Welcome to the second installment of the “But I Need It” series. Check out the first one in case you missed it. This is a series for the design-obsessed (probably all of you ;)) about things that are on our Pinterest boards that we’re working hard on. Today, I am going to talk about wooden storage cabinets that look like pieces of art. Obviously, my Pinterest feed is full of wooden items, but this really is the best stuff, so no complaints here. And look, I love a simple and classic storage cabinet, dresser, etc., but when I see pieces like this (mostly vintage), I yearn for more uniqueness in my furniture. Of course the main issue is affordability as making pieces like this is not cheap. But if nothing else, I hope this post is wonderful inspiration, inspiration to get the creative juices flowing, and hey, maybe even the start of a DIY project. Lyrics of…
I saw this storage cabinet a few years ago, and my jaw was on the floor. Wouldn’t say I’m a polka dot person, but I am a lover of shapes (I know it sounds confusing, but it’s different for me). Now, this piece sold for more than $18,000. Yes, I meant to put that zero…so at this time, my tax bracket does not allow this type of furniture purchase. But what I do have is some carpentry skills, a can-do attitude (even if it falls short sometimes), and the kicker… a dad who knows how to build things. However, I always help. This is a luxury I don’t take lightly!
This cabinet was my creation, inspired by an old cabinet that now resides in my living room. It’s obviously not the same, but it rocks the fire, and I love that it looks special and unique to my home (of course, I know circle cutouts are on trend, but this piece is one of a kind to me). I’m telling this story, I guess, to legitimize my love for what I’m about to talk about and to show you that you too can get your hands dirty 🙂
geometric storage cabinets
It was this next part that sparked the idea for this post. If me and my dad could make it, I’d call him right now! I guess this is a little out of our wheelhouse, ha. Anyway, it’s pretty incredible that if those 3D panels were flattened out, it would still be a beautiful piece, but would look very simple. But with 3D geometric element, it is absolutely heart-touching. This photo is definitely in my dreams.
scalene geometric wood cabinet | Shutter Ash Wood Media Console
Now, there aren’t new and shoppable pieces in every category in this post, but these two also came up on my Pinterest, and they fit this look perfectly. The cabinet fronts are so unexpected and nice. I can really see them in any type of home that wants to add some edge and eclecticism.
painted storage cabinets
that is so nice!!!? Talk about art reunion. I like how sharp the shapes of the painted parts are while the scenes themselves are soft and calm. The works of this artist are unreal. I mean, look at the texture he created on the wood. Although I’m not saying this kind of art can be replicated, maybe it will free you up to think about how you can personalize your own pieces in your home.
There are no words. This Swedish storage cabinet is very special. I’m not one of those people who necessarily wants wild flowers as a motif in their home, but for this, I’d happily make an exception. Simply amazing. Plus, how cute are the semicircular plates and round knobs? This is a design feature we can at least replicate and add to our own cabinets.
I don’t think I can talk about painted storage cabinets without including BDDW. Another absolute dream brand to have in my home. The details are surreal, and the flowers feel both modern and nostalgic. Plus, I think their hardware might be my all-time favorite.
Chiodino sideboard by Giorgia Bevilacqua and Marika Lamarina for Fabro Aredi | cute painted sideboard
Here are two more easily shoppable pieces! The floral design is actually made from wooden pegs, so not exactly painted, but I felt like it was in the same spirit. It is very special and in the right home, would be incredible. Pictured again is something I would like to put in the nursery as soon as possible. It’s incredibly precious, the colors are amazing, and I love the striped base frame. Add to Cart!
3D Block Storage Cabinet
More shapes and blocks! My favorite:) These are actually a set of three small storage shelves from the 70’s. I just think the way all the rectangular and square wood pieces are laid out is a simple idea and creates something special.
It’s a little more complicated, and I know I’m overusing the word special, but oh my god, how can I not do the same with these? The circles added to the center of the cabinet door are giving me big soulful eyes.
Multi-Combination Cabinet | Lego 3 Drawer Sideboard
Here are some shoppable options! Simple but still very cool, and gives you the 3D geometric style of wood on wood. Light wood can be used as one piece, or you can buy more to make a larger cabinet. The circle front sideboard is such a great statement piece that really impresses me 🙂
“Paneled” storage cabinets
I don’t think “paneled” is entirely the right descriptor for this range, but please bear with me. Let’s talk about this exquisite piece of furniture. I can’t believe this is the 1930’s. It’s really just an acknowledgment of the naivety of my design history. It looks very modern to me, but also has the most perfect amount of patina. The ingredients and the way they are used can literally get me emotional. Y’all, this is so special.
It’s far more classically paneled 🙂 I like the tone of the pine, I like the circles on either end, and I like that the manufacturer would “camouflage” the knobs with two middle circles. It’s not fancy, but it’s incredible.
Here’s a modern take on this range of styles by Sarah Sherman Samuel! I believe she worked with her father on this square door detail he was designing for the house. Then she added it to her line with Lulu and Georgia, and I love it. I wish I had the space for it!
Multiple Drawer Storage Cabinets
Another thing I love on any type of storage cabinet or dresser are different sized drawers and doors! This adds a lot of interest and playfulness. How incredible is this excerpt above??
This is also from the 30’s but in a more primitive style. But don’t you love the mix of doors and drawers and their different sizes? Plus, the circles are an unexpected but fun detail.
It’s a bar cabinet, but what attracted me to it is that little random drawer! Whenever I see a drawer like this, I immediately fall in love with it, no questions asked. This excites me 🙂
This was a storage cabinet from CB2 that is no longer available, I loved it when I first saw it. CB2 usually takes more risks in terms of the styles they sell, but it always gives me hope when big box stores take a chance on really cool and unique pieces like this.
rolling shutter cabinet | Sapority Bouleto Cabinet
Well, both of these are available for purchase, but they will cost a fortune…sorry! I really wanted you all to see them. The rolling shutter cabinet doesn’t exactly fit into this category, but it’s too good not to include. At first glance it doesn’t seem too expensive, but it’s in Italy, so shipping probably won’t be cheap. The second cabinet is quite a showstopper, and should be made more of that size because it is truly stunning!
Raw Wood Storage Cabinets
I love wood in all its forms, but there is something about virtually untouched, unstained and uncoated wood that is truly stunning. Of course, as long as it’s done well, like these small storage cabinets above.
Or this one! The two different woods used (one for the frame and one for the drawers) add such a subtle but wonderful dimension. Also, can you handle the “knob”?? Give them more cutouts!
I know. This is amazing. That wooden design with its delicate curves around the legs is simplicity and perfection at its finest.
A tall vintage storage cabinet 🙂
I want this cabinet bad! I mean, get out of here with that one door and its innately cool edge. One pin I saw said it was a 1950s Italian wardrobe, and that sounds about right to me. This is another example of how it doesn’t take a lot of crazy details to make something insanely incredible.
So that’s it for today’s beautiful and inspiring design content. I hope your hearts have stopped as many times as mine have (in a good way) and that you’ll be in a happier mood than when you started. Something new in terms of design, are you all liking it? lets chat!
I love you, it means it.
Opening image credit: Creative direction by Emily Henderson | By Design & Styling Emily Bowser | photo by sarah ligoria-trump | From: New Reveal: This Organic, Punchy Bedroom Might Be Our New Favorite Makeover
