Handcrafted Beam Console Tables - Rustic & Refined

The Beauty and Craftsmanship of Beam Console Tables

Console tables made from solid wood beams showcase the natural beauty of the wood grain in a sturdy, handcrafted piece. Beam console tables have an inherent rustic, farmhouse charm that never goes out of style. These versatile tables easily fit into both traditional and contemporary home decor schemes. Read on to learn more about the history, construction, and styling possibilities of beam console tables.

The History of Beam Furniture

For centuries, post and beam construction has been used in barns, houses, and other structures. Sturdy wooden beams form the skeleton of these buildings. In the late 20th century, crafters began upcycling these beams into furniture. Salvaged beams are sustainable, since they make use of wood that has already served one long lifetime of use.

Beam console tables first emerged as a trend in the 1990s and remain popular today. The heaviness of a solid wood table contrasts beautifully with decorated tabletops. Beam tables also pair nicely with industrial farmhouse or urban loft aesthetics. These handsome, hardy tables are built to last 100 years or more.

Constructing a Beam Console Table

Genuine beam console tables are handcrafted works of art. The beam itself is the showstopping focal point and sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Beams are often salvaged from old barns, factories, or houses. They are hand selected for their solid structure, dynamic grain, and signs of natural aging that add to the rustic appeal.

The base of a beam table starts with the solid wood beam itself. This is affixed to a sturdy base that keeps it level. Table legs are usually made from matching wood. The Beam is then sanded and finished to protect the wood while allowing its natural grain and grooves to show through.

A decorative tabletop is affixed to the top of the beam. This may be made of reclaimed wood, metal, marble, or other materials. The contrast showcases the beam while adding visual interest. Custom details like metal accents, carved legs, or specialty finishes can make each beam table a personalized work of art.

Styling Your Beam Console Table

A console table made from an aged beam makes a dramatic statement while providing functional space. The multi-toned wood grain along with nicks, knots, and cracks exhibit the beam's long history. Display your beam table proudly as a focal point and build your decor around it.

Beam tables inherently have an on-trend industrial, earthy look. For a lighter look, pair with painted furniture and decorative objects. A few key rustic elements like burlap and distressed metal accents will tie the look together. For a moodier style, mix in black stained furniture and leather. Copper, bronze, or wrought iron accents will complement aged patinas.

Layer your table with trays, books, and decorative objects that speak to you. The spacious tabletop provides ideal real estate for displayed collections or coffee table books. You can even use decorative brackets to mount shelves or cubbies on the front for extra storage. Keep lines and colors crisp for a contemporary look or embrace a more is more philosophy by piling on layers of textiles.

Invest in a Quality Beam Console Table

Well built beam furniture is designed to last multiple lifetimes. The aged reclaimed wood only gets more beautiful over time. When shopping for a beam table, examine joins to ensure tight construction and solid legs that will bear weight. Run your hands along the sanded beam to check for unwanted splinters before bringing the piece home.

Because of the labor involved, beam tables generally cost more than mass manufactured pieces. Yet their unique character offers enduring value. The patinas and natural cracks make each beam console table a true one-of-a-kind. Choose an American-made table crafted locally for sustainability and to support small business. Your beam console table will serve as a sturdy, stylish family heirloom.

FAQs

How heavy is a beam console table?

Beam tables can weigh anywhere from 100 to 500 pounds or more, depending on the size of the beam and other wood used for the base. The solid wood makes these tables quite sturdy and weighty.

How do you finish and protect a beam tabletop?

Beam tables typically have a protective clear coat to defend the wood while still allowing the grain and natural patina to show through. Some finishes like epoxy resin offer even more durability for the tabletop.

Where can I buy an authentic beam console table?

Custom shops that hand-make tables from reclaimed beams are the best source for authentic beam console tables. These tables showcase the original weathering and aging of the wood for a genuine salvaged look.

How do I style my vintage beam table?

Layer your beam console table with beautiful objects like greenery, books, and decorative trays. Beam tables pair perfectly with natural textiles like jute rugs, linen pillows, and wool blankets to balance the industrial edge.