Things To look Out For When Choosing A Chest Of Drawers

There is such a huge variety of chests of drawers available today that it can be
hard to decide what style is best for you. A well-chosen chest can really make an impact, helping to dictate the feel of a room as well as providing some useful storage. By selecting the right style of chest, you can really make a difference in any room.

The shape of the chest of drawers hasn't changed too drastically over the years. The chest began life in medieval Europe, in the homes of the nobility. Known at the time as a coffer, the chest was, at this time, little more than a wooden box with a hinged lid, often mounted on feet. Next, a drawer was added beneath the main compartment, then two, and finally the hinged top was phased out so that objects could be stored on top. If you'd like some more information on the story of wooden furniture, check out finewoodworking.com's brief history of the chest of drawers.

This chest is a twentieth century
reproduction of a sixteenth century piece

In the last few hundred years, there have been many distinct furnishing styles,
and most have featured interpretations of the classic chest of drawers. If you're going for an opulent traditional look with flowing textiles and dark, rich wood, then look for an antique-styled chest that has been stained and lacquered to give it the old-fashioned grandeur it needs. To maximise the sumptuous elegance of this style, look for chests with long, tapered legs and ornate drawer handles. You can also pair the chest with a matching dressing table, mirror and stool for that truly opulent feel.

Solid wooden chests combine
practicality and appealing looks

If you're after a more modern look, then try seeking out chunky, contemporary-styled chests. These often feature recessed handles instead of metal, and prioritise sleek, unbroken lines and expansive surfaces. This kind of chest looks best when given a matt wax finish.

This chest dates from the 1700s,
yet would fit in with a contemprary
minimalist look

Of course, there are many styles between the classic and the modern, and there is a nearly infinite variety of looks available, from chests that have been distressed to bring warmth to a shabby-chic modern home to quirky painted chests for kids' rooms. This is why it's important to have a good look around before you decide which chest to buy.

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Don't Overlook Your Hall

Even in the most beautifully furnished homes, the hall can often be neglected, despite the fact that it's the first room that visitors see, so it's important to make sure that you get your hall looking just right. If you're short of storage around the home, you can also find handy pieces of furniture that will allow you to make the most of this often overlooked space.

A great paint job is the obvious starting point, so get some paint samples from your local DIY centre and come up with a refreshing colour scheme that will welcome guests and family members as they cross the threshold. Traditional colours like ivory or lemon yellow work great, but so do bold, modern colours like eggplant or lime green. The key is to experiment, and who knows what amazing discoveries you'll make.

Once you've picked your colours, get some furniture to accessorise the room. A console table or small chest of drawers also gives you a little extra storage, so see if you can find a piece that will both add to the atmosphere of the hall and also give you some great practical function.

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