable Materials
Since your entry table will likely see lots of high-traffic use, opt for durable, wear-resistant materials built to last. Some smart choices include:
- Wood: Oak, acacia and teak wood offer resilience against scratches and dents.
- Metal: Powder-coated steel or wrought iron provide industrial-grade toughness.
- Stone: Natural stone surfaces like granite can take a beating and still look beautiful.
Also, seek out kid and pet-friendly materials that can handle bumps and spills. Water-resistant surfaces are useful for displaying flower vases or bottles.
Review the Return Policy
Before committing to a 70-inch console table, be sure to vet the retailer’s return policy and warranty. This provides peace of mind in case any defects arise.
Some things to look for include:
- Solid product warranty (at least 1 year)
- Return window of 30 days or more
- Responsive customer service
- Free shipping and returns
Also, read product descriptions and reviews to gauge the ease of assembly. Complicated setups with unclear instructions can quickly lead to frustration.
With so many 70-inch console table options on the market, it’s smart to comparison shop before deciding. Weigh the pros and cons of each table based on:
- Color selections
- Storage features
- Style and design
- Quality of materials
- Price point
- Customer reviews
Narrow down your top choices, and if possible, see display models in person. This ensures your 70-inch entry table aligns with your vision and suits your home decor style.
A 70 inch console table can transform a boring entryway. The exceptionally long and slim profile provides plenty of flexibility when it comes to decorating possibilities. Follow these top tips, embrace your creativity, and enjoy showing off your stylish space.
