The Personality Of A Credenza
The credenza that first caught my eye was on my friend Sheila’s post, A Credenza Mystery in which she tracked down the history of Don Draper’s credenza used in his new office in Season Four. I love the detail! It is such a beautiful piece of furniture:
You do not hear the word ‘credenza’ used often anymore. What is the definition of a credenza? The common description of a credenza is a long, flat topped storage unit that has been in existence since the 19th century.Credenzas can have drawers, cabinets or both and are made from a variety of woods, metal and even plastic. When I hear the word credenza this is what I always imagine:
sourceBut now they have so many names for this versatile piece of furniture:
SideboardSofa tableTV consoleMedia consoleChestBuffet
Their sizes vary accordingly to what the piece is ‘named.’ For example, 74 ¾”W x 18”D x 26 ½”H is a standard size of a credenza, where as a buffet’s standard size is 31" H x 53" W x 18" D. I think that the best attribute of the credenza is its versatility to be used in so many ways. Originally used just in the dining room, credenzas are now being used in all rooms of the home; from the living room as a television stand to an office used as a desk:
And they are even being used in the bathroom!:
While researching for this post, I went online to shop for a credenza to see how available they are and also to see the prices. I found none at Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware had a lot of sideboards but no credenzas. Ikea also had a few sideboards for sale but only one had the look I like:
Searching online Target, credenza came up as entertainment units:
Crate and Barrel was my favorite I found:
But I really did not find that personality piece I was looking for. One of the reasons I love a ‘credenza’ is for their detailed look. I am sure you could find a beautiful one if you wanted to pay in the thousands for one. Or maybe if you are lucky, you can come across one at an estate sale or auction. I googled ‘1960 credenza' and look at the images:
These are the credenza pieces I love! Such personality!
Do you like them? Do you have an ‘older’ version of a credenza? I think they would look great in any style room. Great for storage and another tabletop to style. Fabulous!
If you need finding the perfect piece for your home, contact me today.