Console Table Vignette

At our old house, we didn't have room in the entry for a dedicated console table.  Here at 1240, we have ample space...

Because a console table wasn't in the budget (at least one that I loved), I bought  two matching, clearance bookshelves from Target for $27 each.

Right now, they're packed with books in the least artful, most utilitarian way possible.  Someday they will be artful. And probably dusty and full of dog hair too. And then we will have babies who will pull everything off of them and then they'll be either empty or full of toys.  Anyways...

I have decorated the wall above the "table" but now I'm struggling with how to actually compose the table decor. 

I keep finding the trend is to put a mirror or large framed item in the center and flank it with two tall items such as lamps or a plant.  I really don't like the "perfect" symmetry. I am seeking for that perfect balance of just cluttered enough and sort of haphazard...   :D




I stumbled on this GREAT blog entry about console table vignettes: 

http://simplynaturaldecor.blogspot.com/2009/02/every-home-should-have-one.html

And here are some of the examples in it:

 

I'm going to add photos of my set up once I get brave enough. How come everyone's lives look so beautiful and unmessy on the internet compared to mine?!?! Haha.