A good sideboard is more than just a storage solution – it provides an opportunity to showcase your style and the things you love including beautiful décor, personal collections, books, art, and so much more. In today’s post we’ll go over what you can include when styling your sideboard to begin transforming your space into a seamlessly curated design.
1. Create Symmetry Where You Can
One way many designers easily create symmetry on their sideboard is by placing two table lamps on each end, this look leans more traditional and will instantly provide a symmetrical appeal to your home. This style is normally done when the sideboard is large enough to do so. However, if yours isn’t or you like a more asymmetrical look, opt for placing a taller vase on the other end, this will help balance the space.
Credit: https://www.coxandcox.co.uk/
2. Include Greenery
In many of my ‘How To‘ blog posts, adding some sort of greenery or life into my designs is very important. Whether that be subtly using a few old branches or a larger plant that makes more of a statement, it’s always nice to bring in a little bit of nature into your home as a finishing touch.
Credit: mcgeeandco.com
3. Add Different Levels of Décor
Add accessories that have different heights to them. These can include candles, trays, bowls, infinity knots, balls, really anything goes that you love. It’s also time to place those coffee table books somewhere! Stack your décor on top of your books to create height and visual interest. Remember not to go too overboard in this area though, keep it clean and collected so that the space doesn’t feel too cluttered, I recommend having a maximum of 3 décor items (not including books).
Credit: High Street Market
4. Place Statement Art
If your sideboard is against the wall, place an oversized piece of art or photography behind it and use it as a focal point for your sideboard. A great tip on for hanging art above your sideboard is to hang it 4-6 inches above the sideboard and having it take up 2/3 the width of your sideboard. This allows the artwork to be at eye level and also the right scale.
Credit: Three Birds Renovations
5. Hang a Mirror
Already have enough art in your room? Hang a mirror instead! As a rule of thumb: never hang the mirror anymore than 6” above your sideboard.
Credit: lonny.com
6. Keep it Tidy and Minimal
As with many of my designs, achieving a minimalist, clutter-free space is one of my goals for my client’s homes. A great way to do this is by having a tray, basket, or bowl to help collect knick knacks of yours! A great aspect of sideboards is they are an excellent storage solution for those items you’d rather hide but need access to regularly.
Credit: Pete & Selena
7. Add Something Personal
It’s always nice to add a personal touch so that your sideboard doesn’t look like part of a showroom! Adding a picture frame for example is a great way to and a homey feel to the space. If you’re going for a minimalist look, opt for a thin frame with a larger mat (the more white space the better!) and have the frame leaning against a mirror for a simple yet artistic effect.
Credit: melissa_shapiro_interiors
Styling your sideboard can take time and it’s good to take a step back regularly and build up your design over a few days until it feels just right. It can sometimes take a little while to find all the right pieces that you feel coordinate well for your home. Enjoy the process and don’t be afraid to break the rules when you need to!