The linen press is a beautiful piece of antique furniture that has stood the test of time. Originally, they were used to store table linens, clothing and other textiles, but their popularity has continued because they offer such wonderful additional storage. They are also sometimes called "housekeeper's cupboards" when done in a more rustic style. Linen presses are very often painted, but they can be found in gorgeous woods, as well. Although it may look like an armoire at first glance, what differentiates a linen press is that it has doors on top and drawers on the bottom, whereas an armoire has doors the length of the piece.
Phoebe believes linen presses have replaced armoires as the TV-holder of choice. It is simple to modify the top portion by adding hinges, allowing the doors to swing back flat along the sides. Another easy change is to add an interior shelf to raise the TV height. Linen presses also have the added bonus of drawers in the bottom to provide storage (we just cannot seem to get enough of pretty storage options, can we?).
A few quick ideas for how a linen press might be useful in one of your rooms: In the dining room, it would be perfect to store extra table linens, china, glassware, candles, silver and other odds and ends needed for entertaining. In the living room, extra throws, boardgames, books, music equipment, DVDs, of course TVs, and even a magazine collection could all find a home here. What about the home office? Not only could you pack up the entire thing in a linen press, but what about storing office supplies, crafting materials, wrapping supplies and files you don't access often? The bedroom is easy: all of those extra shoes, bags, accessories, off-season clothing ... you name it ... essentially everything we buy too much of! And while I don't have children yet, I see this as a beauty of an addition to a playroom. What a wonderful piece to quickly throw in all of those toys just before unexpected company stops by!
Pictured here are some of the linen presses we have at Mrs. Howard. Who can resist?
