The sideboard cabinet, often known as a buffet or sideboard, is a versatile piece of furniture that has long been cherished in homes all over the world. Usually seen in a living or dining room, it's traditionally used to store dinnerware but is also perfect for adding storage to any room without compromising on design.
Beyond their practical use for storage and serving, sideboard cabinets also present an exciting opportunity for creative expression and aesthetic enhancement in your living and dining space. With the right styling, this furniture piece can become a captivating focal point that reflects your style and elevates the overall ambiance of your home.
The art of styling your buffet cabinet can also take it to a new height, allowing you to create a display that reflects your personality and sets the atmosphere for unforgettable gatherings and cherished memories.
We have tailored this guide to suit every taste and aesthetic, whether your home radiates a modern trendy vibe, a cozy rustic charm, or an eclectic fusion of styles. We'll share the secrets behind transforming a plain sideboard cabinet into a show-stopping centerpiece that captivates attention and sparks conversations.
Read on to discover some styling tips and tricks to transform your sideboard cabinet into a stunning masterpiece that will leave your guests in awe.
8 Sideboard Cabinet Decor Ideas
Decorating your sideboard serves multiple purposes which can greatly enhance your living areas. Below, we show you our top sideboard decor ideas to set your dining room apart.
1. An artful display
Create an artful display on your sideboard cabinet by arranging a curated collection of artwork. Choose a mix of framed paintings, prints, or photographs that complement the room's color scheme and style. Vary the sizes and orientations of the artwork for visual interest. Consider using picture ledges or installing a gallery wall above the sideboard to extend the display vertically. Add a few decorative objects like sculptural pieces or vases to complement the art and create a cohesive arrangement.
2. Nature-inspired Vignette
Bring the beauty of nature indoors by incorporating a nature-inspired vignette on your sideboard cabinet. Start with a backdrop of a large, framed botanical wallpaper or a mirror with a natural wood frame. Place potted plants, such as succulents or ferns, on one side of the sideboard to add a touch of greenery. Introduce natural elements like stones, shells, or driftwood as decorative accents.
3. Minimalist Elegance
For a sleek and sophisticated look, opt for a minimalist approach. Keep the sideboard clutter-free and choose a few carefully selected pieces to showcase. Place a striking piece of contemporary artwork centered above the sideboard as the focal point. On the surface, display a couple of statement decor items, such as a large ceramic vase or a sculpture with clean lines. Also consider adding a single dramatic floral arrangement or a group of minimalist candle holders for a touch of elegance.
4. Colorful Collectibles
If you have a collection of vibrant or colorful items, your sideboard can also be the perfect place to display them. Select a sideboard in a neutral tone to let the items take center stage. Arrange your collectibles in an intentional and visually pleasing way. For example, if you collect vintage glassware, group them in clusters by color or style. Incorporate decorative elements like artwork with pops of color, or a statement decorative tray to tie the arrangement together.
5. Display Your Dinnerware & Glassware
When in doubt, stage your best glassware or dinnerware on your sideboard cabinet so you're always ready to entertain guests. Consider selecting a cohesive set or mixing and matching different patterns and colors for a more eclectic look. Ensure that the pieces you choose complement the style and color scheme of your room. You can also mix your dinnerware display with other pretty artifacts, candles, vases, or an oversized plant for an extra wow factor.
6. Vintage Charm
Create a charming and nostalgic look by incorporating vintage elements. Choose one with retro-inspired details or go for an actual vintage sideboard. Adorn the top with vintage finds like antique cameras, old books, vintage glass bottles, or vintage-inspired clocks. Incorporate vintage-inspired artwork or framed vintage photographs on the wall above the sideboard. Finish off the look with a vintage-style table lamp or a retro radio to add warmth and character.
7. Make It a Media Center
Sideboards can also serve as media centers that sit underneath televisions. Rather than buying a large TV Stand, spend your money on a sideboard that will give your room an updated, modern appearance while holding the television and other media equipment. Pick one with cabinets or drawers to hide cords and cables away.
8. Add Some Lighting
If your dining room could use a bit of extra brightness, note that your sideboard buffet is an excellent spot to display a lamp or two. Lighting plays a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance of a space, and by incorporating soft, warm lighting on or around your sideboard, you can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider using table lamps, sconces, or string lights to add a warm glow to the area.
Creative Ways to Use Your Sideboards (They aren’t just for dining rooms alone!)
Since sideboards are so extremely practical and offer a source of lovely storage, it would be a shame to have them only in a dining room. Let’s look at other uses and locations in your home that will allow you to show off your favorite sideboard cabinet.
In a Living room
In your living room, your sideboard cabinet could also serve as a great place for proudly displaying your collections or trinkets. They can also provide storage space for family games, films, or even special glassware you don't want to keep in your kitchen cupboards.
In your Entryway
A sideboard in an entryway can serve as a versatile storage solution while adding style to the space. Utilize the drawers and cabinets to keep entryway essentials organized and easily accessible. Store items like keys, wallets, sunglasses, and gloves in the drawers or shelves. You can select a sideboard to fit the space based on the width of your entryway.
In Your Home Office
Working from home in any capacity and not having a dedicated space for materials can prove a challenge. Your sideboard can provide lots of surface space to hold decorative objects and office equipment can also be stored behind closed doors to keep your workspace neat, tidy, and stylish.
In The Bedroom
The idea of a sideboard cabinet in the bedroom has been a popular trend for the last few years. A TV can be hung over a sideboard and the cabinet space can be used to hold clothing in the same way a traditional bedroom dresser would. Mid-century modern styles are great for bedrooms because of their simple and minimal style details.
How do you make a sideboard cabinet look nice?
Create the illusion of extra space by adding a mirror above your sideboard. Black metal mirrors are also an ideal contrast to the natural beauty of oak furniture, with black picture frames perfect decorative details to bring the look together. Soften with houseplants to introduce some calming green to the scheme.
How do you use a sideboard in a living room?
Sideboards don't necessarily need to sit against a wall—they can also rest against a large piece of furniture, like a sofa, for a chic and modern look. Try setting your sideboard against a sofa if you're trying to better define a transitional or open-plan space, like the space between a living room and a dining area.
What items should be placed on a sideboard?
Sideboards are useful for storing everything you might need for dining – from cutlery and china to linen and also flatware. You can also store candles, matches, and glassware on a sideboard. Consider what you need to store in it when shopping for a sideboard – drawers will be more useful for storing candles, cutlery, and placemats; cupboards for glassware and china.
In Conclusion,
Styling a sideboard cabinet is the perfect opportunity for a personal touch. By putting these gorgeous pieces of furniture in your dining room, bedroom, entryway, or even living room, you can create a stylish and welcoming space. Show off your interior design skills with the above tips and bring home a unique sideboard cabinet.
Are you having trouble selecting the best sideboard for your home?
Read The Best Sideboards and Buffets That’ll Make You The Ultimate Hostess!
