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How Long are Console Tables?
Console tables
Short entryway tables (24–35 inches) are often used in smaller entrances, hallways, or on narrow walls. Their compact size and small footprint make them ideal for apartments or homes with limited space.
Standard entryway tables (36–54 inches) are the most common size range, suitable for most typical entryway and living room walls. Their length is sufficient to support decorative items, lighting fixtures, and everyday objects while maintaining visual balance.
Long entryway tables (55–72 inches) are better suited for spacious entryways, living rooms, or as decorative tables behind sofas. They can fill large spaces and provide more display or storage area.
Category
Length
Short / Compact
24–35 inches
Standard / Average
36–54 inches
Long
55–72 inches
Best Length for a Behind Sofa Table
So, how long should your behind sofa console table be? It depends on the length of your couch and how much visual weight you want the table to carry.
Here’s the general rule of thumb: ⅔ to ¾ of the length of the sofa is ideal.
For example, if your sofa is 90" long, your console table should be around 60" to 70" in length.
This range ensures the table is substantial enough to complement the sofa, but doesn’t overpower it. It also leaves a bit of breathing room at the ends, which looks cleaner and more stylish.
Why this proportion works:
Visually balanced when viewed from the back. Leaves space on either side for floor lamps, plants, or open access. Avoids a “crowded” or forced look.
Bonus tip: If you're styling with symmetrical lamps or matching décor at either end, a longer console table (closer to ¾ of your sofa’s length) can provide a more polished look.
What Counts as a Long Console Table?
While console tables come in a wide variety of lengths, anything between 55 to 72 inches is generally considered a long console table . These sizes work well in living rooms, dining areas, or behind large sectionals where a compact piece might look out of scale.
Standard console tables typically measure between 30" and 50" long—ideal for small entryways or narrow hallways.
Long console tables, in the 55" to 72" range, are perfect for larger furniture pairings, wall art arrangements, or when you need more surface space.
Extra-long console tables, over 72 inches, are designed for oversized sectionals, extended gallery walls, or spacious open-concept layouts where you want to make a bold, balanced statement.
When selecting a console table, keep in mind that a longer piece adds more styling flexibility and visual weight, helping anchor large or empty areas without feeling too busy.
Ideal Console Table (Sofa Table )Height
Console table height typically falls between 28 and 32 inches , with 30 inches being the most common. The intended placement within the home will often dictate the best height.
Usage Scenario / Type
Height (inches)
Height (cm)
Most Common Height
30 in
76 cm
General Height Range
28–32 in
71–81 cm
Behind a Sofa
Same height or slightly lower than the sofa back: 28–30 in
71–76 cm
Entryway / Hallway
28–32 in
71–81 cm
Serving Food or Beverages
30–32 in
76–81 cm
How Deep Should a Console Table Be in a Hallway? The appropriate depth of a console table depends on its location and how it will be used. In hallways—especially narrow ones—shallow depths are preferred to avoid obstructing traffic flow.
Usage Scenario / Type
Depth (inches)
Depth (cm)
Narrow Hallway
12–18 in
30–46 cm
General Storage / Buffet Use
18–24 in
46–61 cm
Desk-Like Console Table
18–30 in
46–76 cm
Large, Open Areas / Next to a Chair
24–36 in
61–91 cm
Traffic Clearance Recommendation
30–36 in of space
76–91 cm of space
How Wide Are Console Tables?
Width (left-to-right length along the wall) measures the horizontal distance from left to right across the front of the table.
This is the dimension that shows how long the console table is along the wall.
Width affects how the table fills the space visually and how much surface area it offers for décor.
Typical widths range from 24–72 inches (61–183 cm) depending on style and placement.
Styling Use Cases by Location
Where you place your console table plays a huge role in determining the ideal size and style. Here are a few popular use cases to guide your decision:
Behind Sofa Table A console placed behind a sofa is perfect for grounding the space, especially in open layouts. Choose a table that:
Matches the height of the sofa’s backrest (typically 30"–32")
Is approximately ⅔ the length of your sofa
Complements the finish and materials of the surrounding furniture
Top with a lamp, framed photos, or a small tray for remotes and drinks.
Entryway Console In the entry, your console acts as both a functional drop zone and a visual introduction to your home.
Choose a narrow profile (depth around 12"–14") to avoid blocking walkways.
Match the length to a mirror or art piece above it to create a cohesive focal point.
Add baskets or bins underneath for shoes, bags, or seasonal accessories.
TV or Media Console Console tables can also double as minimalist TV stands or media units :
Go longer (60"–72") to accommodate larger TVs or dual-monitor setups.
Use the surface for speakers or decorative pieces.
Choose one with built-in shelves or drawers for extra storage.
Whether functional or purely decorative, console tables adapt to your layout—and knowing the right size for each use case helps you make a confident and stylish choice.
FAQs
How Long Should a Sofa Console Table Be? To keep things visually balanced, your console table should be about two-thirds the length of your sofa.
For example, if your sofa is 90 inches long, a console table around 60 inches works well. This avoids the table looking too short or too oversized in proportion to the couch.
How Long Should a TV Console Table Be? When choosing a media console, aim for it to be at least 4 to 10 inches wider than your TV on each side.
So, for a 65-inch TV, a console that’s at least 70 inches wide helps center the screen visually and allows room for accessories like speakers or décor.
Should the Console Table be Longer Than the Mirror? Not necessarily. A common guideline is for the mirror to be about two-thirds the width of the console table.
This proportion creates balance—your table anchors the space while the mirror adds vertical interest without feeling top-heavy.
Example: For a 60" console table, a mirror around 36" to 40" wide is ideal.
How Long Should a Console Table Be Compared to a Wall? If you’re placing a console table along a wall, try to fill at least half to two-thirds of the wall’s length.
For a smaller section of wall—say 72 inches—look for a console table that’s around 36" to 48" long. This keeps the piece from looking undersized or floating awkwardly.
What Size Console Table For a 65-inch TV? TVs are measured diagonally, so a 65" TV is roughly 57" wide.
For proper balance and space for extras, choose a TV console that’s at least 70 inches wide. This ensures your screen looks centered and gives you room for media devices or décor.
Conclusion
There’s no one-size-fits-all console table—but when chosen thoughtfully, it can become one of the most practical and stylish pieces in your home. Whether it’s placed behind a sofa, welcoming guests in the entryway, or used as a TV stand, the right size makes all the difference.
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