Sideboards are a popular piece of furniture that can be found in almost any home. Instead of buying a brand new sideboard, many people choose the used ones. But why do they come at such a high price? We’re going to tell you why today!
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Why are Sideboards so Expensive?
Because of their history, uses, and design, sideboards are expensive. In the 18th century, they were considered a “status symbol” in England and were mostly used in affluent households. Their designs and styles have evolved over time, and the cost of purchasing a sideboard has significantly decreased.
Five reasons why sideboards are so expensive
Tradition
Due to their high manufacturing costs, sideboards were once considered a luxury item and were only seen in wealthy households. They were made of expensive wood and had decorative elements on them.
After the industrial revolution, ordinary people began to acquire it as well. Vintage sideboards are still more expensive than contemporary designs.
Material
The majority of modern sideboards are made of wood, and high-quality wood furniture can be costly. Many traditional sideboards are made of hardwood oak, contemporary oak, or a combination of the two.
designs in walnut and chip wood. Hardwoods are more difficult to harvest than softwoods.
Sideboards made of walnut hardwood are expensive because they are scarce due to their size limitations.
MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) can be expensive at times because it is sturdy and dense, making it impossible to cut with a table saw.
Quality
Quality is an important consideration in almost everything we buy. The higher the quality of the furniture, the longer it will last.
Most sideboard manufacturers strive to maintain that level of quality, which is why they are so expensive. Some can be used for years and still be resold for a profit.
Timeless Design
Good design endures. This is why you’ll find vintage sideboards proudly displayed in many homes. Some of this high-quality furniture will last for decades because it is well-made and long-lasting.
This is why pieces designed by individuals tend to be more expensive. Sustainable furniture will always be more expensive, and sideboards are meant to be kept for a long time.
Multipurpose
Sideboards can be used for a variety of purposes. It has plenty of storage space thanks to its numerous cabinets and drawers. The top surface of a sideboard is used as a shelf to show off decorative items.
It’s ideal for get-togethers because food platters can be placed on it. They are available anywhere in the house, including the dining room, living room, bedroom, hallway, and even the offices.
Don’t give up because there are low-cost and high-quality sideboards available. All you have to do is strike a balance between price and quality.
You can look in local or online stores. If you still can’t find one, look for second-hand stores, antique malls, and estate auctions in your area. You’ll get the vintage look at a lower cost.
What is “sideboard” mean?
A sideboard is defined as a “table near the side of a room or hall.” The first appearance of sideboards in Britain can be traced back to the 1770s. Robert Adam, a furniture designer, and architect popularized it. However, this was not the origin of the name.
The word’s etymology has yet to be determined. The term was first used in the Middle Ages. It was used as a synonym for the phrase “side table.”
Until the 18th century, it was represented as a stepped structure to showcase valuable eating utensils and had a basic table shape. It’s safe to say that they were called sideboards because they looked a lot like side tables.
They don’t, however, look the same as they did before. Sideboards have evolved and are now compatible with modern furniture.
A buffet is another name for a sideboard. The term “buffet” was derived from the word “sideboard,” which was where food was stored, drinks were obtained, and so on. It also led to the word “buffet” being used to describe a way to serve food instead of a piece of furniture.
How to Select the Best Sideboard?
Size
While it may appear simple to guess how big your sideboard will be in the room, it is best to take measurements first. Take measurements of the other pieces of furniture in your room. Proportionality is essential.
If you’re going to put your sideboard in the dining room, it should be at least as tall as your dining table. The ideal height would be between 30 and 36 inches.
If you have a lot of furniture in your room, it’s best to avoid a large sideboard to avoid making it look crowded.
Dimension
Measure the height, width, and depth of the space where you intend to place your sideboard. Make sure it doesn’t collide with anything else and that there is enough space between the bottom of the window and the top of the sideboard.
Material
Before deciding on a material, consider where your sideboard will be used, how frequently it will be used, what you will be storing, and how long you want it to last.
Solid wood, such as oak, walnut, or teak, is a wise choice because it is not only beautiful but also lasts longer. However, not everyone can afford wood sideboards, so wood veneers are a less expensive option.
They look like real wood but are less expensive. You can also choose modern materials such as stainless steel or glass.
Drawers
Determine how many drawers you will require and whether you will require any at all. In dining rooms and home offices, sideboards with drawers are preferred.
If you only want to use it as a decorative piece to hold vases and bottles, you may not need a lot of space.
Style and Trends
For any piece of furniture, style and trends are essential. You can either match your sideboard to the rest of your room’s furniture or make it stand out.
The safest option is to match the style to your existing furniture. It exudes a refined and professional air. Look for similar finishes, even if they aren’t a perfect match.
What are the material options for a sideboard?
Sideboards are made of three main materials: wood, manufactured boards, and metal. Glass, composites, and plastics are the unusual materials used.
Metal main panels are typically lighter and come in a wide range of coatings and colors. A stone-embodying sideboard is more expensive than others.
Most sideboards are made of solid wood because of their durability, tonal variation, and natural appeal. They last longer, but they are more difficult to maintain and repair.
MDF and chipboards are combined with other materials, such as veneers, to provide a wide range of colors and finishes. Their durability varies according to the quality and manufacturer.
Laminates are also less expensive and can give the appearance of wood and marble. They do, however, deteriorate faster than solid wood.
Sideboard countertops can be made of a variety of materials, including marble. Sideboards use different materials to make them look different, like leather, crystals, stone, and metal inlays to make them look different.
What exactly is the function of a sideboard?
Sideboards are purchased for both decorative and storage purposes. Sideboards can be used in a variety of settings, including dining rooms, living rooms, hallways, and bedrooms.
Sideboards come in a variety of styles and sizes to suit a variety of needs. They can be used to store cutlery and other dining accessories in dining rooms.
They can be used in bedrooms as bedside tables, for clothes, as a lamp table, or as a shelf. A sideboard and two lamps, with your favorite candles in the center, can easily create a cozy atmosphere in your bedroom.
Narrow sideboards can be placed in hallways to store items that are frequently used. When your guests walk in, it will be the first thing they notice.
Is it possible to use a dresser as a sideboard?
Although it will take some effort, you can definitely turn your dresser into a sideboard. You have two options: hiring a professional or doing it yourself. Also, some dressers cannot be used as a sideboard.
It must have a low and wide surface so that the top can be used to store items. Remove the top drawer from a three-drawer dresser to create open shelving and versatility. You’ll need some woodworking tools as well as sandpaper.
If your original hardware is in good condition, you do not need to update it. Simply clean it and re-use it. Give it a new and modern look by painting it to match the rest of the furniture in the room.
Is it okay if I put a sideboard in the living room?
Sideboards are frequently used in the living room. They can completely transform the appearance of your living room. Just make sure to get the proper size for your room and the other furniture in it.
Sideboards serve as cabinets for storing everyday items such as keys, books, and toys. They can also be used to store decorative items such as lamps, clocks, vases, and frames.
Is it possible to mount a television on a sideboard?
Many sideboards are specifically designed to support equipment such as televisions and other media equipment, with speaker compartments and USB outlets. Some are pre-drilled for cabling and power outlets, while others require customization.
Instead of sideboards, these are also known as TV cabinets.
What Should You Keep in a Sideboard?
This is primarily determined by the location of your sideboard. Sideboards can be used to store a wide range of items.
Dining room sideboards store items such as cutlery, glasses, tablecloths, dishes, and trays. You can keep media equipment and books in your living room if you have a sideboard.
The top of the sideboard can be arranged with awards and prized possessions.
Anything goes on your sideboard as long as it is elegant, stylish, and appropriate for your home.