DIY Console Table Bookshelf

I am not completely done with this project, but I just cannot wait to share.  This was a vision I have had in my head for a long time, so I am excited it has finally become a reality.  Every project around here takes longer than we plan, because of the kids, but furniture building projects seem to take even longer.  I am really paranoid about the boys being around real power tools.  Finally this past weekend we had extra time on our hands and my hubby graciously offered to watch the boys while I finished this console table.

The new console table sits behind the couch in our loft playroom.  I originally hung a full-length Ikea mirror sideways above the couch hoping it would make the space seem larger and brighter.  It did, but at the same I could not help but think it looked a little creepy.  Kind of like a two-way mirror.  It needed to be softened up a bit.  And I think there was definitely an opportunity to try to further increase the amount of light in this window-less space.

My vision for the console was a long narrow piece behind the sofa that could fit two small lamps.  To avoid bumping the couch out too far into the tiny room, the depth of the console could only be 10 inches.  Initially, I thought it made sense to make the height of the console flush with the back of the couch.  But the mirror was hung quite a bit higher and I feared small lamps would be too low and the scale would be off.  I decided to modify the design to include a shelf on the console.  The shelf would be flush with the back of the couch and the console top would be about 5 inches higher.  The extra height helps bridge the gap between the couch and the mirror.  I also loved the idea of stashing stacked books on the shelf.  My perfect console table could not be bought…I would have to make it.

The thing that finally got me moving on the console was a little lamp sale at Target.  I love their inexpensive drum shade lamps and they had recently started carrying a teal shade I loved.  The price for the lamps was $16.99, which is super good, but I kept putting them off.  Then one day they were on sale for $12 each…two for $24.  Sold!  I brought them home and they lived in my dining room (the waiting room for my decor projects) until I finished the console.

Well, now the console table is built and my cute little lamps have a place to live.  The console table makes the giant gap from the back of the couch to the bottom of the mirror more intentional.  The lamps help soften the mirror with layering.  The light from the lamps brightens up the space and the light is also multiplied in the mirror.

I think I want to keep the natural wood look, but may oil the wood (not sure, I have never done that before).  The natural wood ties in with the giant ruler growth chart you can see a glimpse of in the mirror.  I also want to do something fun in that shelf, either a bright pop of color lining the inside or maybe line it with fun paper.  Then it needs a whole bunch of styling…well, as much as my minimalist husband will let me get away with.  I also have to make sure any decor is kid-friendly for the playroom.   Maybe some cute wooden toys would be enough.

Check out the console table bookshelf tutorial.