Decorative Storage Trunks to Organise Your Home
A decorative storage trunk offers a simple solution to organising your home, combining function with eye-catching design. At Shimu, we offer a selection of antique and newly made trunks that suit a range of interiors, each with individual character and practical use.
Historically, storage trunks were made to serve a purpose, and in China, they were often used to store clothing, bedding or valuables, and were a standard part of household furniture for centuries. Their size and shape made them easy to stack or transport, and many were constructed with strong brass fittings for both durability and security. Today, these same features make them ideal for the modern home, where storage is essential but space must be utilised efficiently.
Antique Decorative Trunks
Our decorative trunks include both original antiques and contemporary pieces inspired by traditional Chinese design. Antique trunks, usually made from elm or pine, are selected for their condition and visual appeal. Many come from rural provinces in northern China, and each has been restored by hand using traditional methods. The wood is cleaned, stabilised and waxed or polished to reveal its natural grain, while original hardware is left in place where possible.
Some of the trunks we offer are plain, with a simple wood finish and minimal decoration. Others have lacquered surfaces, hand-painted scenes or symbolic motifs in gold or red. These decorated pieces were often used in wealthier households or given as wedding gifts, chosen for their colour and design. In such cases, the trunk not only served a practical purpose but also had a ceremonial role.
As decorative items, storage trunks are highly versatile. Placed at the end of a bed, they provide space for linen or seasonal clothes. Used as a coffee table, they offer hidden storage while adding warmth and interest to a living room. They can also be used in hallways, where shoes, scarves or bags can be tidied away from sight. The flat top surface means a decorative trunk can be used to display books, ceramics or plants, depending on the setting.
For those looking to furnish a guest room or provide discreet storage in a shared space, a decorative storage trunk works well alongside other antique or reproduction furniture. The combination of practicality and detail makes each trunk a useful addition and a point of visual focus.
We also stock a number of smaller trunks and boxes, suitable for use on shelves or sideboards. These are ideal for storing documents, jewellery or personal keepsakes and can be easily moved or repositioned. Their size makes them a thoughtful option when looking for gift ideas—something practical, with individual charm.
Many of our decorative trunks have metal handles on the sides and brass lock plates on the front, following a design that has changed little over the centuries. These details are not simply ornamental; they were originally fitted to support daily use. We continue this approach in our newly made furniture, where trunks are constructed using mortise-and-tenon joints and traditional frame-and-panel methods.
Contemporary Storage Trunks
Our contemporary storage trunks are made by hand in China, often using reclaimed wood from older buildings. This timber is carefully selected and dried to ensure it remains stable once brought into the UK’s climate. The resulting pieces reflect the same simplicity of form found in our antiques, while offering consistency in size, colour and finish.
A decorative trunk is a practical solution, but also offers a unique way to add a personal touch to your interiors. Whether you prefer a natural finish or a painted surface, these pieces fit into both modern and more traditional interiors. The key is in how they are used: as a feature on their own or combined with other furniture to create a calming, balanced space.
Discover our Range of Decorative Storage Trunks
At Shimu, we are happy to advise on suitable pieces based on your home and how you plan to use them. If you are seeking gift ideas, we can suggest smaller items or lighter pieces that are easier to ship or wrap. Each item in our collection is described with dimensions and materials, and additional images can be provided on request.
All items are available to view online, and our showroom in West Yorkshire carries a changing selection of trunks and boxes. If you are looking for a specific size or finish, we may be able to source it or recommend a suitable alternative from our current range.
Shipping is available throughout the UK and internationally. Each piece is packed with care to ensure it arrives in good condition, and we are available to discuss delivery requirements in more detail if needed.
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