Sideboards, Buffets, Cabinets & Credenzas
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As the designated place for sharing family dinners or hosting guests and holiday gatherings, the dining room is undoubtedly one of the more refined and sophisticated areas of most homes. That being said, dining rooms often aren’t equipped with the same storage options as a breakfast room or kitchen. If you’re searching for a way to keep more formal dishware, glasses or serving accessories close at hand, then a sideboard — also referred to as a buffet or cabinet — may be what you’re looking for. Read on to learn more.
This long, narrow piece of furniture offers an elegant way to store dining essentials and linens, and typically is placed along the wall. It usually features a combination of cabinets and drawers, with a flat top that can be used as a serving space for platters or trays of food. When not dining, you can also use the top of your sideboard as a shelf for displaying keepsakes or other decor.
Though each of these terms are frequently used interchangeably, they do offer some different features.
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F.A.Q.
What are the different styles of buffets and sideboards?
Buffets, cabinets, sideboards, and credenzas come in various designs, each serving a purpose in decor and function. Here's what you'll find in some interior design themes:
Traditional: These feature ornate designs with rich wood finishing and detailed hardware. This style goes well in traditional and bohemian settings, and designs usually have drawers for storage.
Contemporary: Sleek lines and modern finishes (high-gloss or metal) define contemporary buffets and sideboards. They're ideal for modern, glam, and eclectic dining rooms. Some designs feature open shelving, while others may have glass-fronted cabinets.
Farmhouse: Perfect for the cottage, farmhouse designs are characterized by distressed wood, which provides a homey feel in rustic and cottagecore rooms.
How do people use buffets and sideboards in the home?
Buffets and sideboards are a standard fixture among dining room furniture, but they have more versatility than you think. In dining rooms, they're a place to store dinnerware and linens. You can even convert one into a serving station during a dinner party. In living rooms, use them as a stylish place to display decorative items, store books, or put media devices.
For a grand entrance, strategically put a stylish sideboard in entryways for a place to drop keys, store shoes, or display decor that makes a first impression. Finally, in bedrooms, a buffet or credenza can be converted into a dresser for additional storage of clothing and personal items.
What should I consider when choosing a buffet or sideboard?
Here's what to consider when choosing a buffet for your space:
Dimensions: Measure your room's dimensions and asses the availability of your space. Knowing the exact size of the buffet you want to buy is important, as well as thinking about the space you'll need to open any doors or drawers.
Materials and design: Choose a style that matches your room's existing decor. Similar materials and colors create a sense of flow for a harmonious look. For contrast, combine a light-color palette with a buffet in a deep, rich tone.
Functionality: A buffet's utility is as important as its aesthetic, so consider functional features when deciding on a piece. For example, many designs have storage solutions in drawers, shelving, or cabinets. If you're using the buffet for a display, you might also prefer to have certain items, such as delicate china or collectible figurines, behind a protective glass.