Furniture Types
Credenza
The credenza emerged in Renaissance Italy as a serving table where food was tested (credence = belief/trust) for poison before being served to nobility. This origin explains its traditional placement against a wall and its surface height designed for serving. Today's credenzas have evolved into versatile storage pieces prized for their low, horizontal profile.
Mid-century modern design elevated the credenza to icon status, with designers like Florence Knoll and George Nelson creating sleek, functional pieces that defined an era. Contemporary credenzas continue this legacy, serving as media consoles, dining room storage, office organization, and entryway landing zones.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Low, horizontal profile
- ✓Combination of doors, drawers, and shelves
- ✓Typically 25-35 inches tall
- ✓Length ranges from 48-84 inches
- ✓Designed to sit against a wall
- ✓Surface provides display or serving space
Types & Variations
Sideboard credenza (dining room focus)
Media credenza (TV console with cable management)
Office credenza (behind desk, file storage)
Floating credenza (wall-mounted)
Bar credenza (with bottle storage)
Common Materials
WalnutTeakOakLacquered woodMetal legsMarble tops
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Position a credenza along the main wall of a living or dining room where it can serve as both storage and display surface. In home offices, place it behind or perpendicular to the desk for easy access to files and supplies.
💡 Pro Tip
The ideal credenza height for TV viewing is one where the screen's center sits at or slightly below seated eye level—typically 42 inches from the floor. Choose your credenza height accordingly.
Related Terms
Sideboard
A flat-topped piece of furniture with cupboards and drawers, used for storing dishes and serving food.
Buffet
A dining room sideboard used for serving food and storing dishes, often taller than a credenza.
Console Table
A narrow table designed to be placed against a wall, often in entryways or behind sofas.