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Buffet for dining room: 12 inspirations and tips for choosing

Transform your dining room with an elegant and functional buffet. Discover tips for choosing the right model for your space.

By CASACOR Publisher

Submitted at Mar 4, 2025, 1:24 PM

10 min de leitura
Project of Studio 021 Architecture.

Project of Studio 021 Architecture. (Fotos; Juliano Colodeti, do MCA Estúdio / Produção: Andrea Falchi e Rennan Schalabrin)

The buffet for the dining room is an essential piece of furniture, capable of transforming the projects in terms of elegance and functionality. It serves both to store utensils, such as dishes and cutlery, and to display decorative objects. The proper use of the buffet can optimize space, offering a sophisticated and practical aesthetic. Versatility is one of the most remarkable characteristics that makes the buffet a beloved element for dining rooms that seek practicality and an inviting look.
Rented apartment becomes pied-à-terre in front of the sea at Ipanema. Project by PKB Architecture. In the photo, dining room with pendants and mirrors.

Projeto de PKB Arquitetura (Foto: Denilson Machado / Produção: Andrea Brito Velho/CASACOR)

Whether in a more classic style or a contemporary approach, the buffet for the dining room can be used in the best possible way and bring benefits that go beyond simple organization of your belongings. Discover below how to choose and use this piece of furniture efficiently.

Difference between sideboard and buffet


Thaís Caixeta - Loft Breton. Project of CASACOR Brasília 2023.

Thaís Caixeta - Loft Breton. Project of CASACOR Brasília 2023. (Edgard Cesar/CASACOR)

There are many questions about using a sideboard and buffet, but understanding the differences between these two pieces is the first step to making the right choice for your dining room. While the buffet appears more robust, with greater depth and storage capacity, the sideboard can be described as a lighter and more delicate piece of furniture. The sideboard has a narrower and simpler structure, so it is used to support decorative items and serve as support on special occasions, such as snacks and drinks during a gathering.
The apartment has a view of four postcards from Rio de Janeiro. Project by João Panaggio. In the photo, dining room with sideboard.

Project by João Panaggio. (Photo: Denilson Machado, from MCA Estúdio / Visual Production: Aldi Flosi/Disclosure)

On the other hand, the buffet serves as a support to group dinnerware, tea, coffee, among other set table items in an organized and decorative way. The choice between one or the other essentially depends on the practical needs of the space and personal taste. The buffet, having doors and drawers, is ideal for those who need more significant storage. The sideboard, on the other hand, stands out as an option for those who value aesthetics more and want a simpler piece for everyday use.

How to use the buffet in the dining room


Ana Moura Ana Higino Architecture - In Embrace. Project of CASACOR Pernambuco 2023.

Ana Moura Ana Higino Architecture - In Embrace. Project of CASACOR Pernambuco 2023. (Denilson Machado/CASACOR)

The buffet in the dining room can become the focal point of the projects. Position it against a highlighted wall to create a visually pleasing aesthetic. Use it to store dishes, glasses, and cutlery, making access easier during meals. On the top, you can decorate with flower arrangements, frames or mirrors to add personality and charm to the space. Consider the color and material of the buffet to harmonize with the rest of the furniture and the decoration already existing in the room.
Mandril Architecture - Kitchen Torno. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2024.

Mandril Architecture - Kitchen Torno. Project of CASACOR São Paulo 2024. (Israel Gollino/CASACOR)

It should allow easy access to the internal content without obstructing circulation, ensuring that all stored items can be reached with no major effort during meals. Incorporating spot lighting, such as wall sconces or upward-facing lamps, can help highlight the buffet, creating a cozy visual effect. This feature, combined with a careful selection of colors and materials, can completely transform the experience of being in the dining room.
José Ribeiro - Casa Jóya. Project of CASACOR Piauí 2024.

José Ribeiro - Casa Jóya. Projeto da CASACOR Piauí 2024. (Victor Eleuterio/CASACOR)

In this perspective, the buffet becomes not just a functional element, but also an opportunity to express personal styles and create a project that invites coexistence and contemplation.

How to choose the buffet for the dining room


Choosing the ideal buffet involves considering the size of the projects, the need for storage, and the desired decorative style. Assess the available space to avoid a disproportionate piece of furniture. A buffet with straight lines and neutral colors, such as white or gray, can adapt to various decorations. Shades of wood or vibrant colors create a differential, giving personality to the projects. Also consider the materials, looking for quality and durability to ensure a solid and functional investment.
Víctor Gamarra - Loft of the Pedestrian. Project of CASACOR Peru 2024.

Víctor Gamarra - Loft del Peatón. Projeto da CASACOR Peru 2024. (Marcel Suurmond/CASACOR)

Choosing the right buffet for your dining room involves more than simply finding a piece that fits the available space. It is crucial that the furniture complements the existing decor and meets the functional needs of the house.

Choose a location that does not hinder circulation


First of all, assess the area where the buffet will be placed, ensuring there is space to open doors and drawers without obstructions and keeping it away from high traffic areas to avoid accidents.
Colorful walls and biophilia give life to the apartment signed by Paula Neder. In the photo, dining room with tile panel.

Project by Paula Neder. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

Keep colors and style balanced with the rest of the decor


The style of the buffet should harmonize with the already established décor in the dining room. For a more classic environment, furniture with wooden finishes and sculpted details can be great choices. For contemporary spaces, cleaner lines and materials such as glass and metal are preferred, offering a lighter and more modern look. Regardless of style, the quality of the material and finish should be a priority, as the buffet is a long-term investment.
Integration prioritizes the view of the carioca nature in this apartment. Project by Ketlein Amorin. In the photo, dining room with sideboard, pendant light and plant.

Project by Ketlein Amorin. (André Nazareth/CASACOR)

Think about which items should be stored in the buffet


Besides the aesthetics, functionality should not be overlooked. Buffets with drawers and adjustable shelves offer flexible storage, adapting to different needs that arise in daily life. Also consider the possibility of choosing a model with an extendable or sliding top, providing even more versatility. This flexibility is an attractive feature and can be decisive when choosing the ideal model.
Contemporary, industrial, and retro styles create a laid-back 180 m² apartment. Project Escala Arquitetura. In the photo, living and dining room with a brick wall, pictures, and a rug.

Projeto Escala Arquitetura. (Fotos: André Nazareth / Produção: Andrea Falchi/CASACOR)

Choose a color that is easy to combine


Finally, the choice of the buffet's color deserves special attention. Neutral colors, such as white, black, or shades of wood, easily integrate into various color palettes, allowing for future changes in decoration without the buffet becoming an impediment. [caption id="attachment_176318" align="alignnone" width="7500"]The pool seems to extend the sea in this house signed by David Bastos. In the photo, dining room with a fiber ceiling, pictures, and garden.[/caption> CASACOR Publisher is a creator of exclusive content, developed by the team of Technology at CASACOR based on the knowledge base of casacor.com.br. This text was edited by Yeska Coelho.