Teach a Tansu New Tricks
Traditionally used for transporting treasures, the tansu is now a classic casegood in today's homes
Tansus, made by specialized craftsmen called Tansuyas, are beautiful storage pieces made with a variety of woods, including elm, cedar and pine. Originally, these pieces were used from the 17th century to the early 20th century as mobile storage, transporting everything from clothes to documents. Today, tansus serve as stationary pieces in the home. They can look modern, traditional or eclectic, and often are great conversation starters. Their beautiful ironwork and various compartments add texture to any room.
When I lived and worked in Tokyo, I would stumble upon small flea markets where local sellers sold their wares. It was at one of these flea markets that I bought my first tansu. I didn't have enough cash on hand, and the sweet Japanese woman insisted that I just mail it to her. I did, and she delivered it to my small apartment. I still have that tansu, 15 years later, and treasure that memory each time I walk past it.
Read on to take a look at how Houzz designers are using these classic pieces in today's interiors.
When I lived and worked in Tokyo, I would stumble upon small flea markets where local sellers sold their wares. It was at one of these flea markets that I bought my first tansu. I didn't have enough cash on hand, and the sweet Japanese woman insisted that I just mail it to her. I did, and she delivered it to my small apartment. I still have that tansu, 15 years later, and treasure that memory each time I walk past it.
Read on to take a look at how Houzz designers are using these classic pieces in today's interiors.
This tansu serves as extra storage in this master bathroom.
This large tansu makes a great focal point in this master bedroom. The detail and texture of this piece is so interesting that you only need a few things to complete the vignette. A bonsai, sculpture and a simple bowl anchor the art in this room.
A gorgeous, double-height tansu looks as if it were built for this room's design. It acts as a sideboard to the dining area, and the storage possibilities are endless. Three simple pendants hang over the dining table, adding to the minimalist Japanese aesthetic.
This tansu feels modern with its simple lines and minimal details. This room's designer cleverly used a monochromatic palette as a great backdrop for art.
This is a classic step tansu that would fit with any style. I love to float these pieces with the tall end against a wall, as they make great room dividers. The graduated steps allow for display opportunities.
Here's a classic tansu configuration of long drawers with a locked compartment in the lower right-hand corner. The locked areas are where valuables were kept when these pieces were used in transport. A blue and white Japanese plate rounds out this traditional vignette.
This double-height tansu serves as a freestanding cabinet in this kitchen — an example of a tansu in a modern, pared-down aesthetic.
More:
Global Icons: The Apothecary Chest
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More:
Global Icons: The Apothecary Chest
6 Great New Uses for a Vintage Dresser
12 Ways to Use a Good Old Armoire