Stylish DIY 2×4 Console Table

DESIGN TREND – 2X4 TABLES

Console tables can go just about anywhere.  Mostly, they are used to display and/or store items.  You can use one in the foyer for a welcoming decorative display.  You can use one close to a seating arrangement for storing items for entertaining. Console tables are generally taller than a coffee table and longer than an end table.  But that doesn’t mean you can’t take inspiration from any general DIY table you find!  This 2×4 coffee table was my inspiration for two different console tables.

DIY BY STYLE 2×4 TWIST

Hubby needed more space to ‘store’ his work files.  Since he likes easy access to the projects he is working on, his actual desk space is limited as it is covered with files.  Drives.Me.Nuts. 

So, I decided he needed a console table for his office to help clear some space.  The console table would need to be taller than the inspiration.  Hence, I bought some 27” hairpin metal legs.  More importantly, the console table would primarily be viewed along it’s length.  Consequently, I decided to arrange the 2x4s opposite the inspiration piece.  In this way, the alternating depths of the ends would be most visible.  Finally, there were a few different would tones throughout the office, I also decided on varying the wood stain for each 2×4. Each piece was stained separately then poly was added after it was assembled.

Since the console table is located against a wall, I only had to vary the depths of the 2×4 pieces on one side.  As well, to reduce the weight (and amount of wood I needed to buy) only the top row pieces are full width.  Look at the table from its underside.  All of the top pieces are attached to the under frame.  Then, the lower edge pieces are attached making sure to vary depth and stain color along the way. Word of warning to anyone with a window alarm system – use the nail gun outside, NOT in the garage 😊!

BONUS TWIST STAGGARED EDGE BAR TABLE

Hubby’s table then became the inspiration piece for a high-top table in an office game room next to game tables.  Since there was also the possibility of use as a work area, I switched out the 2x4s for white pine planks making a tighter fit and a smoother top.  Furthermore, I ran the planks lengthwise (like the inspiration) to have fewer seams between the planks.  Obviously, for a high-top the base needed to change.  So after looking at several different DIY tables on Pinterest, I chose this base out of simple 2x2s. 

For a cleaner look and tighter fit between planks, I used my hand dandy Kreg jig for hidden pocket holes for the base.  Finally, I added some metal bracing between the top planks on the underside for more durability.

EMBELLISHED CONSOLE TABLE

If farmhouse or shabby chic is more your style, this inspiration piece will still work.  Stain the wood in greys or white wash in greys, cream and white.  Chunky, decorative legs add to the style.  To really make the alternating depths pop, add decorative appliques. You can either purchase them (read my post on repeat pattern home design) or make your own with these silicon moulds by Prima (not an affiliate).

Want the full plans for building this 2×4 console table? Get access in the Style Library!