Sideboards, credenzas and buffets are big-ticket purchases that demand some shopping around. But don’t fret: we’re here to help

Like the perfect set of dining chairs, the right sideboard is a balanced marriage between form and function. More than a simple set of shelves, they’re required to neatly store everything needed for a dinner party but, as a bit ticket item that sits in plain sight, have to look good while doing so. So, fans of mid-century, modern and Scandinavian-inspired design that we are – and that we know you are, too – we’ve put together a list of the best spots in town to find sideboards, buffets and credenzas that fit the nordic look. An important note about the vintage shops: if you see something you love, act fast.

Mjölk

Fans of Japandi design are probably already familiar with Mjölk. For those that aren’t, a quick explainer: located in the Junction, Mjölk brings together sought-after Japanese and Scandinavian design and designers – hence, Japandi – making for a showroom stocked with minimalist joinery and accessories. Sideboards from the likes of Thom Fougere, Naoto Fukasawa and Luca Nichetto all recall icons of mid-century design, while authentic reproductions by Finn Juhl are on hand if you want something truly of the era. Read our listing here.

GUFF Furniture

Never short on vintage finds of all sorts, GUFF is a go-to for mid-century and mid-century-style furniture in teak, walnut and other hardwoods. The selection is in constant flux – so it goes with vintage retailers – but when we last looked, GUFF had sideboards and buffets by Dyrlund, Clausen & Son and Henredon, and a healthy selection of unidentified pieces, as well. Read our listing here.

DWR

DWR’s huge selection of licensed icons has long been a draw, but we’re enamoured with the house brand, too. So while you’re browsing sideboards by the likes of Herman Miller and Muuto, spare a moment for DWR’s own wares – especially the Edel and Line credenzas. Read our listing here.

Zig Zag

A Queen East stalwart for mid-century and traditional modern design, Zig Zag is always worth looking at online – at least until we can get out into the world again. Sideboards and credenzas by lesser-known but no-less-loved designers including Peter Løvig Nielsen, Svend Aage Larsen and Svante Skogh were all in stock when we last checked. Read our listing here.

Filter

Should you need thoroughly vetted vintage finds and authentic reproductions, then a quick trip to Hamilton may be in the offing. A quick look yields a tambour-doored sideboard from the ’60s by Bernhard Pederson, a Bernhard Pederson & Son – the new name of the label’s recent relaunch – reproduction in walnut and a Drexel hutch with chrome trim. Read our listing here.

Urban Mode

With labels like Woud, Umage and Normann Copenhagen, Urban Mode is must-visit for those looking for genuine Scandinavian furniture. If you’re after nordic style, but from just a little closer to home, you’ll also find Quebec’s Mobican and Minneapolis-based Blu Dot. Read our listing here.

Phil’z

When browsing Phil’z for a sideboard – whether online or through their front window – stay focused. As soon as you start looking, finds representing different eras, designers and styles will likely catch your eye and, if you’re not careful, the money you set aside for that sideboard. As ever with vintage shops, keep a close watch and act fast. Read our listing here.

Bungalow

Long a destination for budget-friendly vintage furniture (and, in better days, the perfect place to stop into during a Sunday stroll through Kensington Market), you’re as likely to find sideboards and other furniture by Herman Miller, Koefoeds and Vejle as you are deadstock band merch. The real question, though, is why not get both? Read our listing here.

BoConcept

It’s unlikely that shoppers won’t find a sideboard that fits their space at BoConcept. The Danish manufacturer and retailer’s house lines are all available in multiple configurations, materials and price points. For our money, we love the Lugano sideboard with walnut veneer, but if you’re having trouble choosing, consultants are on hand to walk you through your choices. Read our listing here.