A sideboard, which is more commonly referred to as a buffet, is a type of side cabinet found in dining areas or kitchens. A staple in most homes and interior decoration magazines, sideboards have been around for centuries. They date back to the times when fitted cupboards were not a staple construction idea. Mostly found resting against the walls of dining rooms and kitchens, sideboards provide adequate storage facilities for culinary-related stuff.
Multipurpose sideboards for homes
Sideboards make a substantial contribution to modern dining rooms because of the practicality they offer. Modern sideboards have several drawers and cupboards to add to their storage capacity. Crockery, cutlery and table linen are usually kept inside and the top is useful for placing a meal before the service begins.
Sideboard cabinets are a particularly great option for chic storage in smaller living spaces in modern households. Even though contemporary homes have kitchen cabinet sets with adequate storage areas, sideboards are always a welcome addition to create extra space.
Sideboards in contemporary designs are futuristic in appeal and are usually rectangular. While wooden sideboards are always a good choice, the ones manufactured from metals may be selected only if they sync with the rest of the décor.
Metallic sideboards are usually fitted with hardware of chrome or steel. Whatever the nature of their making, sideboards are useful for storing a multitude of items. Along with crockery and cutlery, serving dishes, hot plates, napkins, wiping cloths, table mats and other things associated with serving meals are kept in the sideboard’s drawers and shelves.
Materials and nature of sideboards
One can choose from among the different types of sideboards that are made from a variety of materials, depending upon the budget. The quality of the sideboards would vary as per the construction and design of the furniture range selected. In general, when you go looking for modern sideboards, you’ll come across sideboards manufactured from wood, with a veneer finish. You may also want to explore the range of sideboards having a composite base and matched with wooden veneers.
While making your purchase, do think of the maintenance issues and problems that may come your way in future such as scratches, bumps, or burns. Careful handling of sideboards becomes necessary to improve upon their durability and longevity.
If you are interested in investing in a robust piece of furniture only, then you may want to choose a solid wood structure as an alternative to veneer. Scratches and bumps can be sanded and repainted if you select solid wood. If budget is a constraint, then you may want to invest in inexpensive pine sideboards instead of the costlier hardwood sideboards. These durable and beautifully crafted examples can match almost all kinds of interior décor themes and styles to perfection.
While selecting a new sideboard, it’s important to keep the space availability and usage in mind. Ornate sideboards, or the ones in the vintage category, boast of quality craftsmanship. They have an eternal appeal and give off a unique flair. However, as these high-quality sideboards are expensive and exclusive, they must be handled with care.
Styles of sideboards
When it comes to freezing upon a style of a sideboard, there are several options. Modern sideboards are sleek and simplistic in design. They are usually rectangular and offer a millennial touch with metallic or glossy finish and colors that are ‘in’. Traditional ones, on the other hand, are usually made of wood with designs that are classic. In most cases, they will take you back to the bygone eras and present a vintage appeal. They feature ornate carvings, are robust and strong, and give a warm and earthy feel.
Contemporary style sideboards possess wood veneers and clean designs. They may also feature certain mid-century craftsmanship that sets them apart from the rest. However, if you are in search for 20th-century designs then look no further than sideboards in the retro category. These sideboards are unique in their appeal and are manufactured keeping the old-age designs in mind. Very chic and elegant, they present muted colors to match your interiors in every conceivable manner.
French country style of sideboards are generally made of pine and are white in color. If you have already invested in white furniture pieces at home then it would work wonders to add such sideboards to your existing collection. But if you are desirous of buying sideboards with rustic decor motifs then opt for the farmhouse style. These sideboards manage to present a rustic and rougher look and are similar to the ones falling in the country category.
It is important to ascertain your immediate needs and requirements as well as budget before settling for the sideboard of your choice. Take a closer look at the available space where you would like to place your new sideboard. It’s best to choose a place that’s against the wall and close to your dining table. Above all, purchase one that matches well with your existing furniture.
