Beyond the Dining Room: How to Choose & Style the Perfect Sideboard
Often the most versatile piece in any home, the sideboard or console table is a true design powerhouse. It's a stylish storage solution, a stage for your favourite decor, and a functional anchor for any room—from the entryway to the living space.
But its versatility can also make it tricky to choose. What size is right? What style works best? Here’s our guide to selecting the perfect sideboard and styling it with confidence.
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1. First, Define Its Purpose
Before you fall in love with a design, think about the primary job your sideboard will do.
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For the Dining Room: If it’s for storing dinnerware and serving food, look for a piece with ample cabinet space and a durable top surface. A longer, classic sideboard like our Keats Sideboard is perfect for this role.
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For the Entryway: As the first thing guests see, a console table should make a statement. Look for a narrower design with drawers to discreetly store keys, mail, and other daily essentials.
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For the Living Room: A sideboard can be a stylish alternative to a traditional TV unit, hiding electronics while providing a beautiful surface for a lamp or artwork.
2. Get the Scale and Proportion Right
A sideboard should complement the room, not overwhelm it.
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Height: A standard sideboard is typically about 90cm high. In an entryway or living room, this is a perfect height. In a dining room, ensure the top is slightly higher than your dining table for a balanced look.
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Length & Depth: Make sure to leave adequate "breathing room"—at least 15-20cm on either side of the piece. For depth, ensure it doesn't obstruct a walkway. A narrower console is often better for hallways and smaller spaces.
3. Styling Your Sideboard: The Art of the Vignette
Now for the fun part. Styling the surface of your sideboard is how you inject personality. Follow the simple rule of three: Height, Light, and Life.
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Add Height: Create a focal point with a tall element. This could be a striking piece of wall art or a large mirror hung just above the centre of the sideboard. This anchors the entire display.
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Add Light: A beautiful table lamp placed on one side adds warmth, ambience, and another layer of height. It makes the space feel inviting, especially in the evening.
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Add Life (and personality): This is where you bring in smaller objects.
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Stack a few beautiful books.
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Place a decorative tray to corral smaller items.
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Add a sculptural object or a beautiful vase with fresh or faux botanicals to bring in natural texture.
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Final Thoughts
The sideboard is your home’s most adaptable chameleon. By choosing the right piece for your needs and styling it with a few thoughtful objects, you can create a corner that is not only beautiful and organized but also uniquely you.
Ready to find the perfect foundation?