A sideboard offers storage space and a surface, but without a system, the surface can quickly appear cluttered or restless. Trays provide a solution here: they group small items together, visually structure the surface, and can be lifted when needed for cleaning or rearranging. At the same time, high-quality trays made of marble, leather, or metal add their own design accents. The challenge is to choose the format, material, and number in such a way that order is created without the surface appearing rigid or overloaded.
Dimensions and Proportions: How much space a tray may occupy
As a rule of thumb: A single tray should not take up more than one third of the sideboard's width, so that there is room on the left and right for other objects or empty space. For a 180 cm wide sideboard, a tray of 50 to 60 cm in length is therefore suitable; for a 150 cm width, 45 to 50 cm accordingly. If you work with two trays, they may together fill about half of the total width, with at least 15 cm distance between them to avoid visual narrowness.
The depth of the tray depends on the depth of the sideboard: For furniture 45 cm deep, trays of 30 to 35 cm depth are practical, leaving 10 to 15 cm behind for taller objects such as vases or lamps. Flat trays with a rim height of 2 to 3 cm are suitable for decorative arrangements, while models with a 5 to 7 cm high rim securely hold glasses or bottles.
Material Selection: Which surfaces harmonize with each other
The materiality of the tray should either pick up on the sideboard or create a deliberate contrast. Polished brass or matte stainless steel trays, which reflect light with their metallic sheen, go well with dark walnut or oak wood. Marble trays in white, grey, or black blend with sideboards with high-gloss fronts or stone tops, while leather in cognac or dark brown emphasizes warmer wood tones.
Avoid combining more than three different materials on one surface. A brass tray, a glass vase, and a ceramic plate form a harmonious trio; if a fourth material is added, the composition often appears restless. Surface finish also plays a role: high-gloss polished metal goes better with smooth glass, brushed or patinated surfaces harmonize with matte porcelain or natural stone.
Arrangement and Grouping: How trays structure the surface
Trays function as visual anchors that group related items. On a rectangular tray, for example, a carafe, glasses, and a small bowl for coasters can be grouped to create a serving station. A round tray is suitable for symmetrical arrangements of three or five objects of different heights, such as a central vase flanked by two low tea lights.
Work with an odd number: a single large tray appears calm and clear, three smaller trays of staggered sizes create rhythm. Two trays of the same size next to each other can appear static, unless they differ significantly in material or color. Leave at least 8 to 10 cm of space between the tray and the sideboard edge so that the composition does not appear cramped and you can easily reach behind it.
Function and Content: What belongs on a tray
Trays on the sideboard serve either for decoration or for practical provision. A serving tray holds drinks, glasses, and napkins for guests, a flat box tray holds keys, watches, or jewelry. Decorative trays carry seasonal arrangements of candles, small sculptures, or books.
Ensure that the items on the tray vary in height and volume: a shallow bowl, a medium-height vase, and a narrow tall object create a balanced staggering. Do not fill the tray completely, but leave about one third of the surface empty. This not only makes it easier to lift but also gives the composition lightness.
Care and Handling: So that trays remain attractive long-term
Marble trays do not tolerate acidic liquids such as wine or lemon juice, which can leave stains. Wipe spilled liquid immediately with a damp cloth and use clear water without additives for regular cleaning. Brass trays develop a patina over time; if you prefer the original shine, polish them every few months with a special brass cleaner.
Leather trays should not be exposed to direct sunlight, as the material may fade. Remove dust with a soft, dry cloth, and light dirt with a slightly damp cloth. Glass trays clearly show fingerprints; a microfiber cloth and glass cleaner keep them clear. Regularly check the fastening of trays with handles, especially if you move them frequently.
| Sideboard Width | Recommended Tray Length (single) | Recommended Tray Length (two pieces) | Minimum Distance to Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| 120 cm | 35 to 40 cm | 25 to 30 cm each | 8 cm |
| 150 cm | 45 to 50 cm | 30 to 35 cm each | 10 cm |
| 180 cm | 50 to 60 cm | 35 to 40 cm each | 10 cm |
| 200 cm | 60 to 70 cm | 40 to 45 cm each | 12 cm |
Common Mistakes in Tray Decoration
A common mistake is to gather too many small items on one tray. More than five objects quickly appear cluttered, even if each is appealing on its own. Limit yourself to three to five pieces of varying heights and leave spaces in between.
It is equally problematic to place trays too close to the sideboard edge. If there is no space, the tray is difficult to grasp and the composition appears cramped. At least 8 cm of space to the edge and to neighboring objects ensures visual generosity.
- Choose tray size and number to match the sideboard width, not solely based on personal preference.
- Combine a maximum of three materials on one surface to avoid restlessness.
- Work with an odd number of objects on the tray: three or five pieces instead of two or four.
- Leave about one third of the tray surface empty so that the composition can breathe.
- Vary the height of the objects: flat, medium, tall creates tension without chaos.
- Clean trays regularly according to their material to control stains and patina.
You can find suitable pieces under Serving Accessories and Boxes. Information on how the pieces are constructed, available dimensions, and delivery times can be found on Eichholtz Bar Carts and Serving Trolleys and Eichholtz Boxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many trays should one use on a sideboard?
A single tray is often sufficient to create clear order. Two trays are suitable for sideboards from 150 cm width, provided there is at least 15 cm distance between them. Three trays are only an option for very wide furniture from 200 cm and should then vary in size or material to avoid a monotonous impression. More than three trays usually overwhelm the surface.
Which rim height is suitable for which purpose?
Flat trays with a 2 to 3 cm rim are primarily for decoration and hold objects that do not roll or tip. For glasses, bottles, or candles, rims of 5 to 7 cm are recommended to prevent slipping. Very high rims from 8 cm look more like bowls and are suitable for loose small items such as keys or remote controls, less for representative arrangements.
Can trays also be used on other furniture?
Trays work wherever several small items need to be grouped: on coffee tables, chests of drawers, side tables, or in open shelves. The same rules of proportion apply: the tray should not take up more than one third of the available surface and leave space all around to edges and other objects. On low coffee tables, flat trays appear more harmonious than tall models.
How do you combine trays with other decorative objects on the sideboard?
Trays form their own unit and should not compete with too many other objects. Next to a large tray, a table lamp and a vase can be placed, nothing more. With two trays, limit yourself to one or two additional objects between or next to them. Make sure that the heights are staggered: the tray remains low, while the lamp or vase extends above it.