sidebord

Sidebord is a term used in several languages to denote a long, low storage furniture piece placed along a wall. In English, the closest equivalent is a sideboard (also called a buffet or credenza). A sidebord typically features a flat top surface and storage behind a combination of cabinets, drawers, and sometimes open shelves. The design ranges from antique regional carvings to streamlined contemporary pieces. The top surface is used for serving meals, displaying dishes, or organizing decorative items; the storage can hold dinnerware, table linens, or media accessories.

Traditionally, sideboards were placed in dining rooms as part of the serving area, enabling food service and display during gatherings. They date to early modern Europe and became common in 18th- and 19th-century interiors. Over time, variations emerged with higher or lower profiles, glass-front panels, and different finishes. In modern homes, a sideboard can serve multiple roles, such as a dining-storage unit, a console behind a sofa, a hallway storage piece, or a media console when paired with a television.

Materials include solid wood, plywood with veneers, metal accents, and glass. Finishes span from natural wood tones to painted or lacquered surfaces. Care depends on the material but generally includes dusting, avoiding moisture on wood, and occasional waxing or polishing for protecting veneers.

See also: Buffet, Credenza, Console table.