Sideboard Styling Tips | How to Style Your Sideboard Like a Pro

A well-styled piece can be as simple as 1, 2, 3. All it takes to achieve a professional look with your sideboard styling is an eye for design (which you already have), and a few simple tips. Read on for some of our favorites as well as recommended pieces to get you started!

Sideboard Styling Tips | How to Style Your Sideboard Like a Pro

A well-styled piece can be as simple as 1, 2, 3. All it takes to achieve a professional look with your sideboard styling is an eye for design (which you already have), and a few easy tips. Read on for some of our favorites as well as recommended pieces to get you started!


 1. Start on the wall.

Draw the eye upward by hanging art or mirrors above your sideboard.

Choosing the right size and placement for your piece depends on the size of the art or mirror. There’s not hard and fast rule, but a good general approach is to ensure whatever piece(s) you choose (mirror or artwork) does not extend beyond the sides of the sideboard.

Design by Shapeside | Photography by Amy Bartlam

Design by Shapeside | Photography by Amy Bartlam

If you like to lean into the simple and natural yet modern look of the organic modern style, you can choose a few simple pieces to make a huge impact. For instance, combining a simple piece of art with a bowl or vase that has a found, one-of-a-kind feel is a perfect way to achieve the organic modern feel.

Achieve a relaxed look by opting to lean artwork rather than hang it. You could choose to lean one large piece, or play around with layering artwork using complementary pieces, or even mix art with a mirror. 

Image via Four Hands | SHOP THE LOOK: Perrin Sideboard

Image via Four Hands | SHOP THE LOOK: Perrin Sideboard

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2. Add a glow.

Bring light into the equation with a stunning table lamp or a set of candlesticks for your sideboard. When considering the size of the lamp or candlesticks, most medium-sized pieces will work beautifully, but play with larger styles in a more open space. Matching lamps on either side of your sideboard is an especially classic and sophisticated way to add balance and symmetry to your dining room design.

Design by House Seven Design | Photography by Robert Peterson

Design by House Seven Design | Photography by Robert Peterson

Design by Bodine White | Photography by Emily Sewell

Design by Bodine White | Photography by Emily Sewell

If you’re showcasing a special piece of art above your sideboard, you could take advantage of sleek and modern picture lighting to highlight the work while adding a glow to your space.

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3. Keep it organized.

Add trays, bowls, and decorative boxes to corral items you want to keep most accessible in your space. A sideboard can easily be transitioned into a stunning bar using a large tray to display your collection of spirits or luxury barware.

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BONUS TIP: Combine styles.

You’re completely free to mix and match these tips to find your true style. If you prefer a more minimalist design, you might opt for a single piece of art and a table lamp, an empty vase, or simple greenery. Maybe you take a “more is better” approach to your styling. If so, play with adding greenery, books, and vases or jars to your display for a stand-out look.

Design and photography by BNR interiors

Design and photography by BNR interiors


These tips aren’t just for sideboards!

These tips aren’t just for styling your buffet or sideboard — they’re useful for making built-ins and most larger, waist-high storage pieces like 9-drawer dressers, media consoles, and entryway tables look professionally and intentionally styled.

Design by Mindy Gayer | photography by Vanessa Lentine

Design by Mindy Gayer | photography by Vanessa Lentine

Already good on your storage styling? Feel free to explore this designer-curated selection of luxury pieces to refresh your cabinet, countertop, and shelf displays.

Image via @neskape.beach

Image via @neskape.beach

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Style away!

Available in classic, stylish, and contemporary styles, sideboards are a must-have storage solution, but what's on display is just as important as what's stored inside.

You're now armed with the knowledge for skillfully styling your sideboard (and other favorite pieces). The fun part about sideboard styling? You can easily swap out décor and refresh your home design without breaking the bank, so what are you waiting for?

If you’re styling with pieces from Scout & Nimble, don’t forget to share your space with us on Instagram using the hashtag #myscoutandnimble!

Design and photography by Oak Trail Home

Design and photography by Oak Trail Home

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