What is an office credenza?
An office credenza is a low storage cabinet, usually 630–850 mm high, that stands against the wall of a meeting room, boardroom, executive office or reception area. It has closed storage behind doors or drawers and a usable top. That means it can hold stationery, files and AV equipment, and also work as a serving point for refreshments or a display for awards and plants. In UK offices, people use "credenza" and "sideboard" almost interchangeably. "Sideboard" describes the shape of the furniture, while "credenza" is the more common name in commercial and boardroom settings.
Credenza vs sideboard vs storage cupboard
- Credenza: low and long, designed for offices and meeting rooms, often with cable access, ventilation and locks.
- Sideboard: the same low shape, with a more homely or hospitality feel. Many office sideboards are credenzas in all but name.
- Storage cupboard: full or mid-height, built to hold as much as possible rather than to look good. Better suited to open-plan storage walls than to the boardroom.
Credenzas for every workspace
Meeting room and boardroom credenza
In a meeting room, a credenza keeps the table clear. It stores spare notepads, presentation kits, and video conferencing accessories. It hides the router and AV boxes behind ventilated doors. And it gives catering its own space, so coffee and lunch don't compete with laptops. Choose a credenza about half to two-thirds the length of your boardroom table, and the room will feel balanced.
Executive and cellular office credenzas
Behind a desk or along a side wall, a credenza adds personal storage without the bulk of a full-height cupboard. Lockable doors keep confidential files secure, and the top is a handy place for a printer, reference books or a monitor.
Reception, waiting and breakout areas
In reception, a credenza holds brochures, guest Wi-Fi details and visitor supplies, and makes a good first impression. In breakout spaces and tea points, deeper units can hide a drinks fridge or wine cooler, making them hospitality stations.
How to choose the right credenza
Height
Most office credenzas sit at about desk height. The Vari Credenza Unit is 730 mm high as standard. Lower designs, such as the Relic Credenza, at 630 mm, suit spaces where the credenza sits under artwork or a wall-mounted screen. Taller options, like the high version of the Mori Credenza, work well in executive offices where storage space matters more than sightlines.
Width
Measure the wall and, where you can, leave at least 600 mm of clear space at each end. For meeting rooms, most people choose widths between 1,500 mm and 2,000 mm. A 1,000 mm unit is ideal for a smaller office.
Depth
A depth of 400 mm keeps walkways clear in tighter rooms. A 600 mm depth leaves room for a fridge, AV racks or larger box files.
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