Term for the Day: Sideboard

A late Victorian English sideboard.

Used in dining rooms, a sideboard—also called a server—is a waist-level piece of furniture consisting of cabinets and usually, one or more drawers. The sideboards use is predominantly for the serving of food, and for the display and storage of china, silver and crystal. Sideboards are typically constructed of fine woods, but can have a top surface of stone. Modern decorators have begun to incorporate sideboards into the design of rooms other than the dining room. The shape and size of a sideboard makes for a perfect display area in any room. Antique sideboards are highly sought after and can be found in a variety of styles and conditions. If you’re looking for an attractive and versatile piece of furniture, a sideboard might be just the answer.