The Ultimate Guide to Decorating & Utilizing Your Cedar Chest: Timeless Style & Smart Storage
A cedar chest is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a versatile treasure that can add both beauty and functionality to any room in your home. Perfect for storing blankets, pillows, cherished keepsakes, or seasonal items, a cedar chest can also serve as a stunning accent piece, reflecting your personal style and enhancing your home’s aesthetic.
With a touch of creativity and a few simple ideas, you can easily transform your cedar chest from a plain storage box into a focal point that exudes charm and elegance. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy, rustic vibe, a chic modern look, or a timeless traditional feel, there are countless ways to integrate this classic item into your decor.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore innovative decorating ideas to give your cedar chest a fresh look, alongside clever ways to utilize its practical features throughout your home. These easy-to-follow suggestions will help you breathe new life into your chest, making it a beautiful and integral part of your living space.
The Rich History and Enduring Appeal of Cedar Chests
Cedar chests boast a fascinating history, deeply rooted in the tradition of preserving valuable belongings and cherished keepsakes. These sturdy wooden chests, often crafted from aromatic red cedar, were initially indispensable for storing linens, clothing, and other important textiles. The unique properties of cedar wood – specifically its natural oils – provided powerful protection against common household pests like moths, as well as mold and mildew. This made cedar chests the ideal choice for safeguarding blankets, clothing, and precious family heirlooms across generations.
Beyond their practical utility, cedar chests evolved into symbols of heritage and continuity. Many families passed them down, often filled with treasures and memories, turning them into beloved family heirlooms themselves. This tradition has cemented their status not just as functional storage units, but as beautiful, meaningful pieces of furniture that tell a story. Their enduring charm and natural beauty continue to make them a popular and sought-after item in homes today, blending timeless design with practical benefits.
Why Embellish Your Cedar Chest? Enhancing Function with Style
While the primary function of a cedar chest has always been storage, overlooking its decorative potential would be a missed opportunity. Decorating a cedar chest isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s about integrating this classic piece seamlessly into your existing decor or transforming it into a standout statement. A well-decorated cedar chest can transition from a simple storage box to a vibrant focal point, a comfortable extra seat, or a stylish table.
By personalizing your cedar chest, you can ensure it complements your room’s style perfectly, whether you want it to subtly blend in or boldly announce its presence. This transformation adds visual appeal, making a functional item beautiful, and allowing your cherished chest to continue its legacy in a modern context. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to update your space and express your creativity.
Creative Decorating Ideas for Your Cedar Chest
Transforming your cedar chest into a decorative masterpiece can be a simple and enjoyable project. With just a few creative touches, you can turn a plain, functional piece of furniture into something truly unique and beautiful that reflects your personal style. Here are some inspiring decorating ideas to help you get the most out of your cedar chest:
1. A Fresh Coat of Paint: A Canvas for Transformation
One of the most dramatic ways to update your cedar chest is with a fresh coat of paint. This simple change can completely redefine its character and ensure it matches your room’s decor perfectly. For a brighter, more open feel, especially in smaller spaces, opt for light colors like soft whites, creamy off-whites, or delicate pastels such as mint green or sky blue.
If you prefer a more sophisticated and dramatic ambiance, rich, darker hues like navy blue, deep charcoal gray, forest green, or even a glossy black can create a striking statement. For those drawn to a rustic or vintage aesthetic, chalk paint is an excellent choice. It provides a beautiful matte, velvety finish that’s ideal for creating a shabby-chic or farmhouse style. To enhance this look, consider lightly distressing the paint after it dries. Gently sand the edges, corners, and any raised details to reveal hints of the original wood underneath, giving it an authentically worn and cherished appearance.
2. Add Decorative Hardware: The Jewelry of Furniture
Never underestimate the power of new hardware to elevate the look of your cedar chest. Swapping out old or plain handles, hinges, or locks for something more modern or stylistically aligned with your decor can make a significant impact. For a timeless, vintage feel, antique brass, polished gold, or oil-rubbed bronze handles are excellent choices. These finishes can add warmth and a touch of elegance.
If your style leans more contemporary, sleek black, brushed nickel, or polished chrome handles can provide a minimalist and sophisticated update. Beyond simple pulls, explore decorative knobs or ornate handles that truly reflect your personal taste – perhaps intricately designed vintage-inspired pieces, elegant crystal knobs, or streamlined metal pulls for an industrial edge. This small change can completely transform the chest’s personality.
3. Add Cushions or Pillows: Comfort Meets Style
One of the most effective ways to enhance both the style and functionality of your cedar chest is by adding cushions or decorative pillows to its top. If your chest has a flat lid, it can easily be repurposed into comfortable extra seating, perfect for an entryway, living room, or bedroom. Choose a custom-fit cushion in a color and pattern that complements your room’s existing palette.
Alternatively, a collection of large, plush throw pillows can create a wonderfully inviting and cozy look. These are especially effective in living rooms or bedrooms, making the chest feel like a natural extension of your seating arrangement. For a stylish touch, select fabrics that either match your room’s colors for a cohesive look or provide a pleasing contrast, adding visual interest. If you prefer a more rustic, farmhouse, or traditional feel, fabrics like plaid, floral, stripes, or textured linen can add warmth, depth, and character to your space.
4. Use Decorative Items: Curated Displays
Transform your cedar chest into an eye-catching display platform for your favorite decorative items. This allows it to serve as a functional piece of art within your room. Consider placing a beautiful vase filled with fresh flowers or a lush potted plant on top to bring life and color to the space. A stylish tray holding an arrangement of scented candles, a stack of interesting books, or a small sculpture can create an elegant vignette.
Figurines, small artwork, or unique curios can also add personality and charm. The key to successful styling is balance: avoid overcrowding the surface. Instead, choose one or two prominent items that stand out, complemented by a few smaller pieces, to create a harmonious focal point. Incorporating natural elements like potted succulents or air plants can infuse a touch of greenery and a calming, organic vibe into your space.
5. Use a Stencil or Decals: Personalized Artistry
For a truly custom and artistic touch, consider using stencils or vinyl decals to adorn your cedar chest. Stenciling a design onto the front, sides, or even the lid can give your chest a unique, bespoke appearance. You can choose from an array of patterns, including delicate floral motifs, bold geometric shapes, intricate mandalas, or even inspiring quotes that resonate with you. Stencils are readily available at most craft stores and are relatively easy to apply, offering a professional-looking finish with a bit of patience.
If you’re looking for a simpler, less permanent option, vinyl decals are an excellent alternative. These come in countless designs, colors, and sizes, ranging from intricate patterns to whimsical graphics. They are designed for easy application – simply peel and stick – and can often be removed without damaging the underlying surface, offering flexibility for future style changes. Both stencils and decals allow you to inject a strong dose of personality and artistic flair into your cedar chest.
Practical Uses of Cedar Chests in the Bedroom
In the bedroom, cedar chests are incredibly versatile, extending their utility far beyond traditional storage. Their inherent qualities make them ideal for preserving certain items while also offering practical solutions for daily living. Here are some of their most effective uses:
Storage for Bedding: The Ultimate Fabric Sanctuary
Cedar chests are perfectly suited for storing extra blankets, quilts, sheets, and pillows. The aromatic cedar wood provides natural protection against dust, dirt, and, crucially, insects like moths. The natural oils in the cedar help to preserve the fabric, keeping your linens fresh, clean, and ready for use whenever needed. This not only keeps your bedroom organized but also safeguards your valuable bedding investment.
Additional Seating: A Stylish Bench
As mentioned in our decorating tips, a cedar chest topped with a comfortable cushion or a few plush pillows instantly transforms into a stylish and practical seating option. Place it at the foot of your bed for a convenient spot to sit while getting dressed, putting on shoes, or simply to relax and read. It’s a wonderful way to add functionality without taking up additional floor space with another chair.
Nightstand Alternative: Bedside Convenience
For smaller bedrooms where space is at a premium, a cedar chest can serve as a surprisingly chic and functional nightstand. Position it beside your bed to hold a lamp, your current reading material, a glass of water, or other bedside essentials. The ample storage inside can keep books, magazines, or personal items neatly tucked away, ensuring your bedside area remains clutter-free and organized.
Clever Storage Solutions Using Cedar Chests Around Your Home
Beyond the bedroom, cedar chests offer a multitude of clever storage solutions, making them truly versatile pieces of furniture for various areas of your home. Their protective qualities and generous capacity can be leveraged for diverse organizational needs:
Seasonal Storage: Protecting Your Off-Season Items
Utilize your cedar chest to neatly store seasonal items that aren’t currently in use. This could include bulky winter coats and sweaters during the warmer months, cherished holiday decorations, or light summer clothes during winter. The natural pest-repellent properties of cedar make it an ideal choice for long-term storage, ensuring your seasonal garments and decor emerge fresh and undamaged when you need them next.
Toy Storage: Taming Clutter with Charm
In a playroom, child’s bedroom, or even a living room, a cedar chest can be repurposed as a charming and effective toy box. It provides ample space to keep toys out of sight and neatly organized, helping to maintain a tidy environment. The robust construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of play, while its classic design adds a touch of enduring charm to the room.
Clothing Storage: Off-Season Garment Care
Cedar chests are superb for storing off-season clothing, particularly items that are susceptible to damage from pests or dampness. Think delicate wool sweaters, cashmere scarves, or heirloom blankets. Storing them in a cedar chest protects them from potential damage and keeps them fresh. You can confidently store these items away, knowing they will be in excellent condition when it’s time to retrieve them.
Unique and Innovative Ways to Repurpose Cedar Chests
The timeless design and sturdy construction of cedar chests lend themselves to truly innovative repurposing. With a little imagination, these versatile pieces can be transformed into unexpected and delightful additions to your home. Here are some truly unique ideas:
Pet Bed: A Cozy Retreat for Your Furry Friend
Give an old cedar chest a heartwarming new life by transforming it into a luxurious and cozy pet bed. Simply open the lid or remove it (if safe to do so), add a soft, comfortable cushion or a plush blanket inside, and your beloved cat or dog will have a stylish and incredibly comfortable spot to curl up and sleep. Ensure adequate ventilation and consider sanding any rough edges to guarantee your pet’s safety and comfort.
Bar Cabinet: Entertaining in Style
Repurpose a cedar chest into a sophisticated and compact home bar cabinet. Store your collection of liquor bottles, glassware, and cocktail accessories neatly inside. The top surface can then be used to display an elegant serving tray, an ice bucket, or other bar essentials, creating a functional and attractive home bar that’s perfect for entertaining. This adds a touch of vintage charm to any gathering.
Garden Storage: Outdoor Organization
For your outdoor spaces, a cedar chest can serve as a fantastic storage unit for gardening tools, bags of seeds, small pots, or other outdoor essentials. While cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, it’s wise to ensure the chest is placed in a sheltered area or treated with a weather-resistant finish if it will be exposed to the elements, keeping your gardening items safe and dry.
Repurposing Cedar Chests for Other Rooms in Your Home
Cedar chests are remarkably adaptable and can be brilliantly repurposed to serve various functions in almost any room of your house, extending their usefulness far beyond the bedroom. Here are a few creative ideas for integrating them into other living spaces:
Living Room: A Stylish Coffee Table with Hidden Storage
In the living room, a cedar chest can be beautifully transformed into a unique and sturdy coffee table. Its robust construction makes it ideal for holding drinks, snacks, magazines, or remote controls. The internal storage space is a significant bonus, providing a discreet place to tuck away blankets, board games, or seasonal decor, helping to keep your living area tidy and organized. To protect the wood, consider placing a glass top or decorative trays on the surface.
Entryway: A Welcoming Bench and Storage Hub
An entryway cedar chest offers a highly practical and inviting solution for managing clutter. It can conveniently store shoes, umbrellas, hats, scarves, and bags, keeping your entrance clear. Additionally, it doubles as a comfortable seating area, making it easier for family members and guests to put on or take off shoes. Dress it up with a cushion and a few throw pillows to create a warm and welcoming first impression.
Bathroom: Elegant Storage for Linens and Toiletries
Even in a bathroom, a cedar chest can be a stylish and functional addition. Use it to store extra towels, washcloths, toiletries, or other bath accessories. The cedar’s natural, pleasant scent can also subtly freshen the air, making it a sophisticated way to keep your bathroom organized while adding a touch of natural elegance. Ensure it’s placed in an area that isn’t directly exposed to excessive moisture to prevent damage.
Choosing the Right Paint for Your Cedar Chest
When you decide to give your cedar chest a painted makeover, selecting the appropriate type of paint is crucial. Cedar wood is distinctive due to its natural oils, which can sometimes bleed through certain paints. Therefore, choosing a paint that adheres well and offers good coverage is essential for a lasting and beautiful finish.
Chalk Paint: Matte Finish and Vintage Charm
Chalk paint remains a highly favored option for painting cedar chests. It’s renowned for its beautiful matte finish and its exceptional ability to adhere to various surfaces, including wood, often without the need for extensive priming or sanding. This makes it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts. Chalk paint effortlessly lends itself to creating vintage, distressed, or shabby-chic looks, making it perfect for those aiming for a rustic or antique aesthetic.
Latex Paint: Durable and Versatile
If you’re seeking a more durable, often slightly glossy or satin finish, latex paint is a reliable option. It’s widely available, comes in an endless array of colors, and offers good resistance to wear and tear. When using latex paint on a cedar chest, it’s highly recommended to apply a quality primer first. A stain-blocking primer is particularly important for cedar to prevent the natural oils from seeping through and discoloring the paint over time, ensuring better adhesion and a more consistent final look.
Wood Stain: Embracing Natural Beauty
For those who appreciate the inherent beauty of the wood grain, a wood stain is an excellent alternative to opaque paint. Stains allow the natural texture and patterns of the cedar to show through while imparting a rich, enhanced color. You can choose from a variety of stain colors, from light golden hues to deep, dark walnuts, to match your decor. A clear topcoat or sealer should be applied after staining to protect the wood and deepen its luster.
Tips for Maintaining and Caring for Your Cedar Chest
Proper maintenance and care are essential to ensure your cedar chest remains a beautiful and functional piece for many years to come. By following these simple tips, you can preserve its natural properties and aesthetic appeal:
- Keep it Dry: Always avoid exposing your cedar chest to excessive moisture or humidity. While cedar has natural resistance to mold and mildew, prolonged exposure to damp conditions can still cause swelling, warping, or damage to the wood and its finish.
- Dust Regularly: Frequent dusting is key to preventing the buildup of grime and particulate matter that can dull the wood and potentially scratch its surface over time. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe down the chest. Avoid abrasive cleaners or harsh chemical sprays, which can strip the finish or damage the natural wood.
- Reapply Cedar Oil: Over many years, the natural aromatic oils in cedar can diminish. To rejuvenate the distinctive scent and maintain the wood’s protective properties (especially its pest-repelling qualities), periodically sand the interior lightly and then reapply a specialized cedar oil. This simple process can significantly extend its effectiveness.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Position your cedar chest away from direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to strong UV rays can cause the wood to fade, bleach, or even crack and dry out over time, compromising both its appearance and structural integrity.
Why Cedar Chests Remain a Classic and Versatile Choice
Cedar chests have stood the test of time, remaining a beloved and favored piece of furniture for generations. Their enduring popularity is a testament to their timeless design, inherent natural beauty, and remarkable practicality. These versatile chests offer far more than just simple storage; they bring a unique blend of charm, warmth, and adaptability to any room they inhabit. From meticulously preserving family heirlooms and seasonal clothing to serving as a stylish coffee table, an inviting entryway bench, or even a cozy pet bed, the potential uses for a cedar chest are truly limitless.
The natural properties of cedar – its delightful aroma and its protective qualities against pests – add an extra layer of value, making it an ideal choice for safeguarding important textiles. With just a dash of creativity and a mindful approach to care, a cedar chest can transcend its traditional role, becoming a highly functional, aesthetically pleasing, and deeply personal piece that fits seamlessly into your home and lifestyle. It’s an investment in both utility and enduring style.
Conclusion
In summary, cedar chests are truly classic pieces of furniture that beautifully combine usefulness with aesthetic appeal. With a rich history rooted in preservation, they continue to be invaluable additions to any home. Decorating a cedar chest offers a fantastic opportunity to personalize it, ensuring it perfectly complements your room’s style, whether through a fresh coat of paint, updated hardware, or cozy cushions. Their incredible versatility allows them to serve multiple purposes in various rooms – from an extra seat or a stylish coffee table to clever storage for clothes, toys, or seasonal items.
The natural scent of cedar and its inherent ability to protect items from pests further enhance its value, making it ideal for safeguarding your most cherished belongings. By following simple maintenance tips, you can ensure your cedar chest remains a beautiful, functional, and treasured part of your home for many years to come. Embrace the charm and practicality of a cedar chest; it’s a timeless piece waiting to be reimagined in your space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cedar chest typically used for?
A cedar chest is primarily used for storing blankets, clothing, linens, and keepsakes. Its natural cedar wood protects these items from pests like moths, as well as mold and mildew, ensuring their long-term preservation.
Why should I decorate my cedar chest?
Decorating your cedar chest allows you to personalize it, making it an attractive accent piece that enhances your room’s decor. It transforms a purely functional item into a stylish statement, adding both visual appeal and character to your home.
How do I properly clean and maintain a cedar chest?
To clean and maintain a cedar chest, dust it regularly with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing it to excessive moisture. To preserve its natural scent and protective qualities, periodically sand the interior lightly and reapply cedar oil. Keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent fading or cracking.
Can a cedar chest be used in rooms other than the bedroom?
Absolutely! A cedar chest is highly versatile. It can be repurposed as a coffee table or extra seating in the living room, a bench with storage in the entryway, or even as a unique storage unit in a bathroom or playroom.
How can I prevent my cedar chest from fading or cracking?
To prevent your cedar chest from fading or cracking, always place it away from direct sunlight, which can cause UV damage over time. Additionally, avoid exposing it to extreme temperature fluctuations or high humidity to preserve the wood’s integrity and finish.