Definition of a Credenza

What is a credenza and what is it used for? Today's definition of a credenza has been expanded to fit many different pieces of furniture, from the sofa table to the media console. Style and versatility of function are what define this unique piece of furniture. Does this Spark an idea?

History of the Credenza

To lend credence to something is to assist in verification of the truth. The credenza, a long, flat topped storage unit that has been in existence since the 19th century, was used for such a purpose. Prior to eating a meal, a king, lord or other member of nobility would have a taster eat the food. The purpose of the taster was to determine whether the food was poisoned, or to verify the authenticity of the food, which had been placed on top of the credenza. We have adopted the Italian version of the word credence, credenza, to describe this piece of furniture that once held food for the taster.

Style

The credenza comes in a number of styles, from the extremely ornate to plain and practical. As expected, styles have changed throughout history. Early credenzas owned by the wealthy boast intricate woodwork, with elaborate wood inlay designs. As the modern furniture period progressed in the 20th century, the style produced was simple, with straight lines and no intricacies. Credenzas can have drawers, cabinets or both and are made from a variety of wood, depending on the style and manufacturer. Some of the modern pieces are made from plastics.

Function

The best attribute of the credenza is its versatility, which makes this an enduring piece of furniture. Whether used in a dining room, office or family room it has numerous functions and can be adapted to suit your needs. In a dining room the storage space would be useful for serving platters, dishes or even liquor. For a family room, the credenza can function as a media console. There are many uses for this extraordinary piece of furniture.

Potential Uses for Your Credenza

Sideboard -- The credenza can be used in the dining room for storing dishes, glasses or liquor.

Buffet -- Food can be placed upon the credenza during meal times to leave more space on the dining table.

Desk -- A credenza is often used as a desk within an office. This type of credenza varies slightly in style in that there is leg space allowing one to sit at the piece and work.

Hutch or Display Cabinet -- A simple use for this piece of furniture, this allows storage space for items that need to be out of sight while leaving the top for display pieces. In this case, the credenza also works as a visual design element within the room.

Office supply storage -- Ideal for paper, ink and office supply storage, the credenza can also hold a printer, fax machine or modem on the top.

Bookcase -- Some credenzas may come with open shelving, but for the most part your books will be tucked away in the cabinet section. You can also display your better known volumes with stylish bookends on the top.

Media console -- Again, depending on the design of the room and the overall look you are hoping to achieve, your credenza can hold your television, stereo and various media equipment. The cabinets and drawers are well suited to store CDs and DVDs.

By Any Other Name

When shopping in a furniture store the following names can describe a credenza:

Sideboard
Sofa table
TV console
Media console
Chest
Buffet

A credenza by any other name is still a credenza: a versatile, extremely useful piece of furniture that can configure to any room. According to Barbara Scott of Once In A Blue Moon Furniture, "People rarely ask for a credenza even though that's what they want. They just come in here with measurements and tell me they need something to hold their television or whatever." So if you are looking for that just right piece of furniture that combines storage with display space, the credenza just might suit your needs.