A buffet, also known as a sideboard, is a versatile piece of furniture that enhances both the functionality and style of your dining room. Beyond providing valuable storage, a well-styled buffet serves as a focal point, creating a welcoming and curated space. Whether your dining room leans towards modern minimalism or classic elegance, styling your buffet thoughtfully can elevate the entire room.
Here’s a guide to styling your buffet beautifully while ensuring it remains a practical and cohesive element of your dining space.
Choosing the Right Buffet for Your Space
Before styling your buffet, it's important to select one that suits your dining room layout and needs. Consider the following when choosing a buffet:
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Size & Proportion: The buffet should complement your dining table in scale. A large dining table pairs well with a wider buffet, while a more compact dining area benefits from a streamlined design. Boori offers 1.6m (with 4 drawers) and 1.88m (with 6 drawers) sideboards.
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Storage Needs: If you need extra storage for dinnerware, table linens, or glassware, opt for a buffet with drawers and cabinets with ample storage.
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Material & Finish: Boori sideboards boast frame and drawers made from plywood with a matte timber-look laminate; with feet crafted from sustainably sourced European Beech wood.
Now that you have the perfect buffet, let’s dive into styling it effectively.
1. Start with a Clean Slate
Clear everything off the surface before you begin. This allows you to approach the design with a fresh perspective and prevents clutter from creeping in.
2. Anchor Your Design with a Statement Piece
A large statement piece sets the tone for your buffet styling and creates a focal point. Consider:
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A large mirror to reflect light and make the room feel more spacious.
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A bold piece of artwork that ties in with your dining room’s colour palette.
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A decorative wall hanging, such as a woven tapestry or wooden panel, for added texture.
For a contemporary look, try positioning a round mirror centrally above the buffet to soften sharp edges in a modern space.
3. Create Balance with Varying Heights
To avoid a flat and one-dimensional look, incorporate items of different heights. A balanced composition might include:
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Tall Elements: A vase with fresh greenery or a sculptural lamp.
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Medium Elements: Stacked books, a decorative bowl, or a candle holder.
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Low Elements: Small trinkets, a ceramic dish, or coasters.
Placing a tall vase on one end, a shorter object on the other, and something central in between helps create visual harmony.
4. Use Trays for Organisation
A stylish tray can serve as a foundation to group smaller items together, making the display feel intentional rather than scattered. Try:
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A wooden or marble tray to hold candles, a small potted plant, and coasters.
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A decorative metallic tray for a sophisticated touch, perfect for glassware or a cocktail setup.
5. Layer with Textures and Materials
Mixing materials keeps the arrangement interesting. A combination of wood, ceramic, glass, and metal adds depth to the display. For example:
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A ceramic vase alongside a glass candle holder.
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A woven basket next to a metallic lamp.
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A wooden sculpture contrasted with a marble tray.
6. Incorporate Natural Elements
Adding organic touches brings life to your buffet. Consider:
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Fresh or dried flowers in a sculptural vase.
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A potted plant such as a fiddle-leaf fig or trailing ivy.
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A bowl of seasonal fruit for a pop of colour and practicality.
7. Maintain Functionality
If your buffet is frequently used for serving food or drinks, keep part of the surface free for practical use. A buffet with ample storage ensures everything you need is within reach while keeping the top surface tidy.
8. Seasonal Updates
To keep the space feeling fresh, update your buffet styling throughout the year. Consider:
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Spring/Summer: Light, airy decor with fresh flowers and pastel tones.
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Autumn/Winter: Warm candlelight, rich textiles, and darker wood accents.
Swapping out small accessories like napkins, vases, and candles allows for effortless seasonal transitions.
Matching Materials & Styles
For a cohesive look, pair your buffet with a dining table that shares similar materials or finishes. Some stylish combinations include:
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A wooden buffet with a solid timber dining table for a classic and warm feel.
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A white or light oak buffet with a modern Scandinavian-style table for a bright, airy aesthetic.
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A dark-stained buffet with a marble or glass-top table for a contemporary and sophisticated touch.
Consider Storage Needs
If your dining room lacks extra cabinetry, choosing a buffet with deep drawers or shelving ensures you have space for tableware, serving trays, and dining essentials, making entertaining effortless.
Final Touches
Buffet styling is all about balancing aesthetics with functionality. Whether your dining space is modern, traditional, or eclectic, following these expert tips will help you create a beautifully curated buffet that enhances your dining room.
Boori’s range of furniture, including sideboards and dining sets, is designed with both practicality and timeless style in mind, making it easy to find the perfect match for your home.
With thoughtful styling and the right furniture choices, your buffet can become a stunning focal point that not only looks beautiful but also serves as a functional asset in your dining space.
