Understanding Hope Chest
The hope chest tradition dates back to at least the 15th century in Europe, where a "dower chest" or "marriage chest" was an essential part of a bride's preparation for married life. In America, the tradition became deeply rooted in Pennsylvania Dutch, Amish, and Mennonite communities, where elaborately painted or carved blanket chests were cherished family heirlooms. The Lane Company, founded in 1912 in Virginia, popularized the modern cedar-lined hope chest and marketed it as a rite of passage for young women. Cedar lining was practical — the aromatic oils in red cedar naturally repel moths and insects, protecting stored textiles. By the mid-20th century, Lane "Cedar Chests" were ubiquitous in American homes. While the bridal tradition has faded, hope chests remain valued as versatile storage furniture and family heirlooms.
Hope Chest in Interior Design
Hope chests have found new purpose in modern interiors as functional and decorative storage. At the foot of a bed, a hope chest serves as a blanket storage bench — one of the most practical bedroom furniture pieces. In living rooms, a vintage or antique hope chest works as a coffee table alternative with hidden storage. In entryways, it provides seating and a place to store seasonal items. Vintage Lane cedar chests are particularly sought after by mid-century and vintage design enthusiasts. Modern interpretations come in every style: clean-lined walnut chests for modern bedrooms, whitewashed chests for coastal rooms, and painted chests for cottage and farmhouse spaces. The key to styling a hope chest is treating it as furniture, not just storage — top it with a tray, folded throw, and a decorative object or two.
