How to Pick the Right Buffet

Posted on: December 26th, 2016

Buffet cabinets are furniture pieces most often used in the dining room for storage and as a place to serve food. Sometimes called sideboards, these cabinets also can be useful in other areas of the house. They come in a variety of styles and materials, making it easy to find one that complements your decorating style.

The type of buffet cabinet or cupboard you buy will depend in part on how you intend to use it. If you are looking for a furniture piece in which to display your fine china and crystal, as well as to provide storage for other items like linens and silverware, look for a buffet with glass doors like the ones pictured below.

If you throw casual dinner parties where your guests help themselves from a variety of food laid out in an attractive manner, a long, low buffet might be just what you’re looking for. Perhaps your buffet cabinet will be used as storage for a variety items that will not be on display. If so, choose a cabinet with solid doors to hide the clutter.

While buffet cabinets traditionally are used in the dining room, there is no reason to limit them to that location. If you need storage in a hallway or a catchall surface in your foyer, a buffet is just the ticket. Choose one with shelving and cupboards to store seasonal items like hats, scarves and even boots. Update your front entrance with a long, low buffet decorated for each season and featuring a basket or bowl to hold keys and mail.

Wherever you decide to place your buffet cabinet, it is important to choose one that is proportionate to the size of the space. A large buffet cabinet might be imposing in a small area, but it will enhance a larger room.

A more delicate style will be lost in a large room but find a home in a more diminutive dining room or kitchen eating area.

Consider the style of the furniture in the space where your buffet cabinet will be used. A cozy country dining room is just the spot for a primitive cabinet with a milk pain finish, while a contemporary loft area calls for a sleek-lined, highly polished black buffet.

Whichever buffet you choose, you can be sure that it will provide beauty as well as function to your home.