How to Style a Sideboard

Sideboards are traditionally known for styling in a formal dining room providing essential storage space for china, silverware, and napkins. Also commonly known as a buffet, they added extra surface space for serving food during parties or large dinners. While this is still the case, we found that sideboards can be beautifully styled in living rooms, hallways, entries, and kitchens lending not only that necessary storage space, but also a refined, eye-catching design. We created our Henri Sideboard to effortlessly display in any room and want to share our favorite styling tips. 

Our first addition is something interesting and tall. We love to style our Frances Crystal Table Lamp. It provides additional light and the translucent base lends visual wetness and texture, beautifully contrasting with the density of the sideboard. Style the lamp on one end, adding something living or faux to the other. One of our favorite florals is the Fishtail Palm. It lends height and a natural, organic touch.

Our second additions are catchalls and sculptural pieces. The Marble Handkerchief Bowl is the perfect solution, adding texture with its waved design. We also love a bone box like the Keys or Plaid, bringing visual dimension and an organic feel. Play with different heights by stacking coffee table books, displaying one on the Lucite Book Display, or layering art. Add in our Oslo Dish for candy, keys, or bottle caps. The Alabaster Coasters  are perfect for protecting the surface and lending a natural tone.

Finally, add something with a grand scale behind the sideboard. We always suggest a mirror, like our Oxford Mirror. Its spacious, minimal design reflects light while lending elegance and sophistication to the room. Another idea is to hang a large artwork like the Pencil Sketch or Sunroom. Art always makes a statement, adding color, interest, and personal expression to the space.

With these tips, it is easy to style a sideboard in any room. We love the blend of solid, transparency, and mixed materials, creating an intentional, interesting design. If you’d like to watch Jess style sideboards, watch her videos here and here. For more styling how-tos, check out the blogs here.