Display cabinet with drawers: storage below, presentation above
A display cabinet shows what stands behind glass, but offers little room for things that are not meant to be seen. Models with drawers or a closed base combine the two: presentation above, storage below. For retailers, hotels and restaurants this is practical, because stock, accessories and cleaning materials stay close at hand. Anyone selecting display cabinets with drawers should pay attention to the layout, the load capacity and everyday handling. The following sections explain how the glazed section and base can be divided sensibly, what belongs in the drawers, how good runners can be recognised and what the location demands of the piece.
Division between glass and carcass
The drawers are generally located in the lower third of the piece. The glazed section therefore begins at about hip to waist height, and the items on display move closer to eye level. At the same time the centre of gravity is lower, which benefits stability. The higher the closed base, the less display area remains; two to three drawers are a common compromise. Check whether the glazed area is sufficient for your largest pieces and whether the shelves are height-adjustable, so that the layout can be adapted later.
What belongs in the drawers
Drawers are suited to flat and small items: table linen, cutlery, napkins, catalogues, packaging material or replacement goods. In a shop, the stock for the pieces shown above can be kept there, so that the storeroom does not have to be visited for every sale. Heavy contents belong at the bottom. Pay attention to the internal dimensions, as curved fronts and thick side panels reduce the usable depth. Baroque furniture in particular often has bombé fronts where the internal dimension differs markedly from the external one. A lock is sensible when valuables or till accessories are stored.
Runners, handles and handling
In commercial use, drawers are opened frequently, often with one hand. They should run smoothly, not jam and be secured against being pulled out completely. Traditional wooden runners suit the style but react to humidity and heavy loads; metal runners move more evenly but are not provided on every model. Handles and fittings should be firmly attached and easy to grip. Consider the space in front as well: for opening the drawer and standing in front of it, about 90 to 100 centimetres of clear depth is a workable guide value.
Location, safety and lighting
Tall display cabinets should be secured to the wall against tipping, especially in publicly accessible areas. The floor must be level so that doors and drawers do not stick. Interior lighting highlights the pieces in the glazed section; clarify in advance where the socket is and how the cable will be routed. Direct sunlight can fade sensitive goods and heat up the interior. Position the cabinet so that open doors and drawers do not block a walkway, and with several pieces plan uniform base heights so that the row looks calm.
Related: Console tables, Dining tables, Decoration. The full range: Baroque furniture.
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