Credenza vs Buffet Table: What's the Difference?

From choosing tables for your dining room to selecting the right wallpaper, the process of furnishing a home is full of key decisions that alter the look and feel of your environment. However, navigating the sea of choices can sometimes be a challenge, especially with the wide range of modern and Scandinavian furniture options available.

For those looking to add a new furniture piece to their home, especially when creating an ambient dining room, one question often stands out: What's the difference between a credenza and a buffet table?

To elevate your dining room, discover the main difference between these pieces of furniture and ensure that you make the right purchasing decisions for your home's style and functionality needs.

Defining the Terms

While credenza and buffet table are two often interchangeable terms that play important roles in the world of design, there are many key distinctions between the two, from their look to their purpose. So, if you're wondering, "What is a credenza and buffet table?", read on for some key definitions of these modern dining room furniture pieces.

Credenza

A credenza is a versatile piece of furniture typically found in dining rooms, acting as a cupboard that serves buffet meals. These cabinet-like features mean that it can also be used as a storage piece or to display key kitchen items, such as serving dishes.

Typically, a credenza tends to have none-existent or very short legs, which are designed for its historical purpose of serving buffet food. However, whether used in living rooms, home offices or dining rooms, the credenza makes a great addition to any living space with its sleek and functional storage or display uses.

Buffet Table

Unlike a credenza, buffet tables tend to have longer legs, with their main function being to serve food. These items of furniture are generally placed in dining rooms, and can also be used to store things like table linens, serving wear, or dishes, depending on the style.

A buffet table is also ideal for setting out dishes during meals, therefore offering a functional place for self-serving to take place.

While both pieces of furniture make excellent additions to any room, selecting the right one for you depends on the function you require and the general look you're trying to achieve. In the following sections, we'll look at the key features of both items to help you on your search.

Exploring the Key Features

Before making your decision about the best piece of furniture for your home, exploring the key features is beneficial. These features show the functionality of each item and the way it'll fit into the design of your home.

Here are the key features of a credenza and a buffet table:

Functionality

A large benefit of having a credenza is its versatility. These pieces of furniture can be placed in every room, from bedrooms to the dining room. Whether you use it for dining room storage, office furniture, or a place to hold overflow dishes during a meal, it stands strong as a functional item in any room.

The credenza generally comes equipped with shelves, drawers and cabinets, so you can remove clutter or use the open shelving to display your finery.

A buffet table holds the primary function of serving food. This staple piece of dining furniture is perfect for gatherings as it offers an elegant and attractive place to keep dishes, drinks or snacks.

These tables are also extremely useful because they enable easy access for grazing and often have the added bonus of a heat resistant top.

Adaptability and Style

Credenza

Depending on your personal aesthetic, a credenza can be a bold, statement piece or an item that blends in with the rest of your decor. There are many different styles to choose from, all depending on what it is you're actually looking for.

For instance, you may want a minimalistic metal look or a sleek wooden addition to the room. Depending on what room you add it to, you can also make it the focal point by choosing bright colours or adding attractive decor on top. Plus, due to the storage function, you can get creative with the look of the cabinets and drawers.

Buffet table

Although buffet tables are also adaptable to a range of styles and decors, they tend to serve a more practical and minimalist look due to their purpose. With these kinds of tables, simplicity is therefore often the way forward.

By opting for a table that's durable and easy to clean, you'll get the most of out it. However, the range of styles available means you can explore your options and find one that suits your unique aesthetic.

Size

Credenza

In comparison to a buffet table, credenzas tend to be wider in length but shorter in size. As mentioned above, they have none-existent legs or short ones, meaning they're often lower in height too. They prioritise storage and usually have a sturdy, substantial appearance.

Buffet table

A buffet table is longer and more narrow than a credenza, making it an ideal option for serving food at gatherings. If you're placing it near your dining table, make sure to leave plenty of room for easy guest access. Regardless of the piece you choose, furniture experts recommend opting for one that's higher than your dining room table.

Whether your space is craving a functional piece of durable furniture or an adaptable stylish addition, a credenza and buffet table will ensure your needs are met. While they differ in function and general style, it's up to you to decide the one that'll seamlessly slip into your space. 

Choosing the Right One for Your Home

Having looked at both options, you may be wondering which is the right one for you: a buffet table or credenza? Selecting the most suitable piece is vital for your home's interior, as despite their similarities, they do differ in key areas like style and functionality.

If you're wondering about the best one for your home, here are some of the main factors to consider:

• The primary function you need for your specific room
• The dynamics of your room and how the item will fit into them
• The design and interior aesthetic you want to achieve
• The size of the item and where it'll fit into your chosen room
• The style of the piece of furniture
• The long-term needs of your chosen item

For the ultimate sleek and functional credenza, check out our range or explore our blog for more interior inspiration. If you'd like more information on transforming your home, get in touch with our expert team today.