Buffets & Sideboards

A buffet or sideboard solves two problems at once—storage for the things you’d rather not see, and a surface to style or serve from. Shop designer-curated sideboards, credenzas, and buffets for the dining room and beyond.

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About Buffets & Sideboards

Buffet, sideboard, or credenza — what’s the difference?

The terms overlap. 'Buffet' and 'sideboard' usually mean a dining-room storage piece for linens, serveware, and barware, with a top for serving. 'Credenza' often describes a lower, longer, mid-century-leaning version that works just as well in a living room or entry. The function is the same: closed storage plus a styling surface.

What size sideboard do I need?

Scale it to the wall and (if it’s a serving piece) to your dining table—roughly two-thirds the table’s length looks balanced. Leave clearance for doors and drawers to open, and if it sits behind chairs, allow room to pull them out. Height usually lands around 32–36 inches, comfortable for serving.

Where can you use one?

Beyond the dining room, a sideboard works as a living-room media console, an entryway drop zone, or extra storage in a home office. Closed cabinets hide clutter; a mix of drawers and cabinets handles everything from table linens to board games.

How to style a sideboard

Lean a large piece of art or a mirror above, then create two or three vignettes across the top—a lamp at one end, a stack of books and an object in the middle, a bowl or plant at the other. Leave breathing room so it reads collected, not crowded.

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Buffets & Sideboards in Real Rooms

Real spaces designed by Havenly designers, featuring buffets & sideboards — get inspired, then shop the look.

24 designer rooms

Buffets & Sideboards FAQs

What's the difference between a buffet and a sideboard?

Very little—both are dining storage pieces with a serving surface. 'Sideboard' is the catch-all term; 'buffet' often implies a serving focus; 'credenza' is the lower, longer, mid-century cousin.

How long should a sideboard be relative to the table?

About two-thirds the length of your dining table looks balanced when the two share a wall or sit near each other.

Can I use a sideboard outside the dining room?

Definitely—they make great media consoles, entryway storage, or office credenzas thanks to the mix of closed storage and surface space.

How tall are most sideboards?

Usually 32–36 inches—a comfortable height for serving and for hanging art or a mirror above.

Can a Havenly designer help me choose a sideboard?

Yes—take our style quiz or book a designer, and we'll recommend pieces sized to your room, your routine, and your style.