Trunk Coffee Tables for a Stylish Storage Feature

Do you like looking at an old chest or trunk and thinking of what you could do with it? Maybe clean it up and use it for some extra storage in the house. Perhaps use it as a blanket box for the bedroom, or it could possibly be a place to store your seasonal items of clothing in while they are not being used. But have you ever considered using it as a focal point in your living room or lounge room? What might look like just a tatty old box could in actual fact be transformed into the perfect trunk coffee table.

If you want a do-it-yourself project then a good trunk can be obtained from any number of places and are a relatively inexpensive item. Second hand furniture stores, junk stores, auction houses and even garage sales can all reap wonderful rewards when looking for that special piece you can transform. And while the trunk should be in relatively good condition, it doesn’t necessarily have to be perfect in order to make a great modern coffee table.

A trunk coffee table can make an eye-catching alternative to the usual wooden table, and it also has the added benefit of doubling up as a unique and stylish answer to any storage problems. A traditional style of trunk will probably look best in a room that has classic décor and furniture, while a more modern one will look great in a contemporary styled room.

It is possible to get trunks in a range of different materials, from wooden to classic leather. And most of them, especially the older ones, will usually have some type of decorative trim such as brass locks and hinges or leather straps and handles. Once the trunk has been cleaned it can look absolutely stunning, although some people prefer to leave them in their original state as it can add character to the piece.

While trunks are available in numerous sizes, they typically have two variations on style. The “hump back” trunk has a lid that is arched, and as such it wouldn’t be suitable for use as a table. Whereas the flat topped trunk would be ideal. Some people use the trunk on its own as a table without any kind of modification, while others choose to place a sheet of glass or wood over the top to protect it from any damage from drinks etc. It is good to remember though that placing any kind of additional top on the trunk can have a detrimental affect to its functionality in so much as using it as storage would become slightly more difficult.

As well as using the trunk coffee table for additional storage, they can be used effectively to “dress” a room. Placing magazines, books or candles on top, or a strategic plant or water arrangement, can make a stunning center piece for any room. And because trunks are not usually overly large, then can be perfect for use as end tables or accent tables too.