Do you live in a small home or have limited storage space? We hear you. The good news is that there's a stylish small sideboard to suit every compact space.
Traditionally used in living rooms and dining rooms to store crockery and to serve food, nowadays, sideboards are the perfect mix between storage space and a chic design statement, helping to tidy, conceal, organise and display.
'Small sideboards work wonders at maximising space in a compact home,' says Jonathan Clark, the creative director of Shelved. 'Whether within alcoves, under the window or even doubling up as a side table in the lounge, small sideboards offer great versatility.'
When choosing a small sideboard, you want to look for designs that play on height, so go vertical. Those on elevated legs will also help to give the room a spacious feel and show more of the flooring. If you want a small sideboard that sits low to the ground, and perhaps a bit wider, limit this to two cabinet doors so that it's not taking up too much floor space. The depth is key here, so you'll want to look for a slim or narrow sideboard that's more on the shallow side.
Where should you put a small sideboard?
'Small sideboards are flexible additions to any home as they can fit perfectly into what would otherwise be empty spaces,' says Elena Mellowes, the head of buying at Oak Furnitureland.
'Hallways and alcoves are perfect examples; small sideboards nestle perfectly into these spots and can become really practical additions to these otherwise often tricky spaces. In smaller homes, small sideboards can double up as media units for those who don't mind their TV perched a little higher within the room too.'
How do you style a sideboard?
'When it comes to styling, you still often have between 85cm - 100cm worth of sideboard top to play with, which is perfect styling territory,' says Elena.
'My main recommendation would be to stick to three key items; one for height, such as a beautiful candle stick, print or vase, one for practicality, like a flat vessel or bowl, and finally, one for personality. So, something you love, or a treasured possession that needs a prominent home.
'By combining these three things, and by paying particular attention to their proportions, you will always ensure your furniture is not only practical but also beautiful.'
What is the most popular style of sideboard?
'Modular sideboards are undoubtedly one of the most popular styles. They offer a huge amount of flexibility and potential, making them the perfect storage solution for homes of all sizes,' explains Jonathan. 'Additionally, the durable construction makes it an ideal choice for long-term use, providing practicality and style to your home for years to come.'
We've rounded up our favourite small sideboards so you can up your storage-style game, no matter what space you have available...
Design lovers will adore this statement cabinet, made from a combination of painted MDF and natural bamboo in a ribbed finish. There are three adjustable shelves inside for plenty of storage.
With its eye-catching chevron front, this sideboard adds a touch of sophistication to any room. The removable shelves provide customisable storage options, while the soft-closing doors ensure a quiet and smooth experience.
Dimensions: Height 69.5cm x Width 93.35cm x Depth 39cm
If your floor space is limited but you have plenty of height to work with, then this tall sideboard is a brilliant option. We love the combination of industrial-style legs with the natural finish of the rattan doors.
Dimensions: Height 120cm x Width 80cm x Depth 38cm
Add a pop of colour to your home with Habitat's playful blue sideboard. Behind the two fluted glass doors are three shelves, providing enough space for plates, bowls, glasses, and more.
Dimensions: Height 84cm x Width 100cm x Depth 35cm
With sleek, clean lines, this grey sideboard offers the best of both worlds – concealed and open storage. It has a Scandi-inspired design with splayed legs and an adjustable shelf depending on how much space you need.
Dimensions: Height 105cm x Width 100cm x Depth 41.8cm
Stash your crockery and glassware in style with Dusk's taupe small sideboard. Design features include gold-effect legs, a matte finish, smooth curved lines, and a symmetrical ridge detail.
Designed with an on-trend home in mind, this stylish sideboard features a sturdy black frame with rattan doors. Its small stature makes it the perfect fit for awkward spaces.
This slimline sideboard has been designed with after-work drinks in mind. With an oak veneer top and tapered gold legs, it borrows its rounded design from the 1950s and has plenty of space for wine glasses.
With a black frame and oak finish, this compact sideboard has an industrial aesthetic, complemented by metal legs and handles. It works in all spaces, whether you choose the living room, dining area or hallway.
Ideal for a home office or living room, this wave-textured small sideboard is pretty as well as pocket-friendly. It's perfect for storing all your stationery, or pop a houseplant on top and fill it with all your photo albums and other treasures.
Dimensions: Height 80.7cm x Width 80cm x Depth 39cm
Looking for a modern yet timeless aesthetic? This small, light wood sideboard is just the ticket – and extremely narrow. It's understated and versatile enough to suit a multitude of interiors, plus the doors feature discreetly integrated handles.
A luxe choice for a sideboard, this is sure to catch the eye with its striking textured front. It has gold-finished handles and legs, plus, it has space-saving sliding doors.
Dimensions: Height 102cm x Width 100cm x Depth 47.4cm
This classic sideboard is crafted from responsibly sourced wood in a country-inspired design, complete with panelled doors and brushed metal handles. The two-door style opens to reveal internal shelving, plus there's a large drawer for extra items.
An airy yet stable sideboard with an industrial look that works just as well in the living room as in the dining area. Use the top to show off your favourite ornaments and the shelves to tuck clutter away.
Dimensions: Height 95cm x Width 111cm x Depth 47cm
Grey furniture is always a good investment, and this small sideboard manages to pack in two cupboards and drawers for extra storage space. At only 80cm wide, it will fit nicely into any nook or alcove.