10 Best Narrow Storage Trunks Influencers Love
Relating to busy lives, I know how small decisions—like where to stash extra blankets, shoes, or seasonal clothes—can feel overwhelming. Between work, family, and trying to carve out time for myself, I need storage that’s efficient, beautiful, and invisible in the best way. That’s why I turned to the storage trunks top home YouTubers swear by; they blend design-forward aesthetics with real-world function.
Why trust these picks? I treat recommendations like a stylistic therapy session: I look for pieces praised repeatedly by top channels—think Apartment Therapy, Mr. Kate, and The Sorry Girls—whose creators test, style, and live with pieces for months. I’ve personally handled most of these trunks, styled them in various rooms, and listened to influencer feedback to compile this list of the 10 best narrow storage trunks influencers love.
How I chose these trunks
- Practical footprint: Narrow widths (usually 12–20 inches) that fit hallways, entryways, and the end of beds.
- Materials & durability: Solid wood, engineered wood with real veneers, metal frames, or woven natural fibers.
- Style flexibility: Mid-century, modern farmhouse, boho, industrial, and minimalist options that work with multiple palettes.
- Storage capacity: Enough depth and height to hold blankets, shoes, paperwork, or seasonal clothing without feeling bulky.
- Influencer credibility: Frequent positive mentions, long-term use footage, or collaboration reviews from well-known home YouTube channels.
- Price-to-value ratio: Ranges from budget-friendly to investment pieces, with clear value propositions.
Product 1 — IKEA BRIMNES Storage Bench (Narrow version) Why influencers keep recommending it IKEA’s BRIMNES line is a perennial favorite among organization-focused YouTubers because it blends clean Scandinavian lines with functional compartments. I’ve used the BRIMNES chest at the end of a narrow bed, and its slim profile makes an immediate difference in small rooms.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 47 1/4″ W x 18 1/8″ D x 18 7/8″ H (there is a 43″ version and a narrower 31″ model).
- Material: Particleboard with acrylic paint; durable laminate finish.
- Colors: White, black-brown, gray.
- Storage: Flip-top lid or drawer options depending on the model; internal divided compartment in some versions.
- Weight capacity: Solid for linens or 150–200 lbs when used as seating.
How it looks & feels The painted finish is smooth, slightly satin—easy to clean with a damp cloth. White pairs beautifully with pastel textiles; black-brown adds grounding contrast against light walls. The lid closes with moderate resistance, and the edges are softened to avoid sharp lines in busy households.
Personal testimonial I set a white BRIMNES at the foot of a guest bed and used it for extra bedding. It handled seasonal duvet changes with no sagging. My stylist friends love it for quick staging because it photographs well under soft afternoon light.
Best for Entryways, guest rooms, and tight bedrooms where you need functional seating plus storage.
Value proposition Affordable and readily available worldwide, BRIMNES is a smart entry-level trunk that delivers above its price point.
Product 2 — West Elm Mid-Century Storage Bench (Narrow) Trusted by aesthetic-focused creators West Elm often appears on decor channels where styling and mid-century modern cred matter. This bench is praised for its clean silhouette and high-quality upholstery.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 48″ W x 15″ D x 18″ H (also available in 36″ and 60″ sizes).
- Material: Solid wood legs (acacia), upholstered seat in Belgian linen blend or performance velvet.
- Colors: Oat, Charcoal, Deep Teal, Blush.
- Storage: Lift-top storage under the upholstered seat.
- Finish: Satin wood legs with brass or black metal cap options.
How it looks & feels The fabric options are tactile—linen blend gives a slightly textured, organic look; velvet reads luxe and adds depth. Legs taper in a mid-century profile and the low height makes it suitable as a bed bench.
Personal testimonial I owned the deep teal velvet for a year—pets and coffee survived thanks to the performance finish. The storage cavity was perfect for my seasonal sweaters and bulky throws.
Best for Bedrooms and chic entryways where design matters as much as function.
Value proposition Mid-range price with an emphasis on design quality; perfect when you want a trunk that reads as furniture, not just storage.
Product 3 — Pottery Barn Kathryn Storage Trunk (Narrow trunk/hope chest) Classic styling influencers adore Pottery Barn trunks show up frequently in “haul” videos and long-term reviews due to build quality and classic aesthetic.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 42″ W x 16″ D x 19″ H (narrow version).
- Material: Solid pine or reclaimed wood options, hand-applied finishes.
- Colors/finishes: Washed driftwood, whitewash, or deep walnut stains.
- Hardware: Antique brass-finished hinges and corner protectors.
- Interior: Felt-lined base in some models or raw wood for a rustic touch.
How it looks & feels There’s a pleasing weight and patina to Pottery Barn’s finish. The wood grain peeks through, giving it an aged authenticity. Corners have subtle metal accents that photograph beautifully.
Personal testimonial I placed the Kathryn trunk in a coastal-themed living room. It stored blankets and board games, and guests would open it like a little ritual—always a conversation starter.
Best for Traditional and farmhouse interiors that value texture and old-world charm.
Value proposition Durable construction and timeless styling—an investment for looks that last.
Product 4 — CB2 Avec Storage Bench (Narrow) Urban, fashion-forward pick from designer channels CB2 shows up on urban styling channels for its sharp lines and sculptural presence.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 42″ W x 14″ D x 17″ H (narrow profile).
- Material: Upholstered in performance fabric over kiln-dried hardwood frame.
- Colors: Slate, Ivory, Olive.
- Design: Minimalist slab top with subtle seam detailing.
- Storage: Lift-top with hidden compartment.
How it looks & feels CB2’s finish is modern and matte. The bench reads like a gallery piece—low and linear with crisp seams. The inner compartment is deep but not overly tall, perfect for slim storage.
Personal testimonial I used this bench in a modern loft shoot. It gave the entryway a curated gallery feel and held my seasonal wraps without overstuffing.
Best for Minimal and contemporary interiors where visual restraint is key.
Value proposition A strong pick for those who want a design-forward trunk without bulk.
Product 5 — Serena & Lily Malibu Storage Bench (Narrow) Coastal, breezy favorites from lifestyle creators Serena & Lily is a go-to on interior channels focused on coastal-cottage elegance. Its woven textures and light finishes photograph exceptionally well in natural light.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 44″ W x 16″ D x 18″ H (also comes in 36″ size).
- Material: Solid hardwood frame with natural rattan or woven rope front panels.
- Colors: Driftwood, natural rattan, white-washed finishes.
- Hardware: Brass or matte black hinges.
- Cushion: Optional seat cushion in linen performance fabric.
How it looks & feels The woven front adds texture and shadow play; sunlight amplifies the tonal variations. The wood frame has a smooth, sun-bleached finish that feels relaxed and beachy.
Personal testimonial I styled the Malibu bench in a sunroom—its texture made the space feel layered and collected. The internal depth handled my coastal throw collection effortlessly.
Best for Coastal, boho, and eclectic spaces where texture and light matter.
Value proposition A statement piece that brings warmth and tactile interest while serving functional needs.
Product 6 — Target Threshold Modern Storage Bench (Narrow) Budget-friendly influencer-approved buy You’ll see Threshold buys in quick makeover videos where creators need accessible, stylish options that won’t break the bank.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 42″ W x 14″ D x 18″ H.
- Material: Engineered wood with veneer, some models upholstered.
- Colors: Gray, white, espresso.
- Storage: Top-lift storage with internal shelf in certain SKUs.
- Design: Clean lines, simple hardware.
How it looks & feels Target’s finishes are smooth and consistent. It’s lightweight—easy to move during photoshoots or seasonal rearranges. The upholstery options are soft and approachable.
Personal testimonial I used this as a staging prop for a rental refresh—easy to set up and guests loved the practical size and neutral aesthetic.
Best for Renters and first-time buyers looking for style on a budget.
Value proposition Great value for multiple uses: bench, trunk, or extra seating during gatherings.
Product 7 — The Home Depot Hampton Bay Storage Trunk (Narrow metal/industrial) Industrial-chic pick popular with DIY channels Hampton Bay’s metal trunks are a favorite in industrial and loft-style makeovers. They’re rugged, stackable, and perfect for an edgier aesthetic.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 36″ W x 14″ D x 18″ H.
- Material: Powder-coated steel body with welded frame.
- Colors/finishes: Gunmetal, matte black, distressed finishes.
- Hardware: Flush latch, reinforced corners.
- Interior: Metal base; some include wooden slats or removable liners.
How it looks & feels The metal is cool to the touch with a raw, utilitarian finish. Patina and subtle distressed spots make it feel authentic. It’s sturdy enough to double as a side table.
Personal testimonial I bought this for my garage-to-living space makeover. It lived up to the maker aesthetic and stored tools and styling supplies with no complaint.
Best for Industrial lofts, studio apartments, and makers who want a utilitarian look.
Value proposition Affordable industrial style with robust build quality.
Product 8 — Article Ceni Walnut Narrow Bench (Narrow timber trunk) Sleek mid-century wood trunk from design channels Article often gets love from designers for clean Scandinavian and mid-century lines; this walnut bench is rich in wood tone and craftsmanship.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 48″ W x 16″ D x 18″ H.
- Material: Solid walnut veneer over engineered substrate; solid walnut legs.
- Finish: Satin walnut stain to show natural grain.
- Storage: Hinged top with a deep compartment; soft-close hinges.
- Colors: Walnut; a lighter oak option may be available seasonally.
How it looks & feels The grain is the star—warm, linear, and tactile. It reads as a furniture-forward piece and anchors mid-century or warm modern interiors.
Personal testimonial I used it at the end of a walnut bed; the tones matched and the bench stored my off-season boots with room to spare.
Best for Mid-century modern and warm minimalist interiors where natural wood warms the palette.
Value proposition High-style, craft-forward piece that functions as furniture and storage.
Product 9 — Wayfair Lark Manor Woven Storage Bench (Narrow) Boho and cottage creators often recommend it Wayfair’s Lark Manor line shows up in affordable styling videos where texture and vintage character are desired.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 40″ W x 14″ D x 18″ H.
- Material: Woven rattan or seagrass front with solid wood frame.
- Colors: Natural, honey, and whitewashed options.
- Interior: Unlined storage cavity; dust guard on some models.
- Hardware: Concealed hinges and gentle lift mechanism.
How it looks & feels The woven front creates shadow patterns that change through the day. It feels handmade even at a mass-market price point. The weave is tactile and pairs well with linen textiles.
Personal testimonial I styled it in a boho guest room and received multiple DMs asking where it was from. It brightened the corner and felt like a curated flea market find.
Best for People wanting textured, boho vibes without spending a fortune.
Value proposition Affordable tactile design that elevates simple rooms.
Product 10 — Restoration Hardware Small Narrow Antique Trunk (Narrow steamer trunk) Heritage-laden influencers love this for luxe looks Restoration Hardware trunks are the splurge pick. When influencers want drama and history, they reach for an RH steamer trunk.
Features & materials
- Dimensions: 38″ W x 14″ D x 19″ H (sizes vary).
- Material: Solid hardwood with metal banding and leather straps.
- Finish: Aged patina, distressed edges.
- Hardware: Brass rivets, lockable latch, leather handles.
- Interior: Lined for protection; heavy-duty base.
How it looks & feels It has presence; the metal details flash under light and the leather straps add tactile warmth. The patina tells a story and reads like a collector’s piece.
Personal testimonial I used this piece in an editorial shot; it grounded the space and made even simple styling feel curated.
Best for Design lovers seeking heirloom pieces and dramatic anchors.
Value criteria — what I looked for in a narrow storage trunk
- Width under 20 inches: To fit hallways and narrow spaces without crowding.
- Depth vs. capacity: A 14–18″ depth with 16–18″ height hits the sweet spot—deep enough for blankets, short enough to act as seating.
- Durable hinges: Soft-close or reinforced metal hinges make daily access pleasant.
- Weight capacity: At least 200 lbs recommended if you plan to use as seating.
- Easy assembly: Fewer parts and clear instructions = faster styling.
- Finish options: Multiple colorways or material finishes increase versatility.
Practical buying advice — how to choose the right trunk for your life
- Measure twice, buy once: Check width, depth, and clearance from doors and walkways.
- Think vertically: Narrow trunks can still offer tall internal storage; consider interior height for folded items.
- Match material to use: Use metal trunks for rugged, high-traffic zones; upholstered trunks for bedrooms where comfort matters.
- Consider climate: Rattan and woven materials are sensitive to humidity; wood with sealed finishes fares better in fluctuating climates.
- Ask yourself: Will I sit on it? Choose a trunk rated for seating. Is it for occasional use? Budget options may suffice.
- Test the lid: Soft-close is luxurious and prevents slams; reinforced hinges are non-negotiable for family homes.
Styling tips from influencer-led shoots
- Layer a runner and a tray on top for an entryway that contains keys and mail without looking messy.
- Use vertical wall hooks above a narrow trunk in the hallway to combine coat storage with concealed gear.
- Pair a woven trunk with textural cushions to echo the weave and create cohesion.
- For photo-ready surfaces, keep the top minimally styled—one ceramic vase, one stack of books, and a tactile throw peeking out.
FAQs — quick answers to common buyer questions Q: Can I use a trunk as a coffee table? A: Yes; narrow trunks work as slim coffee tables in studio apartments or as side tables. Make sure the height complements your sofa and consider adding a tray for stable surfaces.
Q: Are these trunks heavy? A: It varies. Solid wood and metal trunks are heavier and more permanent. Engineered wood and rattan options are lighter and easier to move.
Q: How do I clean a woven trunk? A: Dust regularly with a soft brush; spot clean with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking; allow full drying to prevent mildew.
Q: Can they be used outdoors? A: Most are intended for indoor use. For covered outdoor spaces look for metal with powder-coat finishes or teak/treated wood designed for outdoor exposure.
What to look for in hinge and lid quality
- Soft-close or slow-close hinges minimize noise and wear.
- Concealed piano hinges offer full-length support and reduce sag.
- Reinforced hinge plates or metal brackets increase longevity.
- Smooth lift mechanisms or pistons help when opening with one hand.
Value propositions at different price points
- Budget: Target Threshold, Wayfair Lark Manor—good aesthetics and functional storage for staging or short-term use.
- Mid-range: IKEA BRIMNES, West Elm, Serena & Lily—better materials, more design options, and improved durability.
- Investment: Restoration Hardware, Article, Pottery Barn—timeless finishes, superior materials, and a furniture quality build that lasts years.
Personal buying checklist
- Measure the spot (width, depth, and clearance).
- Check seat weight limit if you’ll sit on it.
- Confirm hinge type and return policy.
- Look at interior dimensions for what you plan to store.
- Match finish to room scale and lighting—dark trunks add contrast; light trunks expand visual space.
Small-space use cases I love
- Narrow entryways: A slim trunk can store shoes, umbrellas, and dog leashes while providing a drop spot for keys.
- Bedroom end-of-bed storage: Long, narrow trunks fit flush to bed footboards and hold a season’s worth of bedding.
- Hallway console alternative: Under a gallery wall, a trunk becomes a functional, low console.
- Nursery storage: Use a cushioned trunk for diaper supplies and as a comfortable place to sit for quick changes.
Care & maintenance tips
- For wood: Use furniture polish sparingly; wipe spills immediately.
- For upholstery: Follow manufacturer instructions; spot-test cleaners on hidden areas first.
- For woven pieces: Avoid direct heat sources; rotate placement occasionally to even out sun exposure.
- For metal: Wipe with a damp cloth and apply light oil to moving parts if they squeak.
Sustainability considerations
- Seek FSC-certified wood or reclaimed wood options for a lower environmental footprint.
- Choose pieces with durable finishes to extend lifespan and reduce replacements.
- Consider brands offering take-back or recycling programs for disposal.
How influencers weigh aesthetics vs. practicality Top YouTubers often ask: will it look good in photos, and will it hold up in real life? They favour trunks that can be styled on camera, but only keep recommending pieces that still perform after months of use. That balance is why many creators cycle through the same trusted brands—the ones that keep delivering on both fronts.
My final thoughts and recommendation If you want a single recommendation that balances price, design, and durability, I often point people toward West Elm’s mid-century storage bench for bedrooms, or the IKEA BRIMNES if budget and availability matter most. For those seeking a statement, Restoration Hardware’s trunk offers heirloom character.
Remember: a trunk is more than storage; it’s a design anchor. Pick the material that matches your daily life—durable fabrics for family rooms, woven textures for sunlit spaces, and solid wood for timeless bedrooms. And measure before you commit—narrow trunks are forgiving in scale, but only the right width will make your busy life feel a little calmer.
Further reading and sources influencers cite
- Apartment Therapy product reviews and long-term living tests.
- Mr. Kate and The Sorry Girls “best storage” roundups and room makeovers.
- Brand product pages: West Elm, Pottery Barn, Restoration Hardware, IKEA, Serena & Lily, Article, Target Threshold, Wayfair Lark Manor, CB2, The Home Depot Hampton Bay.
If you want, I can:
- Create a printable “measure-before-you-buy” checklist tailored to your room.
- Compare two specific trunks side-by-side (dimensions, price, pros/cons) for your space.
- Suggest styling combos (color palettes, textiles, and top decor) for any trunk you choose.