a vintage sideboard styled with traditional decor
Thrifted Finds

How to Style a Sideboard

I recently scored two vintage sideboards on Facebook Marketplace, and they’ve quickly become some of my favorite pieces in our home. While sideboards and buffets are traditionally used in dining rooms, I love using them throughout the house to add character, storage, and a collected, timeless feel.

If you love mixing vintage furniture with collected decor, you may also enjoy my guide on thrift store art—what to look for and how to make it work in your home.

How I Styled a Vintage Sideboard in Our Living Room

The first sideboard I found is a stunning vintage piece that instantly brought warmth and charm to our large white living room. The previous owners had it in their family for over 30 years, and before that, it came from an antique shop. I love knowing this piece has lived many lives. It has a few scratches, but I think those imperfections only add to its character. Since it was structurally sound, I left it as-is and focused on styling.

a vintage sideboard styled with traditional decor

To anchor the sideboard, I hung a large arched mirror above it, which helps reflect light and visually ground the piece. I added dried boxwood trees for softness and greenery, then layered in pattern with a Delft lamp and a classic ginger jar. To add height and dimension, I stacked a few books (pro tip: removing book jackets instantly makes a space feel more elevated). I finished the look with thrifted brass accents, including candlesticks and a vintage duck decoy.

Not only does this sideboard make a statement, but it also adds much-needed storage to our living room.

Get the look

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Updating and Styling a Second Facebook Marketplace Sideboard

The second sideboard was another Marketplace find, but it arrived painted in a bright blue chalk paint. My husband sanded down the top to reveal the beautiful solid wood underneath and stained it in Early American. He then painted the base black to give it a more classic, high-contrast look.

I refreshed the hardware using Rub ‘n Buff in “European gold” which ties in beautifully with the other warm metal finishes in our dining room. For styling, I leaned into a mix of greenery, blue-and-white pottery, and brass accents. The true showstopper is an ornate thrifted mirror I found for just $5.99. The beveled glass and weight immediately gave away its quality.

The black sideboard pops against the lighter walls, while the wood top adds warmth and depth.


Sideboards are one of my favorite furniture pieces to hunt for on Facebook Marketplace. Many are priced under $200, and it’s increasingly rare to find solid wood furniture at that price point today. Whether used in a dining room, living room, or entryway, a vintage sideboard brings both function and timeless character to a home.

Do you have a vintage sideboard? I’d love to hear how you’ve styled yours. Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram so I can see your space.

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