Sideboards and cabinets are more than just storage furniture — they're style statements. Whether in your living room, dining area, or entryway, how you decorate these surfaces can elevate your entire home aesthetic. In this guide, we’ll walk through 10 inspiring and practical ways to style sideboards and cabinets like a pro interior designer.
Related reading: What is a sideboard? The difference of sideboard and wine cabinet
Table of Contents
- 1. Use Statement Artwork
- 2. Layer with Mirrors
- 3. Incorporate Greenery
- 4. Style with Books
- 5. Showcase Personal Collections
- 6. Create Height with Lamps or Sculptures
- 7. Mix Textures and Materials
- 8. Rotate Seasonal Decor
- 9. Use Decorative Trays
- 10. Keep It Functional and Clutter-Free
1. Use Statement Artwork
A large piece of art above a cabinet can anchor the entire vignette. Whether it’s an abstract canvas, a minimalist print, or a vintage oil painting, make sure it complements the color palette and scale of your furniture.
2. Layer with Mirrors
Mirrors add depth and reflect natural light, making a room feel brighter and larger. A round mirror centered above your sideboard can also introduce softness to angular furniture.
3. Incorporate Greenery
Add life to your cabinet display with fresh or faux plants. Use a tall leafy plant for height or a low succulent arrangement for a modern look.
- Great choices: Monstera, Fiddle Leaf Fig, Eucalyptus stems
4. Style with Books
Stack a few beautiful coffee table books horizontally and top with a small decor object like a candle, crystal, or ceramic dish. It adds personality and a curated touch.
Tip: Choose books that reflect your interests — art, travel, design — and mix vertical with horizontal stacks for dimension.
5. Showcase Personal Collections
Display items that tell your story. Whether it’s ceramic vases, vintage cameras, or travel souvenirs, group them intentionally for a gallery-like effect.
6. Create Height with Lamps or Sculptures
Play with vertical space using tall items like table lamps, candle holders, or sculptural pieces. It balances lower decor like trays and books.
7. Mix Textures and Materials
Texture brings warmth and richness. Combine materials such as wood, metal, ceramic, and glass. Try a brass lamp with a linen shade, paired with a rustic wooden bowl or glossy ceramic vase.
8. Rotate Seasonal Decor
Keep your display fresh by updating with the seasons. In spring, add tulips and pastel ceramics; for autumn, try pumpkins and amber glass; in winter, bring in pine branches and candles.
9. Use Decorative Trays
Trays corral items and add structure. A mirrored or marble tray can hold candles, diffusers, or small plants while keeping the space neat and intentional.
10. Keep It Functional and Clutter-Free
Don’t sacrifice utility for aesthetics. Keep essentials like keys, coasters, or cutlery accessible but styled. Use decorative boxes or bowls to store items out of sight while maintaining beauty.
Remember: Less is more. Leave negative space to let each item shine.
Conclusion
Whether you're going for minimal and modern or layered and eclectic, these 10 strategies will help you turn your sideboards and cabinets into functional works of art. Take inspiration from these ideas, but don’t forget to let your personality shine through.
Continue Reading: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Sideboard
