Sideboards

Sideboards and storage cabinets for dining and living spaces

A sideboard is a versatile low storage unit that combines cupboards, drawers, shelving and a useful top surface. Traditionally associated with dining rooms, sideboards are equally practical in living rooms, hallways and open-plan spaces where concealed storage helps keep everyday items organised without introducing tall or bulky furniture.

Two-door sideboards are a practical option for smaller walls and compact rooms. They can provide cupboard storage without taking up the width of a larger unit, while three and four-door designs offer additional capacity for tableware, serving pieces, books, games and household accessories. Models with both drawers and cupboards make it easier to separate smaller items from larger pieces.

Size and depth are just as important as door count. A narrow or shallow sideboard can help maintain comfortable walkways in hallways and smaller living rooms, while large and extra-large designs work well along longer walls or in spacious dining areas. Always check the full width, depth and door clearance before choosing a position.

Wood remains one of the most versatile finishes for sideboards. Oak and oak-effect designs create a lighter natural look, while mango wood, walnut tones and darker wood finishes bring more warmth and contrast. Solid and reclaimed wood pieces can introduce visible grain and individual character, while slatted, ribbed and fluted door fronts add texture to contemporary storage.

For a more industrial or minimalist finish, Metal Sideboards provide powder-coated, reclaimed and mixed-material options. Metal frames, dark finishes and slim legs can create a lighter visual footprint while still providing practical cupboard or shelf storage.

Glass-front storage offers a different balance between display and organisation. Glass Sideboards can showcase selected items behind glazed doors while keeping the overall shape lower than a traditional display cabinet. If you need more vertical display space, Display Cabinets provide a taller alternative for glassware, décor and collections.

High gloss sideboards suit interiors where a clean, reflective finish is preferred. White gloss can help a room feel lighter, while combinations of gloss fronts with wood-effect panels or darker accents create additional contrast. Matt, textured and natural finishes offer a softer alternative for more relaxed interiors.

In dining rooms, sideboards work particularly well for storing plates, glassware, linens and serving pieces close to the eating area. Positioning one near Dining Tables can create useful extra storage and a practical surface for serving food, lighting or decorative accessories.

In living rooms, a sideboard can store games, cables, books and everyday items while providing space above for lamps, artwork or a mirror. For narrower walls and entrances where full cupboard storage is not required, Console Tables offer a slimmer surface-led alternative.

Sideboards are also sometimes described as buffet cabinets or credenzas, especially when used for dining storage. Although terminology varies, the most important considerations are the overall dimensions, internal layout, materials and whether the combination of cupboards, drawers or shelves suits what you need to store.

FAQs

What is a sideboard used for?

A sideboard provides low-level storage for items such as tableware, glassware, linens, books, games and household accessories. Its top surface can also be used for lamps, artwork, mirrors or decorative pieces.

What is the difference between a sideboard and a cabinet?

A sideboard is generally lower and wider, while a cabinet can describe a wider range of storage furniture, including taller units. The exact terminology can vary between designs.

Where can I put a sideboard?

Sideboards work well in dining rooms, living rooms, hallways and open-plan spaces. Choose a location with enough room for doors and drawers to open without restricting walkways.

Should I choose a 2 door or larger sideboard?

A two-door sideboard is useful where space is limited, while three and four-door models normally provide more internal storage. The best choice depends on wall space and how much you need to store.

Are narrow sideboards suitable for hallways?

Yes. A narrower or shallower sideboard can provide useful hallway storage while helping to keep the main walking route clear. Always check the depth before ordering.

What materials are sideboards available in?

Sideboards can be made from solid wood, engineered wood, MDF, metal, glass and mixed materials. Finishes can include oak effect, mango wood, walnut tones, high gloss, painted surfaces and marble-style tops.

What is the difference between a sideboard, buffet cabinet and credenza?

The terms often overlap. Sideboard is the most common UK term, while buffet cabinet and credenza may describe similar low storage furniture, particularly when used in dining rooms.

How do I choose the right sideboard size?

Measure the available wall width and depth, then allow enough room for doors, drawers and surrounding walkways. Also consider the internal storage layout rather than choosing by exterior size alone.