The Curio Cabinet Makes a Comeback

The words ‘curio cabinet’ and even ‘display case’ may bring to mind something fusty and old-fashioned. But lately we’ve been starting to see more and more of these in stylish, modern homes. I think the interest in having a few well-placed tchotchkes is a reaction to the uber-minimal aeshetic of a few years past, but glass-front cabinets aren’t just for good looks: they’re also a great way to contain a lot of things without looking messy.

Above: A beautiful glass-front cabinet, filled with books and treasured items, really makes this workspace from My Scandinavian Home.

A lot of different items on a bookshelf can start to seem chaotic, but as this shot from Stylizmo demonstrates, a glass case brings things together and gives off a feeling of containment and order.

An antique glass cabinets (with baskets above for extra storage) graces Melaine’s Little Loft Bedroom.

A glass curio cabinet in a modern living room from Cereal.

Curio cabinets, like this one from Coco Lapine Design, are a great way to display collections (and not worry about having to dust them).

This glass-front cabinet from Skona Hem holds books, plants, and tchotchkes. These are a great option if you need a little extra storage and like looking at your stuff, but want something a little more orderly and contained than a bookcase or open shelving.

A smaller wall-mounted curio case displays collections in this interior from Planete Deco.

A glass display case makes a perfect bar, as seen in this interior from Erika Brechtel.

Here’s a little inspiration for your next remodel: built-in shelves with glass doors in a living room from House & Home.