Choose the Perfect Granite Top Buffet Server for Your Dining Room
Granite top buffet servers are timeless, versatile pieces of furniture that add functionally and style to dining rooms. With their solid hardwood cabinetry and durable granite countertops, these handsome servers make both a practical and decorative statement.
We'll look at the key benefits of granite materials, important considerations when selecting your piece, stylish ways to utilize your buffet, and the fascinating history of this furniture style. Let's dive in!
What is a Granite Top Buffet Server?
A granite top buffet server consists of a hardwood cabinet base topped with a granite countertop surface. The cabinet section typically offers enclosed storage space with doors, drawers, and adjustable shelves. The smooth granite top provides an elegant and functional prep area or serving space.
These versatile pieces can be used in a variety of ways. Their granite surface is ideal for displaying and serving food at informal buffet-style gatherings. The cabinet storage allows you to neatly tuck away extra serveware, table linens, or bar accessories. Many people also use them as supplemental counter space and storage in kitchens and entertaining areas.
Benefits of Choosing a Granite Top
There are many excellent reasons to select a granite top material for your buffet server. Granite is one of the most durable and resilient natural stones available. It will maintain its beautiful appearance for decades to come.
Granite possesses superior strength compared to other natural stones, so it can withstand heavy use and weight without cracking. It also resists scratches, stains, and heat. You don't have to worry about hot pans or messy spills damaging the surface.
Another advantage of granite is that it's very easy to clean and maintain. Simply wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap as needed. You'll never have to deal with sealing or polishing the surface. Granite won't harbor bacteria either, so it's the ideal hygienic choice for food prep areas.
Of course, granite is also gorgeous to look at. The natural mineral deposits form lovely patterns and colors in the stone. Granite adds a touch of timeless elegance that enhances any decor style. It's a material that will never go out of fashion.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Granite Top Server
Selecting the perfect granite top buffet requires some careful consideration regarding size, storage, design, quality, and delivery. Keep the following factors in mind as you shop.
Size and Dimensions
Be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the buffet server. Leave adequate room around the piece for traffic flow. Typical granite top buffet dimensions range between 30 to 50 inches wide and 16 to 20 inches deep. However, the size you choose depends on your specific needs.
If you'll mainly use the buffet for serving, opt for a spacious top around 40-50 inches wide. For a buffet that will supplement your kitchen storage, a 30 inch width may suffice. Just ensure you have reasonable clearance around the piece once it's situated.
Storage Options
Assess how much enclosed storage you need versus open display space. Granite buffet servers offer a variety of storage configurations to suit different needs.
Some feature cabinet doors that conceal adjustable shelves or wine rack storage. Others have a mix of drawers, cabinets, and open shelving. Consider your planned uses - whether for keeping tableware, linens, barware, or display objects. This will guide your storage needs.
Design and Style
Granite buffet servers are available in a range of styles from modern to traditional. Consider the existing decor of your dining room or kitchen. Choose a piece that complements your color palette and aesthetic vision.
For a contemporary look, select a server with simple straight lines and minimal ornamentation. Go for patterned granite full of movement and contrast. Or pick a sleek metal base rather than traditional wood.
For traditional charm, consider a piece with carved cabinet doors, turned feet, and elaborate hardware. Pair this with creamy granite featuring subtle grays and browns. The options are endless.
Quality of Construction
Examine the materials and construction quality when choosing your buffet server. Opt for solid hardwood over veneers which can warp over time. Dovetailed joinery and reinforced corners ensure durability.
Quality hardware includes self-closing drawer glides and adjustable shelves. Also inspect the granite top - it should be at least 1 1/4 inches thick without cracks or pits.
A well-engineered piece made of superior materials will become a lasting fixture in your dining room for years of beauty and service.
Delivery and Installation
Since granite tops make these pieces quite heavy, consider delivery implications. Measure doorways to ensure the buffet will fit through. Some retailers offer White Glove delivery and setup for an added fee.
If assembling the server yourself, have an extra pair of hands ready. You'll need help lifting the granite top into position. Professional installation may be advisable for seamless setup of this substantial piece.
How to Style and Use Your Granite Top Buffet
One of the best aspects of a granite buffet server is how multifunctional it is. Here are some creative and stylish ways to put yours to use.
Atop the granite, display decorative objects like sculptures, vases, candles, or seasonal centerpieces. The surface also comes in handy when entertaining for holding appetizers, desserts, beverages and serving platters. It provides a place to conveniently plate food for buffet-style dinners.
In the kitchen, a granite buffet adds extra prep and counter space. Use it for chopping, mixing, and arranging charcuterie or cheese boards. The cabinets offer supplementary storage for cookware, baking sheets, or table linens.
Repurpose your server as a bar cart by storing spirits, mixers, glassware, and other cocktail essentials inside. Pull it out to serve guests drinks in the living room.
For collectors, the glass-fronted cabinets neatly show off fine china, silver and accessories. Displaying treasured pieces prevents them from becoming damaged or dusty.
History and Evolution of the Granite Top Buffet
The origins of granite top buffet servers can be traced back to 18th century sideboards used for storing dishes and serving food. At the time, pieces featured wooden cabinetry with marble tops.
By the early 1900s, sideboards evolved into buffets. These freestanding cabinets typically had a long top surface for food presentation and enclosed storage below with shelves and drawers.
In the 1970s, granite surfaces emerged for kitchen counters and replaced marble on buffets. Granite grew popular for its durability and natural beauty. Modern buffet servers showcased simpler styling compared to their ornamented predecessors.
Over the following decades, designs became more elaborate again with detailed metalwork, carvings, and mixed media accents. The buffet server remains a dining room staple today, reinvented with fresh aesthetics and enhanced functionality.
Current Trends in Granite Top Buffet Servers
Contemporary granite buffet servers feature some exciting new design trends and innovations.
Mixed material combinations marry natural stone with sleek metals like stainless steel or brass. Granite pairs with glass for transparent cabinet doors. The blending of different textures and tones creates striking contrast.
Two-tone buffet servers make a statement. Pair a bold granite with contrasting cabinet colors like navy blue, matte black, or muted gray.
Integrated lighting utilizing LED strips or interior lamps creates drama and highlights display objects. Drawers outfitted with dividers, trays, and other organizational elements cater to modern preferences for tidiness.
Minimalist and geometric profiles with straight, boxy lines feel fresh and modern. Multipurpose servers do double duty - like models with removable tray inserts that transition from kitchen cart to bar.
With their blend of elegance, practicality, and versatility, it's clear why granite top buffet servers are prized possessions in many homes. When chosen with your personal needs and style in mind, they become beautiful and functional additions that will bring you joy for years.
Focus on the proper dimensions, storage choices, quality craftsmanship, and visual appeal for your space. Consider fun ways to style your piece from displaying treasured items to serving up delicious buffet spreads.
For unparalleled durability and timeless beauty, a granite top server is sure to provide lasting value and become a treasured heirloom. With the tips from this article, you can pick the perfect piece to enhance your dining room.