How to Choose a China Cabinet

Select a style that will fit the rest of your home decor and blend with other furniture. Match the cabinet to furniture already existing in the room. Country-style cabinets are relaxed and may have scalloped trim or even stenciling. The wood is painted and might even be distressed to give the cabinet a worn look. Select traditional styles for a dramatic and sophisticated design.

Choose a cabinet with a mirrored back wall to accentuate the china displayed. Mirrors not only highlight dishes and stemware, but will make a small room appear larger.

Pick a cabinet with interior lighting to dramatically display the contents. Soft overhead lights in the room, combined with a lighted china cabinet, will direct your eyes to the displayed china.

Look for the added feature of adjustable shelves. Being able to adjust the shelves gives you more options for placing tall objects such as vases or pitchers.

Purchase glass door fronts for optimal viewing to better enjoy all your cherished possessions.

Measure the available space and keep it in mind while shopping. If the cabinet is sitting alongside a dining room table, leave room for comfortable seating and passageway. Corner cabinets are space savers in small rooms.

Set out the items you intend to display inside the cabinet. Arrange the items in the order you would like to place them on the shelves. Take a snapshot of the arrangement with you while shopping to help you stay focused on the size to purchase.