Storage Trunks: Size, Capacity and Lid Access

A storage trunk can fit the room and still be awkward to use if its opening is blocked or its interior is too small for your belongings. Start with what you want to store, then compare the closed footprint, height and access. The two Keiichi examples below show why a long bedroom trunk and a compact bedside trunk need different planning.

Compare two trunk sizes

These are the listed external dimensions when closed. They describe the space occupied by the furniture, not the usable storage capacity.

The large trunk is 78 cm wider but 10 cm lower. The narrower bedside model saves width beside a bed; it does not project any less into the room. Compare its height with your mattress and check that you can reach the top comfortably. For the long trunk, measure the bed frame's full width rather than the mattress alone.

Test the footprint in your room

Use paper or masking tape to mark the outside edges on the floor. Include skirting boards, door swings and any nearby wardrobe drawers. Walk through the space and make the bed with that outline in place.

For example, a measured 110 cm gap between the foot of a bed and the furniture opposite would leave 62 cm after allowing for a 48 cm-deep trunk. That is a calculation, not a recommended walkway width: check whether the remaining space works for your movement and for opening the surrounding furniture.

Check what will fit inside

Neither of these listings provides internal compartment measurements. Do not multiply the outside dimensions to estimate usable litres: the base, sides and lid take up space. For folded bedding, measure a representative stack as you would store it, including its height. For rigid boxes, measure the widest points and any handles.

Before ordering for a specific item, ask for the internal width, depth and usable height, plus the clear opening. A compartment can be wide enough inside while its opening makes a large rigid object difficult to insert. Also confirm whether any lining, hinges or supports reduce the space where your items will sit.

Allow for the lid and daily access

Check the lid's opening direction, maximum open height and any space needed behind the trunk. Those measurements are not supplied for these examples, so do not assume they can open fully against a wall or beneath a shelf. Plan where you will stand and how you will lift items out.

Objects placed on top will need moving when you open the trunk. If you want to keep a lamp or display in place and reach storage frequently, a drawer or door design may suit your routine better. Handles and a flat top do not by themselves establish suitability for carrying a loaded trunk or using it as seating.

Before you order

Confirm the intended use, any load limits, assembly requirements and packaged dimensions for your chosen model. Check the delivery route through doors and around turns. Reclaimed wood can vary in grain and markings, so use the photographs to understand the finish without expecting an identical pattern.

Explore the storage trunks collection to compare other layouts. If you prefer open access for everyday throws, our blanket basket guide covers openings and textures without a trunk lid.