The perfect sideboard offers much more than mere storage and modern sideboards have been beautifully crafted to incorporate elegance and refinement into this little space saver. Gone are the days when sideboards served solely to store dining-related items and display decor atop them. With the influence of contemporary interior designers and the masterful craftsmanship of expert artisans, luxury sideboard now lend a timeless opulence to any space and include modern features like hidden storage.

Modern oak brown small sideboard beneath a striking piece of art in a modern living room.

Often thought of as bulky pieces of furniture for larger spaces like dining rooms, modern design has made the sideboard a far more versatile piece of furniture, especially as it serves as an element of design with which a style can be embellished, a useful surface and ad-hoc storage. It’s no wonder, then, that luxury designers are recommending finding a small sideboard for compact spaces like spare rooms, offices or bathrooms.

In order to establish whether you need a small sideboard or not, take a look at your space and see if there are any items that don’t belong on display. Chances are, there are plenty! Those items need a home, and what better home for them than a bespoke masterpiece that not only brings regality to your room but also relieves your space from overcrowding?

When to Consider Using a Small Sideboard

Compact spaces don’t have to limit your creativity and the way you utilise your space. There are a number of gems to be found in modern designer catalogues that not only offer you much-needed space but also sophistication and style. Modern small sideboards are curated works of art designed to give you more out of your limited space as well as elevate it by adding a touch of refinement. There’s a number of ways to use them, like:

In the bedroom

This is a terrific addition to your bedroom storage as it takes up less space than a chest of drawers. You can use it in kids’ rooms as a space for briefs, books, games and toys. A small oak sideboard would be ideal here, as it’ll be used frequently and necessitates a durable material.

In the kitchen

From storing cups and various small crockery, small sideboards also offer additional preparation or serving space. Their designs complement any aesthetic, so whether you have a rustic, farm-style or contemporary theme, there is something for you. Reclaimed wood in the kitchen is a consumer favourite, but of course, that’s based on personal preference.

In the living room

Use this elegant nook as a place to display family mementos while storing family games, TV accessories, or special glassware or chinas that are much too precious for the general kitchen cupboards.

In the bathroom

If you don’t have enough cabinet space in your bathroom, this might be the perfect solution. The sideboard can not only act as additional storage or a vanity but can even be cut into in order to place a small sink and transformed into a fitted sink cabinet. Just be sure to get a professional, as they have the skill set and knowledge to align everything accordingly.

In the dining room

Instead of using it for its conventional purpose of storing dining-related items, why not zero in on that generality a bit? For instance, store all your drinks and bottle opening and serving items in here so you know they’re within easy reach.

In the office

Those working from home will find this a huge help with decluttering workspace. Store your stationery, paperwork, folders and books in one convenient spot.

Vibrant yellow small sideboard placed beside a modern painting, with shadow light highlighting the top.

Things to Consider Before Buying

There are several key elements to consider before committing to a specific design style, size and so forth. Choosing the right one for your space depends on a variety of aspects, such as:

Space

The area where your small sideboard will be standing needs to be measured prior to the purchase. This is simply so you can ensure there is ample space around it and it won’t be so close to other furniture items that it touches. There should always be a decent enough space between each furniture piece to reduce a cluttered or disorganized look.

Size of other furniture

It’s crucial that you measure your existing furniture and be sure to get a sideboard that isn’t too bulky and doesn’t detract from whatever centerpiece you have laid out. A good rule of thumb is to ensure your sideboard is slightly taller than your dining table, but don’t worry if it’s the same height. The width doesn’t necessarily come with any rules; however, examine your space and base your decision on the space around the designated area.

Hallways and doorways

Amazingly, we often forget to measure the space we need to get through to get the sideboard where it needs to be. You don’t want to arrive with it and discover it can’t fit through the doors or hallways.

Seamless layout

In order to achieve a seamless layout, you need to have ample space to move freely around the sideboard even when the doors or drawers are open. Larger spaces can use the general rule of having 36 inches of space between the sideboard and other furniture, and smaller spaces can have between 18 and 24.

Closer view of a stunning small sideboard with glass doors, showcasing glassware inside.

Materials

While they come in a wide range of materials, selecting the optimal one for your space is vital.

Your decision should be based on what it will be used for, where it will be situated as well as your storage needs.

Metal

Metal sideboards come in an array of designs, shapes, and sizes and add an elegant industrial feel to your space. Their sleek finishes pair effortlessly with contemporary aesthetics, and since they’re lighter than some of the other materials, rearranging your layout is a breeze.

Acrylic or plastic

This modern gem adds refined, upscale undertones to your space and is not heavy either. It’s absolutely essential to use microfiber materials when cleaning it, though, as it is extremely susceptible to scratches.

Wood

Small oak sideboards are highly popular as oak wood allows you to incorporate a natural element into any design aesthetic. It comes in an astounding array of types of wood, designs, shapes and sizes.

Stylish glossy cream small sideboard with a table lamp and art decor, beautifully placed in a modern hallway setting.

Types of Small Sideboards

Every furniture piece in your space has a function, and your sideboard is no different.

Have a look below to see which is the ideal choice for your needs.

Server

Server sideboards are a fantastic way to add storage space in modest living areas. Their short, stubby legs remain consistent with space-saving. Store special-occasion dishes here or any small decoratives that should only surface when needed.

Credenza

Generally found in distinguished, formal designs, these offer ample space for dishes, linens, or any serving essentials. Many of these designs come with sliding doors to ensure minimal space is required to access them. Small black sideboards are very popular in this category.

Buffet

As the name suggests, these are designed with serving food atop them. They are more similar to servers, except they have a larger and narrower surface. There is still plenty of space to store dishes, utensils, place mats, and many other serving essentials.

Consider how much storage you need from your sideboard, as well as how much space you have available, before settling on one. An important thing to remember is not to be afraid to be unconventional. There are many uses for a sideboard, and each one brings out a different level of sophistication in the piece itself.

Stunning brown small sideboard with a stylish table lamp and modern art, an ideal addition to a minimalistic room.

How to Use a Small Sideboard

While they primarily stand against the wall, have a look at some innovative ways you can dress up your living space while reaping the full benefits of your sideboard storage:

Storage bench

Use it at the foot of your bed—or even at the sides—to add a touch of elegance.

TV unit

Enjoy it as a TV unit; just ensure its placement is in a comfortable viewing position.

Coffee bar

Perfect for storing all your coffee bar utensils and equipment as well as goods for replenishing. This way you have a sophisticated nook as your beverage station.

Bathroom cabinet

Bathroom storage is often a small-space problem. Get a contractor to help you place your sink in it and enjoy the added space.

Patio storage

Store your outdoor cushions and small yard equipment in a stylish metal sideboard and declutter your outdoors.

Luxury beige-colored small sideboard adorned with a beautiful vase and books.

How FCI London Can Help You

No matter how big or small your project is, dive into a luxury, guided experience with the best the UK interior design industry has to offer. FCI London is London’s foremost lifestyle and furniture house with a legacy that spans more than four decades long. Our designers have the pleasure of having renowned luxury brands across Europe at their side. This is precisely why we are so confident that our knowledge, resources, and connections will transform every design idea you can dream up into a breathtaking reality.

Our dedicated team of experts is available to discuss your vision seven days of the week and take you on a bespoke tour through our 30,000-square-foot showroom.

Come and enjoy free on-site parking as you take your pick of 700+ luxury brands in our sample library. You will also be pleasantly surprised by our various complementary services like project planning, 3D Rendering, special discounts, and a signature personalised service fit for royalty.

Book your appointment today!

Book an Appointment with an FCI Sideboards Expert

From getting your proportions right to nailing your style, our design team is at your disposal to help you find the perfect sideboards. Take advantage of our free consultation service by visiting our award-winning showroom today.

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