Placing consoles in pairs: symmetry in the entrance area
Two identical consoles, set up as mirror images, give an entrance area order and a clear centre. The principle comes from classical interior design and suits hotel lobbies, restaurant foyers and formal corridors well. For the effect to come about, however, the axis, the distances and the decoration must be exactly right. Even a few centimetres of deviation are more noticeable in a symmetrical arrangement than in a free one. The following sections show where a pair makes sense, how to set the axis and distances, how the decoration is arranged and what to watch for in daily operation.
Where a pair of consoles makes sense
A pair needs a shared centre. This can be a door, a passage, a fireplace, a staircase or a reception desk. The two pieces frame this element and draw the eye towards it. In narrow corridors two consoles can also stand on opposite walls, provided the passage remains wide enough. Walls with irregularly placed switches, radiators or niches are less suitable because they disturb the symmetry. Our range of Console tables includes models in different widths and depths, so the pair can be matched to the wall area available.
Setting the axis and distances
First determine the centre axis, that is, the middle of the door or passage, and measure from there to both sides. The distance between door frame and console should be the same on the left and the right, as should the distance to the corner of the room, as far as the floor plan allows. If the wall is shorter on one side, go by the axis and not by the corners. A mark on the floor makes positioning easier. Then check with a spirit level whether both tops are at the same height, as uneven floors are common in old buildings.
Arranging mirrors, lights and decoration as mirror images
The symmetry continues above the top. Two identical mirrors or wall lights, each centred above its console, reinforce the effect. A few pieces are enough on the top, for instance one table lamp and one vase each. Not every object has to be identical; what matters is that height and volume are comparable on both sides. Baroque furniture with curved legs and carving already has a strong form of its own, so restrained decoration usually looks calmer. Lamp cables should be routed behind the legs, and sockets should be planned at an early stage.
Practical notes for day-to-day operation
In the entrance area, walkways take priority. Consoles with a depth of about 30 to 45 centimetres generally leave enough passage, including for luggage trolleys and service staff. Order both pieces together so that colour, marble top and gilding match; with handcrafted furniture, slight variations between individual pieces are normal. If the consoles stand freely on slender legs, fixing them to the wall is advisable. After cleaning, check regularly whether both pieces are still on their marks, because pairs that have shifted quickly lose their effect.
Related categories: Mirrors, Decoration, Benches. The full range: Baroque furniture.
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