Furniture Types

Hutch

A hutch is a piece of furniture combining open shelving above with a cabinet or buffet base below, designed for storing and displaying dishes, collectibles, and decorative items. The open upper section typically features glass doors or open shelves for visibility, while the enclosed lower section hides less attractive storage. Hutches became essential dining room furniture when displaying fine china was a sign of status. Today, they serve similar purposes—showcasing treasured collections while providing practical storage—but have expanded beyond dining rooms into kitchens, living rooms, and home offices where they display everything from books to plants.

Key Characteristics

  • Two-part construction (base + top)
  • Open display shelving above
  • Enclosed cabinet storage below
  • Glass doors common on upper section
  • Various sizes from compact to large
  • Traditional to modern styles available

Types & Variations

China hutch (formal, glass doors)
Kitchen hutch (open shelves, hooks)
Corner hutch (triangular, space-saving)
Step-back hutch (upper section recessed)
Painted hutch (distressed finishes popular)

Placement & Usage Tips

Hutches command wall space and height—place on the most visible wall in the room. In dining rooms, position near the table for easy access to dishes. Consider lighting inside or above to highlight displayed items.

💡 Pro Tip

When styling a hutch, group similar items together and vary heights for visual interest. Leave some negative space rather than filling every shelf—this prevents a cluttered appearance and lets special pieces stand out.