Skip to content
One Dinner Party, Two Names
Picture this: you’re preparing for a holiday dinner. Guests are arriving, the table is set, and you suddenly realize you need a place for the extra serving dishes and bottles of wine. In many homes, this is where a sideboard or a buffet becomes the unsung hero.
But here’s the twist—many people use the words interchangeably, leaving buyers scratching their heads. Are they really different pieces of furniture? Or simply two names for the same thing? The truth is a bit of both.
A Tale of Two Histories
The sideboard has English roots, emerging in the 18th century as a practical yet elegant storage solution. Early sideboards were often simple tables with drawers, but by the Victorian era, they had evolved into showpieces—ornately carved, large, and symbolic of wealth. Over time, especially in the mid-20th century, the design shifted toward sleek, modern styles. Today, sideboards are celebrated for their versatility, finding a home not only in dining rooms but also in living spaces, entryways, and even bedrooms.
The buffet, on the other hand, traces its lineage back to France. The word itself comes from the French tradition of serving meals “buffet-style,” where food was displayed for guests to help themselves. To make this possible, taller storage furniture with broad surfaces was used. This design made its way across Europe and eventually into American dining rooms, where the buffet became synonymous with entertaining and hospitality.
Key Differences Between a Sideboard and a Buffet
While sideboards and buffets share a family resemblance, their proportions and purpose set them apart. Sideboards are typically lower, with a grounded appearance that makes them blend easily into different rooms. Their designs are often sleeker, which explains their popularity in modern homes.
Buffets are taller, commanding more presence in a dining room. Their extra height makes them practical for serving, especially when hosting large gatherings. While sideboards may moonlight as media consoles or entryway tables, buffets rarely stray far from the dining room, where they fulfill their traditional role.
A Practical Comparison
| Feature | Sideboard | Buffet |
|---|---|---|
| Height | Lower, sleek profile | Taller, comfortable serving height |
| Style | Versatile, modern, adaptable | Formal, traditional, elegant presence |
| Use | Storage + décor across multiple rooms | Primarily for serving and storage |
| Placement | Dining, living, entryway, bedroom | Almost always dining room |
Which Should You Buy?
The choice depends less on strict definitions and more on lifestyle. If you live in a compact space or prefer flexible furniture, a sideboard is often the better choice. Its proportions make it easy to adapt—one day it holds dinnerware in the dining room, the next it serves as a stylish media console in the living room.
If your home is centered around hosting, and formal dining is a regular event, a buffet makes more sense. Its taller surface provides the perfect station for laying out dishes, drinks, or desserts, while its storage keeps fine china and table linens close at hand.
Beyond the Dining Room
What makes sideboards especially appealing today is their ability to transcend traditional roles. In modern interiors, a sideboard can act as an entryway anchor, offering both storage and a stylish first impression. In a living room, it can hide clutter while doubling as a statement piece under a large mirror or artwork. Even bedrooms benefit, where a sideboard can step in as an alternative dresser.
Buffets, while more specialized, aren’t without flexibility. In large foyers, they can serve as dramatic focal points, and in home offices, they provide generous storage without the utilitarian feel of filing cabinets. Still, they are most at home in dining rooms, where their height and breadth shine.
Materials and Style Considerations
When choosing between the two, consider the materials and finishes that best complement your space. Sideboards often appear in lighter woods, lacquers, or mixed materials like wood and metal, reflecting their modern appeal. Their clean lines make them ideal for Scandinavian or mid-century inspired homes.
Buffets, by contrast, tend to embrace richness and tradition. Solid hardwoods like oak, mahogany, or cherry dominate, often accented with detailed carving, brass hardware, or even paired with a hutch for a complete dining set. These pieces feel timeless, anchoring a room with their weight and presence.
Styling Ideas
A sideboard thrives as both a storage and display surface. Above it, a large framed mirror or a bold piece of art creates balance. On the surface, mix height and texture—think a lamp, a ceramic vase, and a stack of coffee table books. Inside, you can tuck away anything from glassware to board games.
A buffet usually commands a bit more formality. Many homeowners prefer to keep its surface ready for service, but it can still be styled elegantly when not in use. Trays with decanters, clusters of candles, or seasonal décor can make it feel inviting without overwhelming the dining room.
Trends in Modern Homes
Designers today are reinterpreting both sideboards and buffets. Minimalist sideboards with hidden handles and matte finishes are highly popular, blending seamlessly into open-plan living spaces. At the same time, vintage buffets are experiencing a revival, often repurposed as statement pieces in eclectic homes. Two-tone finishes—such as painted bases with natural wood tops—are another growing trend, appealing to homeowners who want both warmth and contrast.
There’s also a push toward multifunctionality. Some buffets now come with built-in wine racks or sliding doors, while sideboards often double as TV consoles with integrated cable management. These hybrid designs show how timeless pieces can adapt to modern living.
Summary: The Essential Takeaway
Both sideboards and buffets are timeless, practical, and beautiful. The sideboard offers versatility, easily adapting to different rooms and décor styles. The buffet, taller and more formal, remains a dining room classic for hosts who love to entertain.
Your decision ultimately comes down to lifestyle: do you prefer flexible furniture that evolves with your needs, or do you want a traditional showpiece that celebrates dining and hospitality? Whichever you choose, you’ll gain not just storage, but a piece of furniture that elevates your home.
FAQs
1. Can a sideboard double as a buffet?
Yes. Many homeowners use sideboards in dining rooms for serving. While technically shorter, they often perform the same function.
2. Are buffets old-fashioned?
Not at all. In fact, vintage buffets are increasingly popular as statement pieces in modern and eclectic interiors.
3. What is the difference between a credenza and a sideboard?
A credenza is typically slimmer, with sliding doors, and was originally designed for offices. Sideboards are more decorative and versatile.
4. Which is better for small spaces?
Sideboards are usually the better option, as their lower profile feels less imposing.
5. How do I style a sideboard or buffet?
Keep balance in mind. Pair tall objects like lamps or vases with horizontal pieces like books or trays. Avoid overcrowding the surface—leave space for the furniture to breathe.