The Art of Display – Decorating the Top of Your Gallery Sideboards

Gallery sideboards are really making a statement in British homes due to having practical storage and elegant designs. Beyond this, they also offer superior build quality and the ability to complement a room’s tone, feel, and overall design. But whilst these pieces may be chosen for their looks, quality, and storage, we know the decorations on top can help bring them to life even more, whether that means placing elegant vases, rustic lamps, or stacks of books.

With just a little creativity, the top of your Gallery sideboards can be transformed from simple, classy furniture items into beautiful and personal displays that not only look exceptional but also heavily reflect your style and warmly welcome guests into your home. Let’s take a closer look at some of the decorative items that can work incredibly well and some design principles you may want to consider.

Decorate Your Gallery Sideboards with These Items

When styling gallery sideboards, the right decorative pieces can complement their designs, change the mood of a room entirely, or add a touch of personal expression. Here are some choices you should consider:

Vases, Plant Pots, and Fresh Flowers

Vases or plant pots, filled with fresh flowers or simple greenery, can instantly add vibrancy and a natural touch to sideboard displays. Tall vases can stand out as centrepieces, whilst smaller pots look great when grouped together. There are also many different flowers and plants to choose from, coming in a variety of colours, giving you the opportunity to refresh your sideboards to match each season.

Table Lamps

Table lamps on your sideboard can provide both useful lighting and act as a decorative element, helping create cosy atmospheres in the evenings and blend in with surrounding décor. You can even choose lamps with interesting bases or colourful shades for additional style.

Ornaments and Sculptures

Ornaments and small sculptures are excellent for introducing texture and personality. Whether you prefer metal, glass, or ceramic, these items can be used to add visual interest and break up flat surfaces. A single striking piece or a carefully chosen collection can give your gallery sideboard a very unique look.

Books and Decorative Trays

Stacked books may bring a sense of comfort and character, whilst decorative trays can offer style and function. They help keep smaller items, like keys or jewellery, in a safe place, making them easier to find.

5.     Candles and Diffusers

Candles and diffusers offer a way to introduce scents that can make rooms inviting and relaxing. Grouping candles in varying heights can create a calming, warm effect, and diffusers can keep the room smelling fresh. 

Art and Photographs

Framed art and personal photographs provide the finishing touch to your sideboard display. Leaning artwork or placing photos in stylish frames helps make the arrangement feel more personal, setting the mood for the rest of the room.

Styling Principles for Sideboard Displays

When it comes to choosing décor for your gallery sideboards, you should firstly think about scale and proportion. Taller items, like vases or lamps, can go at one end, whilst shorter accessories or small stacks of books can be placed nearer the centre to help create balance. Next, consider textures and layers. For example, you can complement metal accents with leafy plants or pair glass lamps with wooden surfaces. This variety can create visual depth and keep displays from looking flat or cluttered. Even just a few carefully chosen objects can make a big impact if they’re arranged thoughtfully and with purpose. Finally, make it personal. A sideboard top is a brilliant spot for framed photos, favourite ornaments, or a rotating display of flowers. Choose pieces that mean something to you, and don’t be afraid to change them as the seasons and your tastes evolve.

Final Thoughts

As well as offering simple storage solutions, Gallery sideboards also help define the style and atmosphere of your home. By selecting a few well-chosen decorative pieces and arranging them with care, you can turn one into a real focal point. Whether you prefer a clean, minimalist look or a more layered, personal display, following a few simple styling principles and referring back to some of our examples will help you achieve a look that’s both inviting and unique to you.

At Shackletons, we have a number of Gallery sideboards to choose from, with our collection having a variety of finishes and designs, so you can easily find one that suits your décor and lifestyle. Gallery sideboards are well known for their sturdy builds, superb looks, and their ability to work in different rooms, making them a smart investment for UK homes. Plus, if you need advice or inspiration, our friendly team is happy to assist you in finding the right piece. Why not browse through our collection of Gallery sideboards today and discover how simple it is to bring both elegance and organisation to your home? If you need any assistance, please call 01200 444488.