We Tested (and Rated!) All the Media Consoles at West Elm

The article introduces West Elm's mid-century media console range, highlighting its primary selling point: a variety of sizes designed to accommodate different room dimensions and storage needs. While the consoles do not specifically cater to vinyl storage, a niche that West Elm has yet to embrace, the article acknowledges existing alternatives for vinyl enthusiasts, such as units from Urban Outfitters and La Redoute, and refers to a previous compilation of retro record storage solutions. These media consoles are primarily intended for housing televisions and other audio/visual equipment, while maintaining a stylish aesthetic within a living space. The diverse sizing options mean that both expansive rooms and more modest areas can find suitable console designs. The article showcases several examples from the range, illustrating the different dimensions and configurations available. One featured large console, offering ample drawer and cupboard space along with a generous surface for a TV, is noted to be currently discounted from £1,799 to £1,259. A slightly smaller, yet similar, mid-century media console is also available at a reduced price, from £1,599 to £1,279. For more compact spaces, options are presented at £999 (undiscounted) and £599 (reduced from £699). The newest and most compact unit, the mid-century narrow media console, is highlighted for those who desire the mid-century aesthetic without excessive bulk. All consoles in the range share a consistent 1960s-inspired styling, characterized by their distinct legs, handle designs, and wood finishes. They integrate internal storage and feature cable holes at the back to help manage and conceal electronic add-ons and wiring. For individuals requiring additional storage, the article mentions matching mid-century towers, which complement the media units and offer extra capacity, priced at £399.95. The suitability of these towers for record storage is left to the buyer to determine based on dimensions. The article emphasizes that while these options are not inexpensive, they provide substantial style and functionality for any retro-themed living room. It encourages readers to explore the full range on the West Elm website. Furthermore, the article points out that West Elm's mid-century collection extends beyond media units, suggesting that consumers interested in this design aesthetic can find other matching furniture items for various areas of their home. #MidCentury #MediaConsole #WestElm #RetroFurniture #HomeInterior #Design #StorageSolutions #1960sStyle #LivingRoomDecor

West Elm, a brand celebrated by designers and homeowners, is recognized for its meticulously designed and crafted furniture, prioritizing sustainable materials, processes, and labor practices. The company is particularly renowned for its diverse range of wood pieces, which are both functional and stylish. Among these offerings, West Elm provides a selection of best-selling entertainment stands that cater to various design aesthetics while offering significant storage solutions for electronics and media. The Mid-Century Media Console, priced at $1,799, embodies a sleek midcentury modern design, drawing inspiration from the clean lines of the 1950s and 1960s. This low-slung media cabinet features an acacia veneer over eucalyptus and engineered wood, presented in a rich acorn shade that complements a wide array of color schemes. Its kiln-dried frame ensures durability and stability, and a water-based finish makes it easy to clean. Available in multiple sizes, including an 80-inch version capable of supporting an 80-inch television and up to 135 pounds, it incorporates drawers and shelves with antique bronze hardware. Design elements include subtly beveled front edges, smooth-operating drawers and sliding doors, and integrated cutouts for cable management, alongside adjustable interior shelves. The Norre Media Console, retailing for $899, is another top seller appreciated for its versatility and ample closed storage. Its unassuming profile and lack of external hardware make it suitable for smaller spaces and for achieving a built-in look, further enhanced by a recessed frame that offers the appearance of custom cabinetry with greater placement flexibility. This Dutch-inspired piece is constructed from engineered wood with a light European oak veneer and features a water-based blonde finish, making it durable and easy to maintain. The Norre can accommodate screens up to 50 inches and includes two separate cabinets, each with double doors and an adjustable interior shelf, providing extensive storage for media, equipment, and other household items. Its light finish and beautiful simplicity allow it to blend seamlessly while still making a subtle design statement. Finally, the Pictograph Media Console, priced at $1,899, stands out as a distinctive and functional piece that doubles as a conversation starter. Handcrafted in India from kiln-dried solid mango tree wood, it is supported by antiqued brass Y-shaped legs. The Pictograph is available in both light and dark finishes, enabling it to integrate into various room styles and color palettes. Its interior is configured with three deep, wide compartments, each with an adjustable shelf, and it can support a flat-screen television up to 80 inches wide. Described by West Elm as both modern and glamorous, this console offers a sculptural and graphic aesthetic. Its intricately carved details provide texture and dimension, particularly effective against minimalist backgrounds. The slender legs contribute to a less weighty, more streamlined appearance, making it a viable option even for more compact living areas. #WestElm #EntertainmentStands #MediaConsoles #HomeFurniture #MidCenturyModern #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign

The increasing prevalence of remote and hybrid work models has amplified the significance of a well-equipped home office. The U.S. Census Bureau reported a tripling of people working from home between 2019 and 2021, underscoring the shift from a temporary measure to a sustained lifestyle. While opinions vary on the benefits of remote work, a comfortable chair and a sturdy desk are crucial for maintaining productivity and preventing health issues associated with poor posture. West Elm offers a selection of best-selling desks that blend aesthetic appeal with practical functionality to meet these evolving needs. One prominent option is the Mid-Century Executive Desk. This desk features an acorn finish and antique bronze details, offering substantial storage through three drawers, a file cabinet, and a two-tier open space. Its generous size accommodates multiple monitors and equipment, catering to those who require ample workspace. Constructed from FSC Certified eucalyptus wood, known for its durability comparable to oak and teak-like appearance, it also presents a sustainable choice. Eucalyptus wood is more affordable and responsibly sourced. Maintenance requires only dry cloths, as chemical cleaners can damage its surface. The desk includes free white glove delivery and can complement various interior design styles, including retro, boho, and contemporary aesthetics. For those with limited space, the Mid-Century Mini Desk provides a compact alternative that retains the charm of its larger counterpart. Measuring 36 inches wide, it fits well in smaller, multi-functional home offices. Available in acorn, white, and pebble finishes, it is priced affordably between $449 and $499. This desk is also made from sustainably sourced eucalyptus wood and features an additional water-based finish for enhanced durability. Similar to the Executive Desk, it should only be cleaned with dry cloths to preserve its surface. Despite its smaller footprint, it includes a long, singular drawer for storage, and homeowners can supplement with floating shelves or mounted lighting to maximize surface area. Assembly is required, but detailed instructions are accessible on West Elm’s website. The Industrial Modular Wall Desk offers a distinct aesthetic with its raw mango wood construction and mixed-media design, featuring a black steel frame and legs. This desk is available in raw mango, black, cerused white, and cool walnut. Measuring 49 inches by 84 inches, it provides extensive storage with open shelving, a concealed cabinet, two drawers, and a spacious surface. Its modular design and height contribute to its versatility, making it suitable for saving space without compromising storage capacity. Each desk possesses a unique appearance due to the natural wood grain, which contrasts appealingly with the smooth metal frame. Like the other desks, it requires dry cloth cleaning. West Elm offers a range of add-on pieces, such as the Industrial Modular Open and Closed Storage and the Industrial Open and Closed Storage Bookcase, allowing for workspace expansion and coordinated furniture arrangements. All pieces in this collection also include optional white glove delivery services. #HomeOffice #DeskDesign #WestElm #Furniture #RemoteWork #InteriorDesign #StorageSolutions #SustainableWood #ModularFurniture

Selecting the right TV stand involves understanding the different types available and considering various factors to ensure compatibility, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The term "TV stand" encompasses furniture consoles, tabletop pedestals, and attachable legs, each serving distinct purposes. TV console stands are furniture pieces designed to hold or have a TV mounted above them. They often include shelves and cabinets for organizing electronic devices like cable boxes, streaming players, and gaming systems. Examples include the affordable Walker Edison Wren Classic, praised for its functional cubbies, and the spacious Ikea Brimnes with three large drawers. For a more premium option, the Bryce Media Console offers a retro design with slated cabinets, while the Yaheetech TV Console Stand provides a budget-friendly alternative with open storage. Larger consoles like the 70-inch Walker Edison Wren Classic accommodate bigger displays, and specialized options like the Unikito Corner TV Stand fit into room corners and feature built-in power outlets. High-end choices like the Livingston 7-Piece Entertainment Center offer extensive storage and a multi-piece design, while the Ameriwood Home Lumina Electric Fireplace TV Stand integrates a decorative electric fireplace. Pedestal stands and leg stands attach directly to the TV. Pedestal stands, such as the Sanus Elite Swiveling TV Stand, feature a central column and a flat base, often providing swivel and height adjustment capabilities. Smaller swiveling options like the Amazon Basics Swivel Pedestal TV Stand cater to TVs as compact as 32 inches, and the Fitueyes Table Top TV Stand offers an affordable, non-swiveling pedestal for various sizes. Leg stands, like the Vivo Vesa TV Leg Stand, consist of separate left and right legs that screw into the TV, providing balance and anti-slip pads. When choosing a TV console, several factors are crucial. Style and design considerations range from traditional to minimalist, with integrated cord management systems being a common feature. The console should offer adequate storage for all media components, including streaming devices, Blu-ray players, and soundbars. Ventilation is essential for electronic devices, making open or vented storage spaces preferable to closed cabinets to prevent overheating. Size compatibility is also critical, requiring measurement of the TV's existing stand and adherence to the console's maximum weight capacity. Materials vary, including wood, metal, glass, particle boards, and MDF, each affecting durability and cost. Assembly requirements should also be noted, as some units may necessitate professional help. VESA compliance is a standard for nearly all modern TVs, tabletop pedestals, and leg stands, ensuring compatibility through a standardized attachment interface. However, it's important to verify that the stand's VESA hole patterns match those of the TV. For safety, anti-tip devices and wall anchors are recommended to prevent accidents. Alternatively, wall mounting can save space and offer a clean aesthetic, but it involves drilling into walls and may require professional installation, making it less suitable for renters or those needing frequent access to TV ports. #TVStands #MediaConsoles #HomeEntertainment #TVAccessories #HomeDecor #VESACompatibility #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #TechReviews

This blog post focuses on TV and media units, highlighting how their design has evolved to accommodate modern televisions. Contemporary TVs are larger in display size but thinner in depth, necessitating media units that provide stable support and balance while maintaining a sleek aesthetic. The article showcases a curated collection of media stands from brands such as Gallery Direct and Gillmore Space, emphasizing models that are both stylish and practical. The selection includes a variety of designs to suit different interior preferences. For those seeking a modern look, high-gloss media units are presented, often featuring discreet, deep storage compartments hidden behind slim panels. These units are designed to offer ample storage without compromising on a minimalist and contemporary appearance. Alternatively, for a more classic and enduring aesthetic, wooden television stands are suggested. These traditional options are described as elegant, providing a refined backdrop that allows the television, and its content, to remain the focal point of the room without being overshadowed by the furniture itself. The post also categorizes TV and media units based on popular search terms and characteristics, helping consumers navigate the diverse offerings. Categories include white gloss TV units, wooden TV stands, black TV units, corner TV units, and HiFi units, catering to specific needs and styles. Furthermore, the article provides filtering options based on price ranges, from under £500 to over £1500, making it easier for customers to find products within their budget. Style preferences are also addressed, with options ranging from Modern, Rustic, Retro, and Vintage to Glamorous, Industrial, Oriental, and Funky, allowing individuals to match their media unit to their existing decor. The variety extends to wood tones, including medium (e.g., oak), red (e.g., sheesham), mid/dark (e.g., walnut), light (e.g., beech), and white/grey wood, offering choices to complement different color schemes and material palettes. Color options are extensive, featuring brown/beige, white, black, grey, natural, reclaimed wood, green, silver/chrome, blue, purple, bronze, red, gold/brass, mirrored, and pink. In terms of materials, the available units are crafted from wood, metal, glass, steel, marble, iron, leather, and stone, providing durability and a range of tactile and visual qualities. Notable brands featured in the collection include Andrew Piggott Contemporary Furniture, Frank Olsen Furniture, Indian Hub, Baumhaus Furniture, Gallery Direct, Jual Furnishings, Liang & Eimil, Gillmore Space, The Orchard, and Shimu. Each brand contributes to a comprehensive selection, ensuring that customers can find a media unit that not only supports their television but also enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of their living space. #TVMediaUnits #LivingRoomFurniture #HomeDecor #FurnitureDesign #InteriorStyling #ModernFurniture #WoodenFurniture #StorageSolutions #HomeEntertainment

This article presents an expert review of various bed frames available at West Elm, a popular home furnishing retailer. The evaluation, conducted by Shopping Writer Nikol Slatinska, aims to guide consumers in selecting a bed frame that aligns with their personal style, spatial requirements, and functional needs. The reviewer visited a West Elm store in NYC to assess each bed frame based on five key criteria: customizability, space needs, platform height, storage capacity, and overall appearance. West Elm is highlighted for its diverse selection of bed frames, which are not only aesthetically pleasing but also offer features like white-glove delivery, free furniture customization, and design guidance. Complimentary fabric swatches are also available to assist customers in choosing ideal materials and colors. The review covers both best-selling models and newer additions, providing detailed insights into what makes each bed unique and suitable for different preferences. The Andes Bed is recognized as the most customizable option, offering various sizes, headboard styles and heights, numerous upholstery fabrics and colors, and two leg finish choices. It provides under-bed storage space and features a distressed velvet upholstery with a clean-lined headboard and metallic legs. The Haven Slipcover Bed is recommended for its coastal style and ease of maintenance, with a machine-washable slipcover available in select fabrics. This platform bed, with its tall, padded headboard, creates an effortless and breezy aesthetic but lacks built-in storage. For smaller spaces, the Mid-Century Bed is lauded for its practical, sparse silhouette and ample under-bed storage, making it ideal for frequent movers. Its classic 1960s-inspired design, tapered legs, and full wood construction are made from sustainably sourced wood. The Emmett Tufted Side Storage Bed is praised for its significant storage capacity, featuring four roomy side drawers, and its ability to have legs added. Its grid tufting provides a subtle yet elegant detail. The article notes that the back of the headboard on West Elm's fabric beds, including the Emmett, is typically not fully upholstered, which is a consideration if the bed will not be placed against a wall. The Hargrove Bed appeals to those seeking a minimalist style that can blend with various interior designs, such as boho, farmhouse, or rustic. Its low-profile appearance belies a high base that offers considerable under-bed storage. The cream-colored linen weave fabric and light mahogany wood finish are versatile, and the frame is treated with a water-based finish for durability. The Lana Upholstered Bed stands out as a statement piece, featuring a curved wingback headboard, luxurious bouclé upholstery, and glamorous gold-toned legs, providing decent under-bed storage. This bed is particularly suited for softening modern spaces with angular lines. Finally, the Shelter Low Profile Bed is described as having an “angelic” and cozy appeal due to its all-around padding and cloud-like appearance. It boasts a high platform with a low profile and a customizable wingback headboard available in multiple styles, helping to absorb noise. However, this bed requires substantial floor space and does not offer storage, making it more suitable for homeowners or individuals with ample room and no immediate plans for relocation. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of selecting a bed frame that serves as a personal sanctuary and highlights West Elm's commitment to quality and design across its diverse range of offerings. #WestElm #BedFrames #HomeDecor #FurnitureReview #InteriorDesign #BedroomFurniture #CustomizableFurniture #StorageSolutions #ModernDesign

The article highlights the Wayfair Millwood Pines Celese Sideboard as a stylish and affordable alternative to the more expensive West Elm Ellington Media Console. The author, a fan of West Elm's aesthetic but conscious of budget, frequently seeks out affordable 'dupes' from major retailers like Walmart, Target, Amazon, and Wayfair. During a Wayfair Big Holiday Sale, the author discovered the Millwood Pines Celese Sideboard, noting its striking resemblance to the West Elm Ellington Media Console, but at a significantly lower price point—over $1,000 less. The Millwood Pines Celese Sideboard is described as a versatile piece suitable for dining rooms, entryways, or living spaces. It features a sleek black finish with rounded edges, contributing to a high-end appearance. The sideboard includes two doors that conceal adjustable shelves, offering flexible storage solutions. These shelves can accommodate various items, from china and wine glasses to media equipment or shoes. The article emphasizes the solid quality of the piece for its price and notes that its natural grain finish enhances its perceived value. A direct comparison is drawn between the Wayfair sideboard and the West Elm Ellington Media Cabinet. While the Wayfair option is constructed from more budget-friendly materials and is three inches smaller, it offers an open display shelf in the middle, unlike West Elm's exclusively closed storage. Apart from the brass knobs on the West Elm version, the two pieces share a very similar aesthetic, making the Wayfair sideboard a compelling alternative given its lower cost. Customer reviews for the Millwood Pines Celese Sideboard on Wayfair contribute to its positive assessment, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars. One reviewer praised the furniture's solid wood construction, modern and sophisticated appearance, and suitable size for smaller dining rooms, highly recommending it despite initial apprehension about online furniture purchases. Another reviewer appreciated the sideboard's versatility and value for money, having purchased multiple units for various uses. A third anonymous reviewer lauded the new sideboard, noting its attractive appearance behind an L-shaped couch, reasonable assembly time, solid wood quality, visible wood grain through the black stain, and practical features like adjustable levelers and screw-in interior shelf pins. The article concludes by urging readers to take advantage of the 68% discount on the Millwood Pines Celese Sideboard, highlighting it as an exceptional deal. #Wayfair #WestElm #MediaConsole #Sideboard #Furniture #HomeDecor #AffordableDesign #Shopping #Sales