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Explore NowSideboards, Buffets & Cabinets: Smart Storage for Stylish Dining Rooms
Looking to add more function and style to your dining room? A sideboard or buffet cabinet might be just what you need. These versatile pieces of furniture offer smart storage, extra serving space, and a polished look that can bring the whole room together.
Let’s walk through the differences, the perks, and how to find the right one for your space.
What’s the Difference Between a Sideboard, Buffet, and Credenza?
You’ve probably heard these terms used interchangeably, and for good reason—they’re all pretty similar. But there are some small differences worth knowing.
Sideboard
A sideboard is usually a long, low piece of furniture with drawers, cabinets, or both. It may have short legs or sit right on the floor. Traditionally used in dining rooms, sideboards are perfect for storing dishes, silverware, napkins, and table linens. The top surface also gives you room for displaying décor or setting out food during gatherings.
Buffet Cabinet
A buffet cabinet or buffet table is very much like a sideboard, but it’s often used more specifically for serving food. These pieces are especially handy during dinner parties or holiday meals when you need a spot for dishes, drinks, or desserts. Functionally, they’re nearly identical to sideboards, and the terms are often used interchangeably.
Credenza
You might hear credenza used more often in an office or living room, but design-wise, it’s very close to a sideboard—low, sleek, and great for storage. Many modern credenzas can work beautifully in a dining room. If you love clean lines and a more minimal look, a credenza might be your style.
Server Table
A server table is a smaller, more compact version of a buffet or sideboard. If you’re short on space or just need a spot for drinks and snacks, a server table offers a simple solution without taking over the room.
Hutch
A hutch includes both a base cabinet (which might be a buffet or sideboard) and a top portion with shelves or glass doors. Hutches are great for displaying dishes and décor while still giving you plenty of storage below. If you want a big statement piece with lots of function, a hutch might be the way to go.
Why You’ll Love Having One in Your Home
Sideboards and buffet cabinets aren’t just about looks. They bring serious function to your dining area—and beyond.
Tidy Up Your Dining Room
Tired of cramming dishes and linens into kitchen cupboards? A buffet cabinet gives you a designated spot for everything from holiday platters to those extra cloth napkins you only use once a year. Think of it as your dining room’s secret storage weapon.
With a mix of drawers, cabinets, and shelves, you can organize your items so they’re easy to reach when you need them—and out of sight when you don’t.
Add Extra Serving Space
Hosting family dinners or game night with friends? A sideboard or buffet cabinet offers valuable surface space for food, drinks, or desserts—especially when your table is already full.
Set up a self-serve taco bar, a drink station, or a coffee and dessert corner. Your guests will love the convenience, and you’ll love how organized everything feels.
Style It Your Way
One of the best parts about a sideboard? It’s the perfect place to show off your style. Use the top surface to display a few favorite pieces—maybe a lamp, a mirror, framed photos, or seasonal décor. It’s a simple way to add personality and warmth to the room.
Want a bold statement piece? Go for a sideboard in a rich wood finish or with decorative details. Prefer something sleek and modern? A minimal buffet in black, white, or matte finishes keeps things clean and contemporary.
Where Else Can You Use a Sideboard or Buffet?
While they shine in the dining room, these pieces work great in other areas too.
- In the Living Room: Use a sideboard as a media console to store electronics, games, or movies.
- In the Entryway: A buffet cabinet by the front door gives you space to drop keys, store shoes, or add decorative flair.
- In the Home Office: Need more storage for supplies, books, or tech? A credenza-style sideboard can be a stylish solution.
At RC Willey, we carry styles that work in all kinds of spaces, from rustic farmhouse to sleek contemporary. So wherever you need a little extra storage, there’s a piece that’ll fit right in.
What to Consider Before You Buy
Ready to bring one home? Here are a few tips to help you choose the right one:
- Measure Your Space: Make sure there’s enough room for the cabinet and to walk around it comfortably.
- Think About Storage Needs: Need more drawers? Extra cabinet space? Adjustable shelves? Choose based on what you’ll store inside.
- Match Your Style: Consider the other furniture in your space—your table, chairs, and flooring—and pick a piece that complements your overall look.
- Check the Height: If you’re using it for serving, make sure the height is comfortable for setting out food and drinks.
Choosing the Right Sideboard or Buffet for Your Home
Whether you're furnishing a brand-new space or updating your dining room, picking the right sideboard or buffet cabinet can make a big difference. These pieces offer a perfect mix of style, function, and storage, but with so many options, it helps to know what to look for.
At RC Willey, we’re all about helping you find furniture that works with your home and your life. Here's a simple guide to help you choose a sideboard or buffet that fits your style, your needs, and your space.
Start with Your Space
Before falling in love with a piece, grab a tape measure. Knowing how much room you have makes a big difference when choosing a buffet cabinet.
- Measure the wall where you plan to place the sideboard.
- Leave enough space around it so drawers and doors can open easily.
- Make sure there’s still a comfortable walkway around your dining table.
A good rule of thumb? Aim for a sideboard that’s about two-thirds the length of your dining table. This creates a balanced, visually pleasing look. If your room is smaller, consider a compact buffet or server table. For larger dining rooms, go longer and maximize your storage and serving space.
Match Your Style
Your sideboard should fit in with the overall style of your home. Whether you're going for cozy and classic or clean and modern, RC Willey has options to match every look.
- Modern
Think clean lines, smooth finishes, and minimal hardware. You’ll often find materials like black metal, glass, or sleek wood tones. Perfect for contemporary or urban spaces.
- Mid-Century Modern
A timeless favorite with tapered legs, warm wood tones, and simple forms. These pieces add retro charm while staying stylish and functional.
- Rustic & Farmhouse
These styles feature solid wood, distressed finishes, and natural textures. If you're aiming for warm, welcoming, and a bit of country charm, this is your match.
- Traditional
Elegant carvings, rich finishes, and classic shapes make these sideboards feel timeless. They pair beautifully with formal dining sets or vintage-inspired rooms.
- Transitional
A blend of traditional and modern, transitional pieces offer the best of both worlds. Great for spaces where you want flexibility and a style that can grow with you.
Focus on Function
Looks matter, but how your buffet functions is just as important. Think about what you want to store—and how you want to use it.
- Cabinets with Doors: Great for hiding larger items like serving trays, mixing bowls, or extra dish sets. These keep clutter out of sight but close at hand.
- Drawers: Perfect for organizing silverware, linens, candles, or even small electronics. Smooth-gliding drawers make it easy to grab what you need when you need it.
- Open Shelving or Glass Doors: If you have beautiful dinnerware, glassware, or collectibles, this is your chance to show them off. Glass panels or open shelving let you display while keeping items protected.
- Adjustable Shelves: Want flexibility? Adjustable shelves let you fit taller items like vases or stack dishes just the way you like.
What can you store in a buffet cabinet? Just about anything: holiday dinnerware, placemats, table runners, board games, extra candles—even snacks or drinkware. Think of it as a dining room’s built-in helper.
Choose the Right Material
The material of your sideboard not only affects how it looks—but also how long it lasts.
- Solid Wood
Built to last for years (even generations). It has a strong, sturdy feel and looks better over time. Solid wood sideboards come in a wide range of finishes, from rustic to refined.
- Metal Accents
Want an industrial or modern vibe? Look for pieces with black metal legs, frames, or hardware. They add a touch of edge and contrast.
Use It Beyond the Dining Room
Don’t limit your sideboard to just one room. These versatile pieces work all over the house!
Living Room
Use a sideboard as a TV stand or media console. It hides cords, holds remotes, and still gives you space for family photos, books, or decorative pieces.
Entryway
Create a welcoming entrance with a buffet cabinet in the entryway. Store gloves, scarves, or mail in the drawers—and top it off with a mirror, lamp, or floral arrangement.
Kitchen
Need extra counter or pantry space? A buffet cabinet can hold small appliances, cookbooks, or baking supplies. It can even double as a coffee station or snack bar.
Styling Tips to Make It Yours
Once you’ve picked the right piece, have fun styling it!
- Keep things balanced. Mix tall and short items for visual interest—like a vase on one side and a stack of books on the other.
- Add height above. Hang a mirror or piece of art above your buffet to draw the eye upward and make the space feel complete.
- Make it personal. Add framed photos, travel souvenirs, or decorative bowls to tell your story.
- Use trays and boxes. Group items together to avoid clutter and add layers of texture.
- Bring in greenery. A plant or bouquet of fresh flowers adds life, color, and a little movement.
Find the Perfect Sideboard or Buffet at RC Willey
From sleek and modern to warm and rustic, RC Willey has sideboards and buffet cabinets that fit your space, your needs, and your budget. Whether you’re entertaining guests or just want to stay organized, we’ve got the perfect piece to help you do it all—without sacrificing style.
Visit one of our showrooms or browse online to explore our wide selection. Our team is here to help you find furniture that fits your life—and makes your home feel even more like home.







