Dining room storage solutions: sideboards vs. cabinets

11 September 2025

Storage furniture has the potential to transform your dining room into a stylish and well-organised space. Choosing the right furniture can be challenging when deciding between sideboards and cabinets, as both options provide ample storage while enhancing the room's appearance. But which one should you opt for? In today's bLOG post, we take a look at how these two types of storage solutions differ so that you can make an ideal choice for your dining area.

What is a sideboard?

A sideboard typically has a low-profile silhouette and is simple and tidy in appearance. Typically crafted from solid wood, it features plenty of compartments with doors and sometimes drawers, making it an ideal piece in the dining room for keeping items like tableware and cutlery neatly tucked away but conveniently within reach. The surface is broad and flat, allowing it to be utilised for displaying decor or serving food during gatherings.

While sideboards were traditionally used to provide storage space in the dining room, this piece of furniture can be used in another room of the house, including the living room or even near the entryway. Nowadays, there is a wide array of options to choose from: most of our sideboards are made of solid eco-wood such as reclaimed teak, FSC™-certified teak and sustainably sourced oak, but range in styles including raw-and-rustic, mid-century modern and minimalist design. Some of our designs feature beautifully carved door panels, which creates visual interest whilst providing a beautiful backdrop to any setting.

What is a cabinet?

A cabinet, commonly referred to as a buffet and hutch, is typically a taller storage furniture piece found in dining rooms. Some cabinets feature open shelving or compartments which enable you to proudly showcase your dinnerware and glassware. Cabinets also have closed compartments and drawers, providing an excellent space for storing linens, silverware, and other essential serving items. Like sideboards, cabinets are also an excellent choice as living room furniture, as they help keep the clutter at bay.

Key differences between sideboards and cabinets

Although both cabinets and sideboards serve as excellent storage solutions for the dining room, they do have some differences to consider. We've included these sideboard and cabinet differences below:

Feature

Sideboards

Cabinets

Storage Depth

Shallow compartments, ideal for silverware

Deeper shelves, suitable for bulkier items

Organisation Options

Limited to drawers and cupboards

Drawers, cupboards, and can sometimes include open shelves to display items

Item Display

Ample surface area on top for displaying decor or serving food when guests are over

May have open shelving to display personal belongings

Room Fit

Features a lower profile and can be smaller in width which is ideal for small spaces

Typically requires larger areas and/or taller ceilings

In conclusion, both cabinets and sideboards are both excellent solid wood furniture options for storage in your dining area. A sideboard is ideal if you wish to display your decor or serving items, as it allows easy access during social gatherings. Conversely, a cabinet is more suitable for maintaining a tidy appearance, offering greater closed storage.