It's got quite a lot of damage so it needs a little TLC but I have a plan to try to turn it into an outdoors storage/bench/hidden cooler piece (inspired by this dresser turned cooler).
As for the mystery, the trunk is locked and we don't have the key. This thing could have Jimmy Hoffa in it! Alert Geraldo.
I'm a little stuck on exactly what sort of decorative treatment to give it b/c of the rosette detail. If it didn't have that detail, I would go with an industrial look considering its function but its not to be. Any ideas?
I have no real concrete ideas, but you have absolutely got to put some brass on it and go Steampunk!
ReplyDeleteHmmmm...steampunk is a pretty awesome idea. It doesn't really go with the rest of my backyard but its just a cool idea in general. Maybe I need a time machine cooler :)
DeleteIt looks like an old cedar chest. I like the brass/Steampunk idea! Distressed black with some of the original showing through would be cool. Here is advice on getting it open or google "cedar chest lock picking": http://www.ehow.com/how_7581299_unlock-1949-cedar-chest-key.html
ReplyDeleteThanks so much for the link. I'm not sure I want to spend the money on a locksmith to open it since I don't need to lock it again but it would be nice not to damage it in the process.
DeleteCan't wait to see what you do with it. You ARE amazing!
ReplyDeleteMy stomach turned when I saw this. This past January, my family lost two young children, Lexi and Sean Munroe, when they tragically suffocated in an old hope chest. Lane recalled these deathtraps and it is illegal to sell them, unless the lock has been removed. Please be careful, Stefanie. Tina
ReplyDeleteOh what a terrible tragedy. So sorry for your loss.
DeleteThank you for the warning but once I get the lock open, it won't be usable again so no worries there.
Good find and glad you are using inspiration from one of your own postings! Can't wait to see how it turns out.
ReplyDeleteI would stick with your industrial idea by adding a metal top and maybe corners and keeping the rough wood, floral detail and all, for the body of the piece. Result, a cool and unique industrial/rustic chic look.
ReplyDeleteBeing from R.I. I'm familiar with the tragedy that tyzzy mentioned and to her my deepest sympathy.
ReplyDeleteA lot of old chests like this have the hinges exposed on the back of the chest. I've had to remove the hinges open a locked chest before. I know you don't plan to keep the lock on the chest, but for those that do - Lane (and likely other companies) offer free replacement locks that don't allow children to lock themselves in. The new locks have to be depressed from the outside when the lid closes in order to lock
ReplyDeleteLovely! I'd have looked like that little ol' ant trying to move that rubber tree plant but I'd gotten that baby home too. :D
ReplyDeleteCan't wait to see what you do with it.
I don't know where the rest of my reply went...lost in the web.
DeleteBut how horrible for the families and babies lost in such a way.
A soft close hinge would be a good idea too.
Thank you,Stefanie and Naz.
ReplyDeleteWhat about making it a two seater, with cushions, but hollow out the middle portion and use it as a planter.
ReplyDeletesuch a lucky find! I'd use it outside--and find out what is inside and tell us!!
ReplyDeleteTwo tone with some custom cushions for the top-- def. bold colors! Such a wonderful find!
ReplyDeleteI'm very curious to see what treasure is locked inside. Please share that with us, once you have opened it. And I love to see what you will make of it.
ReplyDelete(I'm new to this blog, but I intent to keep visiting regularly)