Is An Outdoor Buffet Cabinet Or Credenza Better For A Patio?

When it comes to finding an appropriate and stylish storage solution for your home, you might've considered investing in either a credenza or a buffet cabinet. You've probably even heard these staple furniture pieces used interchangeably, but credenzas and buffet cabinets are technically two different storage solutions. Typically, both buffet cabinets and credenzas can be found greeting guests at entryways, along hallways, in dining rooms, or in living rooms, but they can also be considered for beautiful outdoor patio storage ideas. The question is, which cabinet is a more suitable choice for your outdoor space?

Before you can decide which storage solution works best for you, it helps to understand the key differences between these two storage cabinets and their unique features. Credenzas are typically long, low-lying storage units that feature short legs, shelves, and drawers behind sleek cabinet doors. On the other hand, buffet cabinets are typically taller in height and have longer legs than credenzas with doors that open out and are primarily used in dining rooms to store and display items. Both credenzas and buffet cabinets can hold a wide variety of items, including but not limited to dishes, linens, candles, and seasonal decor. 

If you want to add a buffet or credenza to your patio, there are some things you should consider. For one thing, you'll want to plan out what you'll be storing in the unit. And then, you'll want to figure out the size of the space you're working with. From there, you can narrow it down to the storage solution you need.

Buffet cabinets are beautiful storage solutions that come in a variety of different styles and materials. A warm and inviting addition to your outdoor living space, a buffet cabinet can help make your patio the ultimate entertaining destination. They also generally offer more storage room than credenzas.

Since they typically sit pretty high, buffet cabinets can act as storage units and counter spaces. You can set up food on the top of the credenza where it's easy to access, and then store the serving dishes in the bottom cabinets. The top can also function as a makeshift bar area and the cabinets can hold the drink mixes and glassware. Buffet cabinets are also useful in everyday life, as they can be used to store outdoor cushions, blankets, grilling items, or board games. A stunning and chic outdoor buffet cabinet can help create a cozy and laid-back atmosphere, much like your favorite restaurant with al fresco seating.

Many buffet cabinets, like credenzas, are not designed for outdoor use, so keep an eye out for options that will be okay outside. It's important to choose durable materials, such as teak wood or resin wicker, that can withstand harsh weather conditions. What's more, you should also consider rust-resistant materials, like aluminum or stainless steel. Finally, if you're working with a smaller space, a buffet cabinet probably isn't the move. These units are usually on the bigger side, and you don't want to overpower your patio area with a bulky piece of furniture.

Credenzas can also be a great — and visually appealing — storage option for your outdoor area. Because of their often sleek design, a credenza can add elegance and, by proxy, elevate the overall ambiance of your patio. Since they usually are on the smaller side, credenza may win in terms of space efficiency compared to a buffet table. Credenzas also offer concealed storage, making it an excellent option for those who want to hide outdoor clutter without compromising on style. They are also usually less imposing than buffet cabinets, so they can be neatly tucked into smaller patio spots. 

As previously noted, not all credenzas are made with the great outdoors in mind, so be mindful when selecting your storage solution for your patio, especially with regards to the materials. Also, if you were hoping to serve or prepare food on top of your outdoor cabinet, some credenzas might not be the right move. While there are certainly credenzas that are on the taller side, many sit low to the ground and/or are not very long. Crouching down to pick up some crudités off of a cramped cabinet doesn't exactly sound ideal. Furthermore, if you are looking to store a lot of outdoor accessories, the credenza might not be enough. Again, it's all about figuring out what both works for your space and is functional.