Whether you’re aiming for a modern, minimalist look or a more traditional feel, there are numerous ways to utilise a sideboard to complement your living room decor. A sideboard is not only a practical storage solution but also a stylish piece of furniture that can enhance the aesthetic of your living space.
Here are some of my living room sideboard ideas to help elevate your home decor.
What is a Sideboard?
A sideboard serves dual roles, blending aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. On the aesthetic front, its design and placement contribute to the overall decor of a room, offering an opportunity for displaying decorative items, art, or family heirlooms.
Simultaneously, the sideboard provides practicality by functioning as supplementary storage for dining essentials, such as dishes, cutlery, or linens. Its top surface often serves as a convenient space for serving during meals or displaying decorative elements. This combination of form and function makes the sideboard a versatile furniture piece, enhancing the visual appeal of a space while fulfilling practical storage needs.
Choosing the Right Style
Style is an important factor to consider when choosing a sideboard for your large or small living room. It can set the tone for the entire space and tie together different design elements.
Here are three popular styles for lounge or living room sideboards:
Modern and Minimal
If you prefer a streamlined and contemporary look, then a modern and minimal sideboard is the perfect choice for you. These sideboards are typically made of materials such as metal, glass, or high-gloss finishes. They often feature clean lines and geometric shapes, and they tend to be more functional than decorative.
When choosing a modern and minimal sideboard, consider the size and layout of your space. A small elegant sideboard can work well in a compact living room, while a larger more bulky sideboard can make a bold statement in a larger living space. I also advise thinking about the overall colour scheme of your room and using this to choose a sideboard that complements it, in both colour and design.
Vintage Charm
For those who love the charm and character of vintage furniture, a vintage-style sideboard can be a great choice. Vintage sideboards are often made of wood and feature decorative elements such as carved details and ornate hardware. They can add warmth and personality to a living room.
I suggest looking for one that has a timeless design aesthetic. It should be well-made and sturdy, with a rich patina that adds to its character. Consider pairing it with other vintage pieces in your living room to create a cohesive and considered look.
Rustic Appeal
If you prefer a more natural and organic look, then a rustic-style sideboard may be what you are looking for. These types of sideboards are typically made of wood, and often feature rough-hewn finishes and natural textures. They can also add warmth and depth to a living space.
Simple and understated design is often the way to go with rustic design. It should be well-crafted and durable, with a natural beauty that shines through. Consider pairing it with other natural materials such as leather and wool to create a cosy and inviting living room atmosphere.
A Functional and Aesthetic Storage Solution
As a furniture piece that is both functional and stylish, a sideboard is an ideal addition to any living room. It provides additional storage space for your belongings while also adding an aesthetic touch to the room. If done correctly, it can help to boost the overall look and feel of a space.
Maximising Storage Space
One of the most significant advantages of a sideboard is its ability to maximise storage space. With its multiple compartments and shelves, you can store a wide range of items, from books and dishes to glassware and trinkets. You can also use the top of the sideboard to display your favourite collections or decorative items.
One option that I love to use to further maximise storage space, is to consider a sideboard with drawers or cabinets. This will allow you to store many more small and medium size items out of sight, keeping your living room looking clean and organised.
Displaying Decorative Items
In addition to providing valuable storage space, a sideboard is also useful for displaying your favourite decorative and personal items. Consider placing objects such as ceramic or glass vases, candles, and picture frames on top of the sideboard. You can also use the shelves to display books, figurines, and other collectibles.
To make your collections stand out, I am a big advocate of using different lighting techniques. You can use small lamps or even candles to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Alternatively, you can use LED strip lights to highlight your collections and create a stunning visual effect.
Accessorising Your Sideboard
When accessorising your sideboard, there are a few key things to keep in mind. You want to create a cohesive look that complements the rest of your living room while also making the sideboard a focal point. Here are some ideas for how to achieve that:
Art and Mirrors
One of the best ways to make your sideboard stand out is to hang a beautiful or cherished piece of art or a decorative mirror above it. This draws the eye vertically and creates a sense of height in the room. If you have a large sideboard, consider hanging a group of smaller pieces to create a gallery wall effect. Alternatively, you could lean a large piece of art or a mirror against the wall, either behind the sideboard, or on top of the sideboard, for a more relaxed look.
Plants and Lighting
Plants and lighting are two other key elements to consider when accessorising your sideboard. A potted plant or vase of fresh flowers can add a pop of colour and bring life to the space. Additionally, a table lamp or pair of candle holders can provide both ambient and task lighting, making the sideboard a functional as well as decorative element.
Decorative Objects
As mentioned earlier, decorative objects are the perfect finishing touch to your sideboard. These can include anything from a collection of books to a set of decorative bowls or trays. When choosing decorative objects, think about creating visual interest through texture, shape and colour. Group objects together in odd numbers (such as three or five) for a more dynamic look.
Incorporating the Sideboard into Your Living Space
The sideboard is a versatile and functional piece of furniture that can be incorporated into your living room in a variety of ways. Here are a few tips on various ways to achieve this:
Creating Symmetry in the Living Room
If you want to create symmetry in your living room, then consider placing a sideboard on either side of your sofa. This will help to even out the room and create a balanced look. You can also add matching lamps or decorative items on top of each sideboard to further enhance the symmetry.
Another way to create symmetry is by pairing your sideboard with a matching coffee table or media unit. This will essentially tie the room together and create a more cohesive look.
Sideboards in Different Rooms
Sideboards are not just limited to the living room. They can also be used in other areas such as the dining room, bedroom, entryway or home office.
Dining Room
In the dining room, a sideboard can be used to store your dinnerware, cutlery, and glasses. It can also be utilised as a serving area when you are entertaining guests.
Bedroom
In the bedroom, a sideboard can be used to store your clothes, accessories, and other personal items. I have also seen them used as a vanity table and paired with a mirror and stool.
Entrance Hall
In an entrance hall, a sideboard lends itself to storing shoes, bags, and other items that you need to grab on your way out. It also doubles as a decorative piece to welcome guests into your home.
Home Office
In a home office, a sideboard is ideal for storing your books, papers, and other office supplies. It can also be used as a workspace when paired with a chair and desk lamp.
My Final Thoughts
To summarise my thoughts on living room sideboard ideas, I would say that incorporating a sideboard into your living space is a great way to add both function and style to your home.
With a bit of forethought, research and the tips I have given, you should have no problem finding the perfect sideboard design and style for your living room.
