Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboard

My Journey Finding the Perfect Statement Piece for Our Family Space

When my husband and I moved into our 1930s semi-detached home last spring, the dining room was a blank canvas begging for character. The previous owners had stripped everything back to bare walls and floorboards, leaving us with endless possibilities but also the overwhelming task of creating a cohesive, inviting space. After weeks of Pinterest boards and late-night design debates, we agreed on one thing: the right sideboard would become the anchor piece our dining room desperately needed.

Little did I know that my search would lead me to become somewhat of an expert on the Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboard—a piece that has not only transformed our dining room but has become the most complimented item in our home. Today, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about this stunning piece of furniture for anyone considering making this investment in their own home.

The First Encounter: Love at First Sight

I first spotted the Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboard while browsing through a home décor magazine at my dentist’s office. Something about its classic silhouette paired with those signature cup handles immediately caught my eye. The sideboard looked both timeless and contemporary—a difficult balance to achieve in furniture design.

That evening, I began my research in earnest. What started as casual interest quickly developed into a full-blown obsession. I wanted to know everything: materials, dimensions, price points, availability, and whether it would actually work in our space. Six months and countless hours of research later, I’m now the proud owner of a dark chestnut Garrat Sideboard that has completely transformed our dining room.

The Laura Ashley Legacy: Understanding What You’re Buying

Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth understanding the brand behind this coveted piece. Laura Ashley has been a stalwart of British design since the 1950s, known primarily for its distinctive floral prints and quintessentially English country aesthetic. While the fashion and home décor brand has undergone various transformations over the decades, their furniture lines—particularly the Garrat collection—maintain that signature blend of traditional craftsmanship with practical, livable design.

The Garrat collection, named after a traditional English carpentry technique, debuted in the early 2000s and quickly became one of the brand’s most successful furniture lines. Its popularity stems from its versatility—the pieces work equally well in period properties and contemporary homes, blending traditional design elements with clean, unfussy lines.

Current Availability Status: A Complicated Picture

One of the most frequent questions I encountered during my research was whether the Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboard is still available for purchase. The answer is both yes and no, and requires some explanation.

In 2020, Laura Ashley entered administration (the UK equivalent of Chapter 11 bankruptcy), throwing the future of their furniture lines into question. While the brand was subsequently acquired by Gordon Brothers, the new owners primarily focused on the textile and design aspects of the business rather than furniture production.

However, the Garrat furniture line lives on through licensing agreements with specialist furniture retailers. Today, you can find authentic Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboards through select retailers including:

• Laura Ashley partner stores
• Furniture Village
• Next Home
• Wayfair (occasionally)
• John Lewis (limited stock)
• Independent furniture retailers who specialize in traditional designs

During my search, I found that availability fluctuates significantly. Some retailers may have waiting lists extending several months, particularly for certain finishes or configurations. If you have your heart set on a specific color or size, patience may be required.

Price Points: What to Expect and Budget For

Let’s address the elephant in the room—Laura Ashley Garrat Sideboards represent a significant investment. Based on my extensive research and recent purchase experience, here’s what you can expect to pay in 2025:

• Small Garrat Sideboard (approximately 90-100cm width): £899-£1,099
• Medium Garrat Sideboard (approximately 120-130cm width): £1,199-£1,399
• Large Garrat Sideboard (approximately 150-160cm width): £1,399-£1,799
• Extra Large/Feature Sideboards (180cm+ width): £1,899-£2,499

These prices typically vary based on the finish (with painted finishes generally commanding a premium over wood stains), current promotions, and retailer markup. During major sales periods (Boxing Day, January sales, etc.), discounts of 20-30% are not uncommon, which is how I managed to secure my medium chestnut sideboard for £950 rather than its usual £1,299 price tag.

Is it worth the investment? In my experience, absolutely. After comparing similar styles from other manufacturers, I found the quality, craftsmanship, and attention to detail of the Garrat line to be superior to many competitors at similar price points. The solid wood construction (more on that shortly) also means this piece will likely outlast trendier, less substantial alternatives.

Material Matters: What Your Garrat Sideboard Is Actually Made Of

One of the key selling points—and justifications for the price—is the material construction of these sideboards. The Laura Ashley Garrat collection primarily uses solid oak or mahogany for the main structure, with select models incorporating oak or mahogany veneers for certain panels.

My dark chestnut model features solid oak construction for the frame, legs, and drawer fronts, with oak veneer used for the side panels and top surface. This combination provides the weight and durability of solid wood where it matters most structurally, while preventing the issues that can arise with large solid wood panels (like warping or splitting over time).

The interior shelving typically uses high-quality engineered wood with matching veneer finishes. Drawer runners are metal rather than wood, ensuring smooth operation even after years of use—a detail I particularly appreciated when I examined floor models before making my purchase.

The hardware—those distinctive cup handles and hinges—is typically brass or brushed nickel depending on the finish you select. These metal elements provide both visual interest and durability, with a substantial feel that cheaper imitations simply can’t match.

Dimensions and Sizing: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Selecting the right size sideboard for your space is crucial—too small and it will look insubstantial; too large and it will overwhelm the room. The Garrat collection offers several standard sizes, which I’ve compiled below based on my research:

Small Garrat Sideboard:

• Width: 95-100cm
• Height: 80-85cm
• Depth: 40-45cm

Medium Garrat Sideboard:

• Width: 125-130cm
• Height: 80-85cm
• Depth: 40-45cm

Large Garrat Sideboard:

• Width: 155-160cm
• Height: 80-85cm
• Depth: 40-45cm

Extra Large Garrat Sideboard:

• Width: 180-190cm
• Height: 80-85cm
• Depth: 40-45cm

My medium sideboard (127cm width) fits perfectly in our dining room, providing ample storage while leaving enough wall space to avoid that cramped feeling. I measured my space multiple times and even created a cardboard template before committing—a step I highly recommend to ensure proper fit.

The depth of around 42cm is particularly well-considered. It’s deep enough to store large serving platters and dinnerware but shallow enough to avoid protruding too far into the room. This thoughtful dimensioning is one of those subtle design elements that makes the Garrat collection so livable.

Color Options: From Traditional to Contemporary

While Laura Ashley is often associated with a traditional aesthetic, the Garrat collection offers finishes to suit various interior styles. Based on my research and retailer visits, these are the most commonly available finishes as of 2025:

Wood Finishes:

• Dark Chestnut (my choice)
• Natural Oak
• Honey Oak
• Mahogany

Painted Finishes:

• Cream
• Pale Duck Egg
• Truffle
• Slate Grey
• Black

Many retailers offer a combination of painted bases with wood tops, which provides a lovely contemporary contrast while maintaining the collection’s traditional feel. The two-tone versions typically command a £100-200 premium over single-finish models.

When selecting a finish, consider both your existing décor and long-term plans. I chose dark chestnut because it complements our oak flooring without matching it exactly (which can look oddly uniform). The darker wood also creates a pleasant contrast with our cream walls while providing a neutral base that will accommodate future décor changes.

Storage Capacity: What Can You Actually Fit Inside?

Functionality was just as important as aesthetics in my decision-making process. The Garrat sideboard offers impressive storage capacity that has transformed our dining room organization.

My medium model features:

• Two double-door cabinets with adjustable interior shelving
• Three central drawers of varying depths
• The top drawer is divided for smaller items like cutlery
• A surface area large enough for display items and everyday use

The adjustable shelving is particularly useful—I’ve configured one cabinet with a single shelf to accommodate tall wine glasses and decanters, while the other has two shelves for stacked dinnerware.

The drawers operate on smooth metal runners and close with a satisfying gentle thud rather than a clatter—a small detail that speaks to the overall quality. I was impressed to find that the drawers extend fully, allowing access to items at the back without awkward reaching.

In practical terms, my medium sideboard comfortably stores:

• Complete dinner service for 12
• Glassware collection (wine, water, champagne)
• Table linens and napkins
• Serving platters and special occasion pieces
• Bar accessories and less frequently used kitchen gadgets

This generous storage capacity has freed up valuable kitchen cabinet space while keeping entertaining essentials within easy reach of our dining table.

Caring for Your Investment: Maintenance Tips

After making such a significant purchase, proper care becomes essential to protect your investment. Based on my experience and the manufacturer’s recommendations, here’s how to keep your Garrat sideboard looking its best:

For wood finishes:

• Dust regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth
• Avoid silicon-based polishes which can build up over time
• Apply a high-quality beeswax polish twice yearly to nourish the wood
• Use coasters for drinks and mats for hot dishes placed on the surface
• Position away from direct sunlight to prevent uneven fading

For painted finishes:

• Clean with a slightly damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals
• Touch up any chips promptly with matching paint (retailers sometimes provide touch-up kits)
• Use a mild soap solution for more stubborn marks, followed by a clean water wipe

For all models:

• Check and tighten hinges and handles annually
• Apply a drop of oil to drawer runners if they begin to stick
• Keep away from radiators and heat sources which can dry and crack the wood

I’ve found that a weekly dust and occasional polish keeps my sideboard looking as good as the day it arrived. The quality of the finish means it’s surprisingly forgiving of minor spills if wiped promptly.

Small Space Solutions: Can the Garrat Work in Compact Rooms?

Not everyone has a spacious dining room, which raises the question: is the Laura Ashley Garrat sideboard suitable for smaller spaces? Based on my research and observations in various home settings, the answer is a qualified yes.

The small Garrat model (around 95cm width) offers all the signature design elements and quality construction in a more compact footprint. Its depth of approximately 42cm is consistent across all sizes, making it relatively unobtrusive. For truly tiny spaces, there’s even a narrow console table version of the Garrat design that captures the aesthetic while protruding just 35cm from the wall.

That said, the Garrat collection has a certain presence by design. Even the smallest model has substantial legs and carved detailing that gives it visual weight. In a very small room, this could potentially feel overwhelming.

For compact spaces, consider:

• The small Garrat model with a lighter finish to visually recede
• Positioning against the longest wall to avoid disrupting traffic flow
• Using the sideboard as a room divider in open-plan spaces
• Selecting a model with mirrored panels (available in some versions) to create the illusion of more space

When I was considering our purchase, I visited a friend’s Victorian terrace home where the small Garrat in cream looked absolutely stunning in a dining room measuring just 3m × 3.5m. The key was careful positioning and thoughtful styling that embraced rather than fought against the piece’s substantial character.

Comparison Shopping: How Does Garrat Stack Up Against Competitors?

During my six-month research phase, I compared the Laura Ashley Garrat sideboard against numerous competitors across various price points. This comparison shopping provided valuable context and ultimately confirmed that the Garrat offered the right balance of quality, design, and value for our needs.

High-end competitors (£2,000+):

• Neptune Henley: Similar quality but more minimalist design, approximately 20% more expensive
• OKA Stafford: Comparable craftsmanship with more ornate detailing, 30-40% higher price point
• Ralph Lauren Home collections: Superior materials but significantly more expensive (£3,000+)

Mid-range alternatives (£800-1,500):

• Oak Furnitureland Highgate: Similar aesthetic but less refined detailing, 15-20% less expensive
• John Lewis Maharani: Distinctive carved design, similar price point but more specific aesthetic
• Cotswold Company Burford: Good quality, slightly less substantial construction, 10-15% less expensive

Budget options (Under £800):

• IKEA Hemnes: Similar silhouette but pine construction, significantly lighter feel, 60-70% less expensive
• Dunelm Sideboard ranges: Various options with similar looks but visible quality differences, 50-60% cheaper
• Online marketplaces: Multiple lookalikes with considerably lighter construction and less durable materials

After examining floor models and, where possible, looking inside the cabinets to assess construction methods, the Garrat’s value proposition became clear. While not the least expensive option, it offered substantially better construction than budget alternatives while remaining more accessible than ultra-premium brands.

The deciding factor for me was the combination of solid wood construction in the structural elements, quality hardware, and the refinement of details like the internally mitred corners and hand-finished edges. These elements suggest a piece that will age gracefully rather than require replacement in a few years.

The Secondhand Market: Finding a Pre-Loved Garrat

Given the significant investment a new Garrat sideboard represents, I seriously investigated the secondhand market before making my purchase. This research revealed a vibrant resale community and some interesting patterns worth sharing.

Laura Ashley Garrat sideboards hold their value remarkably well. On platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and specialty furniture resale sites, I typically found models in good condition selling for 50-70% of their original retail price—significantly better value retention than most mass-market furniture.

Based on my observations of dozens of listings over several months:

Advantages of buying secondhand:

• Cost savings of 30-50% depending on condition and age
• Immediate availability without production/delivery delays
• Already “broken in” with wood that has settled and adjusted
• Potentially rarer finishes no longer in production

Challenges of the secondhand market:

• Limited selection at any given time
• Difficulty finding specific sizes or finishes
• Transportation logistics (these are heavy pieces!)
• Potential for undisclosed damage or repairs
• No warranty protection

I came very close to purchasing a secondhand model—a beautiful honey oak large sideboard listed at £675—but ultimately decided on new after discovering hairline cracks in two of the drawer fronts during inspection. That said, I’ve seen many stunning examples in excellent condition on the secondhand market.

If pursuing this route, I recommend:

• Setting up alerts on multiple platforms with specific search terms
• Being prepared to act quickly when the right piece appears
• Inspecting thoroughly in person before committing
• Arranging professional transportation rather than attempting DIY
• Checking all drawers, doors, and hardware during inspection

Assembly Requirements: What to Expect

For those purchasing new, understanding the assembly requirements is important. Most Laura Ashley Garrat sideboards arrive partially assembled, striking a balance between shipping practicality and customer convenience.

Based on my experience and conversations with other owners:

• The main cabinet typically arrives fully assembled
• Legs and some hardware may require attachment
• Clear instructions and all necessary tools are usually included
• Assembly typically takes 30-60 minutes for two people
• Professional assembly services are available from most retailers (approximately £50-100)

My sideboard arrived with the cabinet structure fully assembled, requiring only attachment of the six legs and installation of the adjustable interior shelves. This took my husband and me about 45 minutes, including unpacking and disposal of the substantial protective packaging.

The most challenging aspect was the weight—approximately 65kg for my medium model—which made positioning the piece a two-person job. I highly recommend planning your room layout in advance and clearing a path from delivery point to final location.

Is the Garrat Collection Discontinued?

This question appears frequently in online forums and search results, creating understandable confusion. The technical answer is that the original Laura Ashley manufacturing has been discontinued following the company’s 2020 administration. However, the design lives on through licensing agreements.

The practical result is that authentic Laura Ashley Garrat sideboards are still available new from authorized retailers, manufactured to the original specifications under license. These aren’t “inspired by” pieces but genuine continuations of the original design.

When purchasing, I recommend confirming that you’re buying from an authorized Laura Ashley furniture partner rather than a retailer offering a “similar style” that merely mimics the Garrat aesthetic. Authorized partners will prominently display the Laura Ashley branding and provide appropriate documentation with your purchase.

Warranty and Quality Assurance

Another important consideration is warranty coverage. Most authorized retailers offer a 1-2 year manufacturer’s warranty on new Garrat sideboards, covering manufacturing defects but not accidental damage or normal wear.

My purchase came with a 2-year warranty that specifically covered:

• Structural integrity of the frame and cabinets
• Drawer runner and hinge functionality
• Stability of joints and fixed components
• Finish adherence and consistency

Extended warranties are typically available for an additional fee, though I opted against this after assessing the sideboard’s robust construction. Instead, I made sure our home insurance specifically covered furniture items above a certain value—something worth considering for significant furniture investments.

The warranty documentation included helpful contact information and a clear process for reporting any issues, which provided additional peace of mind with such a substantial purchase.

Styling Your Garrat Sideboard: Making It Your Own

Once your sideboard is in place, the fun part begins—styling it to complement your home and personal aesthetic. Over the months since our purchase, I’ve experimented with various approaches and gathered inspiration from other Garrat owners.

For the surface:

• A balance of decorative and functional items works best
• Odd numbers of objects (three or five) create visual interest
• Varying heights add dimension (table lamps, vases, sculptures)
• Books or decorative boxes provide practical storage while looking intentional
• A large mirror or artwork centered above anchors the piece to the wall

For the surrounding space:

• Allow approximately 70-80cm clearance in front for easy access to drawers and cabinets
• Consider a complementary rug to define the area
• Wall sconces flanking the sideboard create a sophisticated lighting effect
• Plants (real or high-quality faux) soften the substantial woodwork

I’ve found that my styling naturally evolves with the seasons—heavier, cozier elements in winter (chunky candles, woven textures) give way to lighter touches in summer (glass vessels, botanical elements). This seasonal refresh keeps the piece feeling current while the sideboard itself provides consistent architectural presence.

The Historical Context: Understanding the Design Influences

For those who appreciate design history, understanding the influences behind the Garrat collection adds another dimension to ownership. The collection draws from several distinct furniture traditions:

• Georgian cabinetry with its emphasis on proportion and symmetry
• Victorian functionality with substantial storage capabilities
• Arts and Crafts movement’s celebration of visible craftsmanship
• Modern farmhouse aesthetics with its blend of rustic and refined elements

The name “Garrat” itself references a traditional English joinery technique dating back to the 18th century, involving particular methods of corner construction that enhanced structural integrity.

These historical influences explain why the design feels simultaneously timeless and contemporary—it incorporates elements that have proven their staying power across centuries of furniture design while avoiding overly ornate details that might quickly date the piece.

Real-World Experiences: What Owners Say

During my research phase, I connected with several other Garrat owners through interior design forums and social media groups. Their long-term experiences provided valuable insights beyond what I could observe in showrooms or gather from manufacturer information.

Common themes in these conversations included:

Positive experiences:

• Exceptional durability, with many owners reporting 10+ years of use with minimal signs of wear
• Versatility across different homes and room configurations when moving
• Consistently positive comments from visitors
• Ability to blend with evolving décor styles

Considerations and minor critiques:

• Dark finishes show dust more readily, requiring more frequent light cleaning
• Some owners of older models noted slight color changes where direct sunlight reached the wood
• The substantial weight makes repositioning challenging
• Occasional need to tighten handles over years of use

Perhaps most tellingly, several owners mentioned having purchased additional pieces from the Garrat collection after living with their sideboard—a powerful endorsement of the design’s lasting appeal and functionality.

Customization Possibilities: Making It Uniquely Yours

While the Garrat sideboard comes in several standard finishes, some owners desire additional personalization. Based on my research and conversations with interior designers, several customization approaches are worth considering:

Professional customization:

• Some authorized retailers offer custom finishing for an additional fee
• Specialty furniture restorers can apply unique finishes or techniques
• Custom hardware can replace the standard cup handles for a different look

DIY approaches (for the brave):

• Chalk paint techniques can transform a wood finish to a painted surface
• Hardware replacement is relatively straightforward with standard measurements
• Interior cabinet backing can be wallpapered for a surprise element when doors open

I ultimately chose to keep my sideboard in its original finish but upgraded the interior with adhesive cedar lining in the drawers—a subtle customization that adds a pleasant aroma when opened and provides additional protection for stored textiles.

If considering significant modifications, I recommend consulting with a furniture professional first, as improper techniques can damage the piece and potentially void any remaining warranty coverage.

Alternatives Worth Considering

While I ultimately chose the Laura Ashley Garrat sideboard, several alternatives impressed me during my research. For those who appreciate the Garrat aesthetic but haven’t quite found the perfect match, these alternatives merit consideration:

For traditional styling with modern functionality:

• Neptune Henley collection
• Cotswold Company Burford range
• Oak Furnitureland Highgate series

For similar quality with different aesthetic:

• Ercol Teramo sideboard (more mid-century influence)
• Willis & Gambier Tuscany range (more Mediterranean feeling)
• John Lewis Hemingway collection (slightly more contemporary lines)

For budget-conscious alternatives:

• Dunelm Sideboard collections
• IKEA Hemnes with upgraded hardware
• Secondhand antique sideboards (often available at similar price points to new budget options but with superior construction)

Each of these alternatives offers different benefits in terms of style, price point, or availability. During my search, I created a comparison spreadsheet tracking dimensions, materials, price, and delivery timeframes—a method I highly recommend for making such a significant purchase decision.

Conclusion: A Furniture Investment That Delivers

Six months into living with our Laura Ashley Garrat sideboard, I can confidently say it has exceeded my expectations. Beyond its obvious aesthetic appeal, it has transformed how we use our dining room, providing both practical storage and a focal point that anchors the entire space.

The greatest strengths of the Garrat sideboard include:

• Timeless design that bridges traditional and contemporary aesthetics
• Exceptional build quality with solid wood construction where it matters most
• Versatile storage configuration adapting to various household needs
• Impressive value retention should resale ever become necessary
• Subtle details that reveal themselves over time and continued use

Is it perfect? No piece of furniture truly is. The substantial weight makes cleaning behind it challenging, and the dark chestnut finish does highlight dust more quickly than I’d prefer. But these minor considerations pale in comparison to the daily pleasure of using and admiring this beautiful piece of furniture.

For anyone considering a quality sideboard that will likely outlast most other furniture in your home, the Laura Ashley Garrat collection represents an investment in both function and beauty that will serve your home for decades to come. Whether purchased new from an authorized retailer or discovered in the secondhand market, these pieces carry forward a tradition of English furniture craftsmanship that’s increasingly rare in today’s disposable furniture landscape.

As I write this from my dining room, glancing occasionally at the warm chestnut tones and distinctive silhouette of my Garrat sideboard, I’m reminded that some purchases transcend mere consumption to become part of our daily living experience. In a world of rapidly changing trends and planned obsolescence, there’s profound satisfaction in choosing quality that improves with age and tells a story of thoughtful curation rather than momentary impulse.