Many years ago, when most long-distance traveling was done by rail or by ship, the steamer trunk was an essential piece of hardware. Today, furniture designers and DIY-ers have figured out that these impressively-built trunks are still sturdy and perfect for storing treasures.

If you are lucky enough to find a few antique steamer trunks at a flea market or thrift shop, they look fabulous stacked up in the living room, office or bedroom as stylish storage spots. For those of us who aren’t as lucky, Restoration Hardware offers these steamer trunk-inspired storage pieces.

Taking their cues from the trunks that countless adventurers once packed all of their worldly possessions into, the furniture series called Richard’s Trunks brings a bit of old-world sophistication into the modern home.

The line of trunk-inspired furniture comes in a variety of finishes, including some metal pieces inspired by vintage aircraft. Other finishes include cigar box-like leather and well-traveled canvas.

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From bedside stands to coffee tables to huge computer armoires, the range includes furniture for every part of the house. If you don’t have the cash to splash out on these designer reproductions, however, you can always check out the flea market and antique store circuit for the real thing.

The brand’s statement about its sudden pivot to steampunk style reads almost like satire, but this is a real letter from CEO Gary Friedman:

“During the collapse of the global economy, we drew inspiration from Picasso’s words and chose not to listen to the conventional wisdom encouraging us to follow the pack and lower quality to reduce prices.  Instead, we saw an opportunity to be liberated, abandoning our past to embrace the future, one that has redefined the essence of who we are. No longer mere retailers of home furnishings, we are now curators of the best historical design the world has to offer… We’ve destroyed the previous iteration of ourselves, clearing the way to express our brand in a never-before-seen fashion. Behold our Fall Collection.  Introducing over 500 new pieces that are a personal expression of a lifestyle that respects the juxtaposition of form and function, past and present, and an environment that is both relaxed yet refined…We invite you to join us this Fall as we unveil an entirely new Restoration Hardware.  Witness what destruction hath wrought. Carpe Diem.”

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