If there’s anything true of the interior design scene of today, it’s that we’re spoiled for choice. From an endless array of style aesthetics to recreate and a frankly overwhelming number of furniture options, designing our homes has never been so fun – or so confusing. With many pieces appearing similar at first glance, it’s easy to get lost in the terminology. For instance, what exactly differentiates a chest of drawers from a dresser?
While that particular question isn't our focus today, it highlights a common issue: not all furniture terms are as straightforward as they seem. One query that crops up a lot for homeowners and renters alike is: what is a sideboard? This centuries-old staple has evolved in both form and function, and in this guide, we’ll explore its history, how it’s used today and also how to incorporate one into your own home.
Here’s a more detailed outline of everything we’ll cover. Please, feel free to skip to whichever part piques your interest.
- Defining What Is a Sideboard (+ What Isn’t)
- Its Origins & History
- How Sideboards Are Used Today
- Their Benefits
- How to Pick Out Your Own
- Styling Tips for Sideboard Newbies
- Conclusion
Defining What a Sideboard is (and What Isn’t)
According to the Cambridge Dictionary, a sideboard is “a piece of furniture with a flat top and cupboards at the bottom, usually used for holding glasses, plates, etc.”.
While this is a good start, let’s expand on this definition.
Not only are sideboards traditionally associated with the dining room, thanks to their original purpose of providing extra cupboard and surface space for dinnerware, but they usually tend to be relatively slimline, so they can comfortably sit against the wall. This is why today, you’ll often see them in a living room diner setting or even in a hallway storage context.
So, if you spot a piece of furniture featuring each of the characteristics below, ding ding, you’ve got yourself a sideboard!
- Hip or waist height
- Four legs, or extending straight down to the floor
- A flat top, for storage or display purposes
- Internal storage compartments: usually drawers, cupboards or a combination of both.
What’s the Difference Between a Sideboard and a Buffet or a Credenza?
Now you know what a sideboard is, your spidey senses might be tingling. That definition above sounds awfully familiar to a buffet, and well, you’re not wrong. Along with credenzas, the terms are used interchangeably in some circles.
While the trio of storage staples are indeed very similar, in order to make sure you know exactly what you’re purchasing when it comes down to it, here’s a quick explainer.
- Sideboard: as described previously – with a long, narrow design and short legs or a base that sits directly on the floor.
- Buffet: essentially a sideboard with longer legs and, thus, a taller stature.
- Credenza: similar to a sideboard but with a longer, lower profile and very short or no legs. They’re often considered to be more modern in design.
The Obscure History of the Sideboard
The sideboard, as a piece of furniture in its own right, was developed in the late 18th century from earlier pieces like side tables and serving boards, which were used in luxurious dining settings. In fact, these prior forms are the root of the term, combining the design elements and function of both.
According to many historians, including the experts at The Johnston Collection, this development can be credited to the Scottish neoclassical architect and interior designer Robert Adam. In the 1770s, he introduced designs featuring a central table flanked by pedestals, each topped with large, urn-shaped containers, which morphed into storage drawers as trends shifted over the years. The result became the blueprint of the classic sideboard.
How Sideboards are Used in Today’s Homes
Nowadays, partially owing to the decline of the dining room, these handy storage pieces aren’t anchored to a specific space. Neither do they need to serve a strictly defined purpose. So, if you’re wondering what to put in a sideboard or, indeed, what to put on a sideboard, the answer is as simple as whatever you want.
While, truly, there are no rules, we thought it would be a good idea to at least provide a little inspirational guidance to set you on the right path. Remember, as with any furniture decision, think about hitting that sweet spot between function and style.
Hallway Decluttering
Many homeowners, especially those with pets or little ones rushing up and down the corridors, opt to use a sideboard as a means of keeping clutter under control. As well as acting as a handy surface to deposit keys, you could hide away those less attractive items like shopping bags or shoe brushes in the storage compartment – actively contributing towards your hall’s decoration rather than detracting from it.
A Changing Table
As we explored in our nursery room layouts article, sometimes it’s much more convenient in the long run to pick furniture pieces that can be repurposed and stand the test of time. In the context of a sideboard, you could use it in the place of a changing table, so that it ages alongside your children. Plus, the design makes life incredibly easy – as you change baby, you can grab the supplies from the drawers within arm’s reach.
Living Room Storage
Another popular use of the sideboard in today’s day and age is in the living room. Whether a handy space-saver for awkwardly narrow spaces, a drinks cabinet or simply an alternative to a traditional TV stand under a wall-mounted flat screen, their style and substance go a long way.
A Hobbyist’s Haven
Harking back to the decorative prowess of many 18th- and 19th-century sideboards, why not turn the sideboard into a statement in and of itself? While you might not be showing off quite the same level of ornamentation, you can achieve just as strong a focal point by making it a shrine to your hobbies. Love the mid-century modern look? Then, how about a retro vinyl station? Any other media, décor or art pieces could do it justice, as long as you follow the universal styling principles to execute it right.
Room Dividers
Despite their inclination towards more formal style leanings, sideboards can be unexpected assets in open-plan spaces. On top of providing a slimline silhouette suited to modern interiors, they make brilliant room dividers when placed thoughtfully. A popular strategy involves positioning a sideboard between two functional zones – for instance, a dining area and the entertainment hub – to provide a logical structure and flow. The idea is to keep each spot well-defined, to build up a sense of shelter and comfort.
A Vanity Table
Our final suggestion is for when a traditional dressing table will be too tight a squeeze into your small bedroom. To maintain the sense of openness and space in the room without compromising on your original plans, replace the bulkier piece with a streamlined sideboard. This way, you’re still benefitting from a bit of surface space, but it won’t eat too much into the floorspace. For tips on how to go about styling and organising this makeshift dressing table, go ahead and explore our dedicated guide.
The Benefits of Having a Sideboard
If you’re not already convinced of the versatility of the sideboard, have you been paying attention?! Seriously, though, here are the advantages of this classic furniture piece laid out in a simple list to really drive the point home.
- Sideboards help you hide unsightly clutter with their internal storage
- They also provide display space for small tablescapes and décor items
- They’re relatively slimline, so don’t take up buckets of space
- They’re often beautifully crafted and centrepieces in their own right
- They can be used in practically any room
- There’s so much variety in styles and designs
5 Key Considerations When Picking Out Your Own
Now you know the ins and outs of what a sideboard is, how you can use them and why they make a versatile addition to pretty much any interior, let’s talk about how to find the right fit for your own home.
What Are You Using It For?
As with any furniture purchase, the best place to start is envisioning your life with the product in the picture. Will it be an extension of the dining table, more along the lines of a buffet table? Or is it merely functioning as a display surface with bonus storage inside? Whatever the case, make sure your choice allows you to fulfil the vision.
What Sizes & Dimensions Will Work in the Space?
One of the most common mistakes you can make when shopping around for furniture is neglecting to measure up. On one end of the spectrum, if your sideboard fails to measure up to the space, your room could end up feeling cavernous. On the other, you might struggle to squeeze it into its designated spot. Not ideal!
Which Materials Complement Your Existing Scheme?
Materials have a huge impact on the ambience of your interiors, from perceived warmth to their overall cohesiveness. We’re huge fans of natural finishes like Mango wood or Oak, which patina beautifully over time (yes, we’re a little biased), but don’t forget there’s a wealth of options to explore, from a farmhouse painted look to the modern edge of brass and chrome.
How Much Storage Do You Need?
Lastly, have a good hard think about the storage capacity you’ll need. Are drawers more appropriate than cupboards? Will you need additional drawer dividers? Keeping all of these points in mind will ensure that when it comes down to it, all of your bits and bobs will be neatly tucked away in their newly designated homes.
Styling Tips for Sideboard Newbies
While we have a dedicated sideboard styling blog, a few bonus tips here can’t hurt. Keep these in mind even when you’re picking out your sideboard, as your choice of ornamentation may well impact the size you get.
- Consider scale: To create a truly dynamic display, think about scale. This means picking a variety of items at different heights, some the same and some contrasting. This is the best way to avoid things feeling one-note.
- The power of doink: Borrowed from the interior design stan, Caroline Winkler, ‘doink’ refers to the principle of adding small touches to a scheme with more dramatic, scaled up elements. For a sideboard, this could be a huge frame leaning against the walls and then a delicate smattering of candles on each side.
- Groupings: Instead of keeping items visually distinct, create story and narrative by positioning them in groups. Equally numbered groups create cosiness and warmth, while asymmetric or odd-numbered groups establish a cool, modern edge.
- Mix not match: To prevent your display from feeling too catalogue reliant, try selecting a handful of accessories from different places. Instead of panic-buying knick-knacks from the same product line, try to find different items with similarities in texture, colour or motif – this way, you create visual beats that signal intentionality.
A Recap On Sideboards
So, what’s a sideboard? By now, you need not ask. All clued up with their distinct traits – four corners, a flat top surface and useful internal storage compartments – next time, you’ll be the one filling people in.
If you’re taken with their dual-purpose and storage capacity, why not explore our full range of solid wood sideboards? We also have plenty of style guides to help you envision the full look, so you can pick the right one for both your functional and aesthetic needs.
