Curio Cabinets Reviewed - Types and Styles of Curios

Curio cabinets, as the name implies, were developed as storage and display pieces for "curious" or novel decorative objects. Today, they are found in many styles of home, from traditional to modern. Because curio cabinets are available in such a range of styles, it is easy to find one that complements any decor.

If you are looking for small cabinet a great choice is a wall mounted curio cabinet, or you can find some that are free standing or made to sit on a table. Choosing from these options depends on the space available, and what the contents of the cabinet will be. A collection of porcelain figurines, for example, would be well-suited to display in a traditional living or dining room. Here the choice of cabinet might be a wall-mounted piece made of a hardwood such as cherry curio cabinet, that would complement both the decor of the room and the figurines themselves. Out of the reach of small hands, it would protect the fragile pieces while allowing them to be displayed.

In contrast, a collection of antique Dinky toys would be a great conversation piece in a family room. A small table-top curio cabinet would provide easy access to the toys. A casual finish, such as painted wood, complements the playful and antique nature of the curios.

Free-standing console curio cabinets are popular in dining rooms, where they can house a collection of tea cups or a set of fine china. Here, a tall yet narrow corner curio cabinet is a space-saving option. This puts the otherwise unused corner to good use, especially if the cabinet provides shelves from top to bottom.

Glass doors are a standard feature of curio cabinets, as they keep the pieces free from dust. Some curio cabinets are completely enclosed with glass, while other cabinets are glass on the front and sides and have a solid backing. Some units also come with backs that are mirrored or metallic. These cabinets are a dramatic way to showcase a few larger pieces.

Increasing the drama, some cabinets have interior lights, making the piece and its contents a focal point in any room. Many styles of curio cabinet offer adjustable shelves. Some other options to consider are sliding glass doors and locking doors.

There is wide variety of choices in finishes and colors for these units. Probably the most popular color are the white curio cabinets. These will work well in both a formal and more contemporary setting. For a unique and elegant look in a formal setting, nothing beats a gold curio cabinet.

Because these cabinets are so popular and timeless, there are many manufacturers. Some of the top names are Pulaski, Powell, and Howard Miller. Each of these offers a wide range of styles and prices.

Now when deciding on which style of curio cabinet to purchase first take the measurements of the corner or area you wish to install the curio cabinet in. The measurements need to be height, depth and width this will stop you from purchasing a curio cabinet that is either to large or too small for the area.

The style of cabinet is personal, keep in mind the feel of the home and the style that is already there. If you have a contemporary decor in you home, then a large oak cabinet is not the best choice. But after you've chosen the right cabinet, you will find it a joy to display your prized possessions, from family heirlooms to antique knic knacs, there's a good choice in cabinets for you to find.

When my mom passed away I was so pleased to inherit her little 18-inch tall, 3-fold scalloped glass curio cabinet filled with miniature vases. My mom wasn't really a collector of sorts so that little cabinet that hung on the wall with it's contents so perfectly organized and displayed, always spoke to me about a part of my mother that I wasn't so familiar with. I never asked her about why she had it or what it meant to her, it was kind of like a little secret that I just accepted and adored.

I also inherited her china and when looking for a cabinet to store it in, found that antique stores are a plethora for curio cabinet seekers. It took me several months but I did finally find the right cabinet to store her lovely china in. It's original use was more for knick-knacks and collectables, but nowadays people use these curio cabinets for their fine china. They are usually a good price when comparing a new cabinet.