A wicker storage trunk coffee table offers more than just extra storage—it’s a unique design piece that brings warmth, texture, and versatility into your living space. Whether you’re working with a compact apartment or a spacious boho-style home, this multifunctional furniture item blends both style and practicality effortlessly. Unlike traditional coffee tables, wicker trunks introduce a handcrafted, organic look while doubling as hidden storage for blankets, books, or everyday essentials.
Plain Wicker Storage Trunk Coffee Table Before Styling
But how do you style one so it doesn’t look like a storage box in the middle of your room?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 smart and stylish ways to transform your wicker storage trunk into a functional coffee table. From layering textures and choosing the right tray to adding visual balance with soft decor, these ideas are designed for real homes—and real life.
Add a Tray to Define the Space
Functional Styling of Wicker Storage Trunk Coffee Table with Basket and Books
One of the easiest ways to elevate your wicker storage trunk coffee table is by adding a tray. It instantly defines the surface area, brings structure to your decor, and makes the wicker storage trunk coffee table look more intentional—less like a storage box and more like a curated centerpiece.
Choose a tray that contrasts in texture or color with the wicker storage trunk. For example, a ceramic or matte black metal tray creates visual interest against a natural rattan weave, while a reclaimed wood tray keeps the look earthy and organic. If your style leans coastal or boho, consider a round woven tray in a slightly different pattern for a layered effect.
Place 2–3 key items inside the tray to avoid clutter—think a scented candle, a stack of books, or a small vase with dried florals. This grouping technique not only grounds your items visually but also keeps the top of the storage trunk wicker clean and organized.
Expert Tip: If your wicker trunk coffee table has a slightly uneven surface, use a tray with small legs or a firm base to keep items level and stable.
By anchoring your decor with a tray, you signal function and style—turning your wicker trunk with lid into a centerpiece that feels both lived-in and polished.
Use Natural Textures and Layers
Layered Styling with Books and Textiles on Wicker Storage Trunk Coffee Table
If you want your wicker storage trunk coffee table to feel warm, inviting, and visually rich, layering it with natural textures is key. Textiles like linen runners, cotton throws, or handwoven placemats not only soften the hard edges of the trunk but also add depth and dimension to your decor.
Start by placing a lightweight fabric runner lengthwise over the top of your wicker storage trunk. Choose neutral or earthy tones like ivory, sand, or muted olive to blend seamlessly with the natural fiber. This helps visually “anchor” the wicker storage trunk coffee table in the space, especially if it sits on a hardwood or tiled floor.
For a cozier look, drape a small throw blanket partially over one side—this works beautifully with a large wicker storage trunk, giving it a relaxed, layered effect. Add a textured cushion or a woven basket beside it to build contrast and reinforce the handmade aesthetic.
In addition to elevating style, this layered approach helps protect your wicker trunk with lid from scratches or surface wear—especially if you use the trunk daily or have kids and pets around.
Styling Tip: Mix materials—combine a gauze fabric with a jute tray or a rustic wood accent—to create that lived-in, effortlessly curated look.
By using layers, your storage trunk wicker transforms from a simple piece of furniture into a tactile, mood-setting focal point.
Incorporate Decorative Objects
Once you’ve established a base with layers or a tray, it’s time to bring personality to your wicker storage trunk coffee table using curated decorative objects. This is where your trunk goes from functional to fabulous.
Begin with a rule of three—a classic styling principle. Group objects of varying heights, shapes, and textures together to create visual balance. For example, pair a candle with a stack of vintage books and a small ceramic vase. This trio draws the eye while still allowing space for the natural beauty of the wicker trunk to shine.
If you’re working with a vintage wicker trunk or an antique wicker trunk, lean into timeless accents like brass accessories, old-world books, or a distressed lantern. These elements complement the aged charm of the piece and give your space a sense of history.
For a more contemporary touch, consider sculptural decor such as matte-finish objects, minimalist planters, or a bold coffee table book. This styling works especially well if your wicker trunks and chests are surrounded by modern furnishings—adding contrast without clashing.
Pro Tip: Stick to a cohesive color palette (e.g., natural tones + black or beige + sage green) to ensure your setup feels intentional, not cluttered.
By integrating carefully chosen decor, your wicker storage trunk becomes a design focal point—blending function, form, and your personal style.
Style Around It with Soft Furnishings
A beautifully styled wicker storage trunk coffee table doesn’t exist in isolation—it thrives when integrated into the surrounding space. The easiest way to create harmony is to use soft furnishings that echo the trunk’s natural texture and tone.
Start by anchoring the trunk with a rug underneath. A low-pile wool rug or handwoven jute piece helps define the coffee table zone, especially in open-concept rooms. If your large wicker trunk sits in front of a sofa, use throw pillows or a matching ottoman nearby in similar earth-tone fabrics like linen, cotton, or bouclé.
In smaller rooms, balance the wicker storage trunk coffee table visually with nearby furnishings. For example, place a wicker trunk between two armchairs or next to a love seat. It functions like a traditional coffee table but with added warmth, thanks to its woven surface and organic material.
If you’re working with a huge wicker trunk, treat it as a centerpiece. Use muted drapery and minimal furniture to let the trunk lead the design narrative. Pair it with a neutral couch and soft lighting to create a calm, cozy atmosphere perfect for lounging or hosting.
Design Tip: Choose textiles and accessories that complement the tone of your storage trunk wicker, rather than match it exactly. The variation adds dimension and keeps the look fresh.
By styling the area around your wicker trunks, you reinforce their role in the room—not just as storage, but as a soft, stylish anchor that ties the space together.
To complete the look of your wicker storage trunk coffee table, connect it visually to its surroundings by incorporating wall art or natural greenery. This final layer of styling adds height, color, and dimension—turning your trunk into a cohesive focal point within the room.
Start by looking at the vertical space behind or near the trunk. If it’s placed in front of a blank wall, hang a framed art print, rattan mirror, or minimalist canvas above to create a sense of balance. Choose artwork that mirrors the trunk’s tone or theme—neutral palettes, botanical prints, or hand-drawn line art pair beautifully with wicker trunks and chests.
Next, soften the corners by placing a potted plant nearby. A fiddle leaf fig, monstera, or snake plant introduces height and movement, while smaller tabletop greenery—like eucalyptus in a vase—can be placed directly on the trunk. This works especially well if you’re using a wicker trunk with lid, as the smooth top allows for stable styling.
In brighter spaces or boho interiors, match your wicker storage trunk coffee table with hanging planters or macrame wall hangings for an effortless, earthy feel. These additions frame the coffee table visually and ground it within your interior theme.
Greenery Tip: Use woven baskets as plant holders to echo the trunk’s texture, creating a unified and intentional design statement.
With the right wall accents and greenery, your wicker storage trunk coffee table won’t just function well—it will look thoughtfully curated from every angle.
Bonus Tips: Keep Your Wicker Trunk Coffee Table Practical
While styling is important, keeping your wicker storage trunk coffee table functional is just as essential—especially if you’re using it daily. Below are a few expert tips to help you strike the perfect balance between beauty and practicality:
Use felt or cork pads under decorative items to avoid marking the surface.
Avoid overcrowding the top—leave some breathing room for visual balance.
Protect against spills by placing items on trays or washable mats.
If your trunk gets moved often, consider adding discreet furniture sliders underneath.
Periodically dust or vacuum the wicker trunk to maintain its natural look and prevent buildup.
Whether you’re styling for a photo shoot or everyday life, small touches like these keep your space fresh, organized, and livable.
Style With Purpose and Personality
A wicker storage trunk coffee table is more than a piece of furniture—it’s an opportunity to blend storage, style, and storytelling in one compact format. With the five styling ideas above, you can turn your trunk into a curated focal point that enhances both form and function in your space.
From layering textiles and adding trays, to styling with greenery and surrounding soft furnishings, these simple adjustments bring life and warmth to your interior. Whether you’re working with a vintage wicker trunk, a large wicker trunk, or something entirely unique, your coffee table setup can reflect your aesthetic and meet your everyday needs.
Ready to Style Yours?
If you’re feeling inspired, explore our full collection of handcrafted wicker trunks and chests at ChumDecor.com. We offer styles that suit boho, minimalist, coastal, and modern homes—each piece made with care from natural materials.
→ Visit our Amazon Storefront or Etsy Shop to shop our best-selling wicker storage trunk coffee tables.
For more real-home styling inspiration, follow us on Instagram @chumdecor.vn—and don’t forget to tag us when you style your own!
