Laura Ashley Sideboard

Navigating the World of Classic British Design in Today’s Home

When I first stepped into my own home, a quaint Victorian terrace with more charm than square footage, I knew immediately that each piece of furniture would need to earn its place. Not just functionally, but aesthetically. The sideboard—that quintessential piece that bridges dining and living spaces—became my first significant furniture quest. After months of research, deliberation, and a slightly embarrassing Pinterest board obsession, I found myself irresistibly drawn to Laura Ashley sideboards. What began as curiosity evolved into appreciation, and eventually, a full-blown love affair with these timeless pieces.

The right sideboard doesn’t just store your belongings—it tells your story. And Laura Ashley sideboards, with their distinctive blend of British heritage and contemporary practicality, have been telling beautiful stories in homes across the world for decades.

If you’re considering bringing one of these stunning pieces into your home, you’re in the right place. I’ve spent countless hours researching, viewing, and living with Laura Ashley furniture, and I’m delighted to share everything I’ve learned about selecting the perfect Laura Ashley sideboard for your space.

The Laura Ashley Legacy: More Than Just a Furniture Brand

Before diving into the specifics of their sideboards, it’s worth understanding what makes Laura Ashley unique in the crowded furniture marketplace. Founded in 1953 by Laura and Bernard Ashley, this quintessentially British brand began as a modest kitchen-table business producing printed scarves and napkins. What started as a small fabric printing endeavor eventually blossomed into one of the most recognizable home furnishing brands in the world.

The Laura Ashley aesthetic is immediately identifiable—romantic yet practical, traditional yet fresh, and always exquisitely crafted. The brand’s furniture division emerged as a natural extension of their fabric business, allowing customers to create cohesive living environments that embodied the Laura Ashley lifestyle.

While the company has evolved significantly since its humble beginnings (including changes in ownership and direction), the core values of quality craftsmanship and timeless design remain steadfast. Their sideboards, in particular, exemplify these values, offering storage solutions that enhance rather than merely occupy your living space.

Where to Find Laura Ashley Sideboards in 2025

The retail landscape for Laura Ashley has transformed considerably in recent years. Following restructuring in 2020, the brand adopted a different distribution model. Today, finding Laura Ashley sideboards requires knowing where to look.

The primary channels for purchasing new Laura Ashley sideboards include:

1. Official Laura Ashley Website and Partner Retailers: The brand’s online presence remains robust, with an extensive collection of furniture available through their official website. Additionally, they’ve established partnerships with select retailers who carry their furniture lines.
2. Department Stores: Several upscale department stores maintain dedicated Laura Ashley sections, offering both current collections and occasional exclusive pieces. Stores like John Lewis in the UK and similar premium retailers internationally often showcase Laura Ashley furniture.
3. Specialized Furniture Retailers: Many independent and chain furniture stores carry Laura Ashley lines, particularly those catering to classic and traditional tastes.
4. Second-hand and Vintage Markets: Given the enduring quality of Laura Ashley furniture, the second-hand market is thriving. Online marketplaces, antique dealers, and vintage furniture shops frequently offer well-maintained Laura Ashley sideboards from previous collections.

I personally found my Garrat Honey sideboard through a specialized furniture retailer that carried the Laura Ashley collection. The advantage was being able to see the piece in person, assess the wood finish up close, and really get a feel for the dimensions in a staged setting. That said, I’ve also purchased smaller Laura Ashley pieces online with complete satisfaction.

When purchasing online, I strongly recommend carefully reviewing the return policy and delivery options. These are substantial pieces of furniture, and you’ll want assurance that any issues can be addressed without excessive hassle or expense.

Popular Laura Ashley Sideboard Designs: From Classic to Contemporary

Laura Ashley sideboards span a wide spectrum of designs, united by the brand’s commitment to quality and aesthetic harmony. Over my years of obsessing over (I mean, researching) their collections, I’ve identified several standout designs that have proven particularly popular:

The Garrat Collection

The Garrat range represents Laura Ashley’s interpretation of classic country furniture. Available in multiple wood finishes including the warm honey-toned oak and deeper chestnut, these sideboards feature slightly distressed finishes that impart character and a lived-in feel. The collection typically includes:

• Garrat Large Sideboard: A substantial piece with multiple drawers and cupboards
• Garrat Small Sideboard: A more compact version perfect for smaller dining areas
• Garrat Chestnut Console Table: Not technically a sideboard but offers similar functionality in narrower spaces

My own Garrat Honey sideboard has been the cornerstone of my dining area for five years now. What I particularly appreciate is how the slightly rustic finish actually improves with age—each small dent or mark adds to its character rather than detracting from its beauty.

The Henshaw Collection

For those who prefer a more formal, traditional aesthetic, the Henshaw collection offers elegantly proportioned sideboards with refined detailing. These pieces typically feature:

• Subtle curved fronts that soften the overall appearance
• Decorative hardware that complements the classic lines
• Slightly elevated legs that create a sense of lightness despite the substantial construction

The Henshaw Dark Oak Sideboard, in particular, has been a perennial favorite among Laura Ashley enthusiasts. Its deep, rich finish works beautifully in both traditional dining rooms and as a statement piece in more contemporary settings.

The Provencal Collection

Drawing inspiration from French country furniture, the Provencal collection offers sideboards with a romantic, slightly ornate aesthetic. Characterized by:

• Elegantly curved lines and occasional scrollwork
• Usually available in painted finishes, most commonly white or ivory
• Distressed detailing that suggests an heirloom quality

These pieces work particularly well in cottagecore-inspired interiors or spaces where you’re aiming for a softer, more feminine aesthetic. I’ve seen the Provencal White 2 Door Sideboard transform an otherwise unremarkable dining area into a space worthy of a glossy magazine spread.

Contemporary Designs

While Laura Ashley is often associated with traditional aesthetics, their more recent collections have embraced cleaner, more contemporary lines without abandoning the quality and attention to detail for which the brand is known. Modern Laura Ashley sideboards might feature:

• Minimalist hardware or push-open mechanisms
• Mixed material construction, such as wood with metal accents
• More geometric forms with less ornamental detailing

These pieces are particularly suitable for urban dwellings or spaces where you’re looking to incorporate traditional craftsmanship without an overtly traditional appearance.

Understanding Laura Ashley Sideboard Pricing

Let’s address the elephant in the room—Laura Ashley sideboards represent a significant investment. New pieces typically range from $800 for smaller, simpler designs to $2,500 or more for larger, more elaborate models. This pricing reflects several factors:

1. Quality of Materials: Laura Ashley consistently uses solid woods and high-grade veneers rather than less expensive alternatives.
2. Construction Methods: Many pieces incorporate traditional joinery techniques that require skilled craftsmanship.
3. Design Heritage: You’re paying not just for a functional piece of furniture but for decades of design expertise.
4. Longevity: These are pieces designed to last generations, not just seasons.

That said, there are several ways to make a Laura Ashley sideboard more accessible:

• Seasonal Sales: Laura Ashley typically holds sales during traditional retail periods (post-Christmas, end of summer, etc.) where discounts of 20-30% are not uncommon.
• Floor Models: Retailers occasionally offer discounts on display models, particularly when transitioning to new collections.
• Second-hand Market: As mentioned earlier, the quality construction means that pre-owned Laura Ashley sideboards often remain in excellent condition. I’ve seen beautiful pieces at 40-60% of their original retail price.
• Outlet Stores: In some regions, Laura Ashley operates outlet stores where discontinued or slightly imperfect items can be found at reduced prices.

When I purchased my sideboard, I waited for the end-of-summer sale and saved approximately 25%. The four-month wait tested my patience, but the saving was substantial enough to justify the delay—and allowed me to upgrade to a slightly larger model than I had initially budgeted for.

Size Considerations: Finding the Perfect Dimensions

Laura Ashley sideboards come in various sizes to accommodate different spaces and storage needs. The key dimensions to consider include:

Width

• Small Sideboards: Typically 80-100cm wide, suitable for apartments or smaller dining areas
• Medium Sideboards: Around 120-140cm, the most versatile size for average rooms
• Large Sideboards: 160-200cm, making a substantial statement in larger spaces

Height

Most Laura Ashley sideboards stand between 75-90cm high—tall enough to provide convenient serving space but low enough not to dominate the room visually.

Depth

Typically between 40-50cm deep, offering sufficient storage without protruding too far into the room. For narrower spaces, console tables (usually 30-35cm deep) can sometimes serve as alternative sideboards.

When selecting the right size, I recommend:

1. Measuring your space carefully, including any architectural features that might impact placement
2. Marking out the footprint with masking tape on the floor to visualize the piece in situ
3. Considering clearance for doors, drawers, and general movement around the piece
4. Thinking about proportion relative to other furniture in the room

I initially wanted the larger Garrat sideboard but realized it would overwhelm my modest dining area. Scaling down to the medium size created a much more harmonious relationship with my dining table and allowed for comfortable circulation space around both pieces.

Materials and Craftsmanship: What Makes Laura Ashley Sideboards Special

Laura Ashley’s reputation for quality is well-deserved, particularly when it comes to their furniture. Their sideboards typically feature:

Woods and Veneers

Most Laura Ashley sideboards utilize either solid hardwoods or high-quality veneers over engineered wood cores. Common woods include:

• Oak: Used extensively throughout their collections, prized for its durability and distinctive grain
• Cherry: Appearing in some of their more formal pieces, developing a beautiful patina over time
• Mahogany: Less common but featured in some traditional designs
• Pine: Occasionally used in more casual, country-inspired pieces

While purists might insist on solid wood construction throughout, the reality is that the use of veneers over stable cores often results in furniture that’s less prone to warping or cracking—particularly important in modern homes with central heating and variable humidity levels.

Finishes

Laura Ashley offers various finishes across their sideboard collections:

• Natural: Clear finishes that showcase the wood’s natural color and grain
• Stained: Enhanced colors that deepen or alter the wood’s natural appearance
• Painted: Particularly popular in their French-inspired collections
• Distressed: Light distressing that suggests age and character
• Two-tone: Combining painted and wood-finish elements

I was initially hesitant about the distressed finish on my Garrat sideboard, fearing it might look artificially aged. In reality, the distressing is subtle and tasteful, creating a lived-in quality that makes the piece feel immediately at home rather than showroom-new.

Construction Features

Quality details to look for in Laura Ashley sideboards include:

• Dovetail joints on drawers, indicating superior construction
• Smooth-running drawer mechanisms with proper stops
• Solid backs rather than flimsy cardboard or hardboard
• Adjustable shelving within cabinets for versatility
• Quality hardware that feels substantial in the hand

These details might not be immediately apparent but make a tremendous difference in daily use and long-term satisfaction.

Color Options and Wood Finishes: Finding Your Perfect Match

Laura Ashley sideboards come in a range of colors and finishes to complement various interior styles:

Wood Finishes

• Light Oak/Honey: Warm, versatile finishes that work well in both traditional and contemporary settings
• Dark Oak/Walnut: Rich, dramatic finishes that create a more formal impression
• Cherry: Reddish tones that develop character over time
• Natural Pine: Lighter, more casual finish popular in country-style interiors

Painted Finishes

• White/Ivory: Classic choices that brighten spaces and complement almost any color scheme
• Grey: Contemporary neutral that works beautifully in modern settings
• Duck Egg Blue: A signature Laura Ashley color, offering subtle color that reads almost as a neutral
• Sage Green: Another heritage color that adds gentle warmth
• Black: Less common but striking in the right context

Some collections also offer two-tone finishes, typically combining painted frames with wood-finish tops, creating visual interest while maintaining versatility.

When selecting a finish, consider:

1. Your existing furniture: While perfect matching isn’t necessary, complementary tones create harmony
2. The mood you wish to create: Darker finishes tend to feel more formal, lighter more casual
3. Light levels in your room: Darker pieces can feel imposing in poorly lit spaces
4. Maintenance requirements: Lighter finishes typically show dust less obviously but may show marks more readily

My honey-toned Garrat sideboard strikes a beautiful balance—warm enough to feel inviting but light enough to prevent my modestly sized dining area from feeling cramped.

Storage Configuration: Drawers, Cabinets, and Functionality

The internal configuration of a sideboard significantly impacts its utility. Laura Ashley offers various arrangements to suit different storage needs:

Common Configurations

• Equal cabinets with center drawers: The classic arrangement, offering balanced storage for various items
• Asymmetrical designs: With different sized cabinets and drawer arrangements for visual interest
• All-drawer designs: Less common but excellent for storing smaller items
• Display options: Some models include glass-fronted sections or open shelving

The configuration you choose should reflect your specific storage needs:

• Large cabinets are ideal for bulkier items like serving platters, vases, or infrequently used appliances
• Drawers work best for cutlery, linens, or smaller items that benefit from compartmentalization
• Adjustable shelving provides flexibility as your storage needs evolve

My Garrat sideboard features two equal-sized cabinets with three drawers in the center—a configuration I’ve found incredibly versatile. The cabinets house my larger serving pieces and occasionally used appliances, while the drawers contain table linens, special occasion cutlery, and those odd items that never seem to find a proper home elsewhere.

Some Laura Ashley sideboards also include special features like:

• Wine racks incorporated into the design
• Silver drawer liners in higher-end models
• Interior lighting in display sections
• Felt-lined drawers to protect delicate items

These details may seem minor but can significantly enhance the functionality of your sideboard.

Laura Ashley Sideboards in Modern Interiors: Mixing Old and New

One question I frequently encounter is whether Laura Ashley sideboards—with their traditional pedigree—can work in contemporary interiors. The answer is a resounding yes, with some thoughtful consideration.

The key to incorporating Laura Ashley sideboards into modern spaces lies in creating intentional contrast rather than trying to disguise the piece’s heritage:

• Pair traditional sideboards with modern art above to create a compelling juxtaposition
• Use contemporary lighting like minimalist sconces or statement pendants to update the vignette
• Style the surface with a mix of old and new objects rather than purely traditional accessories
• Consider modern chairs if using the sideboard in a dining context

I’ve seen stunning examples of Laura Ashley’s most traditional sideboards working beautifully in otherwise thoroughly modern apartments—the contrast between old and new creating a much more interesting narrative than spaces where everything belongs to the same design era.

For those who prefer a more cohesive look, Laura Ashley’s contemporary collections offer cleaner lines while maintaining the quality associated with the brand. These pieces integrate more seamlessly into modern interiors while still providing a touch of warmth that purely modernist furniture sometimes lacks.

Vintage and Antique Laura Ashley Sideboards: A Treasure Hunt

While new Laura Ashley sideboards offer the security of warranties and perfect condition, there’s something special about hunting for vintage pieces from the brand’s earlier collections. The second-hand market for Laura Ashley furniture is active and rewarding for patient searchers.

Vintage Laura Ashley sideboards (generally considered those 20+ years old) offer several advantages:

1. Unique designs that may no longer be in production
2. Potential value appreciation for particularly desirable pieces
3. Established patina that only comes with age and use
4. Sustainability benefits of reusing existing furniture
5. Often lower price points than comparable new pieces

When shopping for vintage Laura Ashley sideboards, look for:

• Original hardware which helps confirm authenticity
• Laura Ashley stamps or labels typically found inside drawers or on the back
• Construction quality consistent with the brand’s standards
• Signs of proper care rather than neglect

I have a friend who discovered a 1980s Laura Ashley oak sideboard at an estate sale for a fraction of its original cost. After minor restoration, it’s now the centerpiece of her dining room—a conversation starter with a history that no new piece can match.

Special Considerations: Delivery, Assembly, and Eco-Credentials

Beyond the aesthetic and functional aspects of Laura Ashley sideboards, there are practical considerations that impact the overall ownership experience:

Delivery and Installation

Laura Ashley sideboards are substantial pieces that require careful handling during delivery. When purchasing new, delivery options typically include:

• Threshold delivery: Where the piece is brought to your doorway but not placed in its final position
• Room of choice delivery: Placement in your designated room
• White glove service: Full installation including removal of packaging

Given the weight and value of these pieces, I strongly recommend opting for the most comprehensive delivery service available, even if it incurs an additional cost. My delivery team not only positioned my sideboard perfectly but also ensured it was level—an important detail for proper drawer operation.

Assembly Requirements

Most Laura Ashley sideboards come fully assembled, which is a significant advantage over flat-packed alternatives. This factory assembly ensures that joints are properly glued and clamped, hardware is correctly installed, and the piece arrives ready to use.

Some exceptions exist, particularly with larger pieces that might need minimal assembly (such as attaching legs or handles) for delivery practicality. In these cases, clear instructions are provided, and the process is typically straightforward.

Sustainability and Eco-Credentials

Laura Ashley has increasingly emphasized sustainability in their production processes. Current eco-friendly practices include:

• Sourcing wood from managed forests with replenishment programs
• Water-based finishes with lower environmental impact
• Packaging reduction initiatives to minimize waste
• Furniture constructed for longevity rather than planned obsolescence

For those particularly concerned about environmental impact, inquiring about specific pieces’ eco-credentials is worthwhile. Additionally, purchasing vintage Laura Ashley pieces represents perhaps the most environmentally friendly option, extending the lifecycle of existing furniture.

Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Decades of Beauty

Proper care ensures your Laura Ashley sideboard remains beautiful for generations. Based on both manufacturer recommendations and personal experience, I recommend:

For Wood Finishes

• Dust regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth
• Clean with mild soap solution when necessary, avoiding harsh chemicals
• Apply quality furniture polish sparingly once or twice yearly
• Use coasters and mats to prevent water rings and heat damage
• Position away from direct sunlight to prevent uneven fading
• Maintain consistent humidity levels when possible to prevent wood movement

For Painted Finishes

• Dust with a soft cloth regularly
• Clean with very mild soap solution when needed
• Touch up chips promptly to prevent further damage
• Avoid abrasive cleaners that might damage the finish

For Hardware

• Clean and polish occasionally to maintain appearance
• Tighten any loosening screws promptly
• Apply a drop of oil to hinges if they begin to squeak

With proper care, a quality Laura Ashley sideboard can easily last several decades—making the initial investment increasingly reasonable when calculated as cost-per-year-of-use.

How Laura Ashley Sideboards Compare to Other Premium Brands

When investing in premium furniture, it’s natural to compare options across different brands. Laura Ashley sideboards compete in the market alongside other established names like Neptune, OKA, and Ercol. How do they stack up?

Laura Ashley vs. Neptune

Neptune offers similar quality with perhaps a slightly more contemporary interpretation of traditional designs. Their pieces tend to be:

• Somewhat higher priced than comparable Laura Ashley items
• Available in a more limited color palette
• Constructed with similar attention to detail

Laura Ashley vs. OKA

OKA furniture often draws from more global influences compared to Laura Ashley’s distinctly British aesthetic:

• Similar price points for comparable pieces
• Often incorporating more eclectic design elements
• Generally excellent construction quality

Laura Ashley vs. Ercol

Ercol represents a more distinctly mid-century British tradition:

• Typically more modernist in design language
• Often showcasing more visible joinery as a design feature
• Comparable quality but different aesthetic sensibility

What distinguishes Laura Ashley in this competitive landscape is their distinctive blend of traditional British design with practical functionality and their immediately recognizable aesthetic that has remained consistent despite evolving with contemporary tastes.

Creating a Cohesive Look: Matching Collections and Complementary Pieces

Many Laura Ashley sideboards belong to broader furniture collections, allowing you to create a coordinated look throughout your home. Common complementary pieces include:

• Dining tables and chairs designed to work harmoniously with sideboards
• Display cabinets and hutches that share design elements
• Console tables for hallways or living areas
• Coffee and side tables for living spaces
• Occasional pieces like wine racks or lamp tables

While matching furniture sets have fallen somewhat out of fashion in contemporary interior design, having the option to incorporate coordinating pieces can be valuable—particularly in open-plan spaces where visual cohesion helps create a sense of harmony.

That said, I personally prefer a more collected approach. My Laura Ashley sideboard shares space with a dining table inherited from my grandmother and contemporary chairs—creating an eclectic but intentional look that tells a more interesting story than perfectly matched pieces would.

If you’re drawn to the Laura Ashley aesthetic but don’t want a “showroom look,” consider:

1. Selecting one anchor piece (like a sideboard) from their collections
2. Complementing with vintage or antique items that share similar proportions or materials
3. Adding contemporary elements through lighting, art, or accessories

This approach captures the quality and character of Laura Ashley while creating a more personalized, evolved interior.

Finding the Perfect Laura Ashley Sideboard: My Personal Recommendations

After years of living with, researching, and admiring Laura Ashley sideboards, I’ve developed some definite opinions about which models excel for particular needs:

For Traditional Dining Rooms

The Henshaw Collection offers the most classically proportioned pieces with refined detailing that complements formal dining spaces. The Henshaw Dark Oak Large Sideboard, in particular, provides generous storage while making an elegant statement.

For Country-Inspired Interiors

The Garrat Collection, with its slightly distressed finishes and accessible design, works beautifully in country and cottage settings. The Honey finish brightens spaces while the Chestnut option adds richness and depth.

For Smaller Spaces

The Brompton Compact Sideboard offers Laura Ashley quality in a more apartment-friendly footprint. At just 85cm wide, it provides essential storage without overwhelming modest rooms.

For Contemporary Homes

The Milton Collection bridges traditional craftsmanship with cleaner, more contemporary lines. These pieces work exceptionally well in transitional interiors where you’re blending heritage elements with modern sensibilities.

For Maximum Storage

The Dorset Extra Large Sideboard offers cavernous storage with multiple drawers and cabinets, perfect for those who entertain frequently or have extensive dining and serving collections to accommodate.

Final Thoughts: Is a Laura Ashley Sideboard Right for You?

After exploring every aspect of Laura Ashley sideboards—from design to construction, pricing to placement—the question remains: is this the right choice for your home?

In my experience, Laura Ashley sideboards represent an excellent investment for those who:

• Value quality construction and materials
• Appreciate traditional British design with contemporary functionality
• Are willing to invest in pieces intended to last for decades
• Desire furniture with a distinct character and heritage

The premium pricing reflects genuine quality differences that become increasingly apparent over years of ownership. My own Laura Ashley sideboard has moved homes with me twice, showing only minimal signs of wear despite regular use.

That said, these pieces might not be ideal for those who:

• Frequently redecorate or change furniture
• Prefer ultra-contemporary, minimalist aesthetics
• Are working with very limited budgets
• Need immediate delivery (as some pieces may have lead times)

The right sideboard doesn’t just store your belongings—it tells your story. Laura Ashley sideboards tell a story of craftsmanship, heritage, and enduring design—qualities increasingly rare in our disposable furniture era.

Whether you choose a brand-new piece from their current collections or hunt down a vintage treasure from decades past, a Laura Ashley sideboard represents more than just furniture. It’s an investment in quality, a commitment to beauty in everyday objects, and perhaps most importantly, a recognition that the pieces with which we furnish our homes matter—not just functionally, but emotionally.

After all, these are the pieces around which we gather, celebrate, and live our daily lives. They deserve to be chosen with care, maintained with attention, and appreciated for the craft they represent. In a world of increasingly transient possessions, a Laura Ashley sideboard stands as a quiet testament to more enduring values—a choice I’ve never regretted making for my own home.