Furniture Types
Chest of Drawers
The chest of drawers is perhaps the most essential storage furniture—a case piece containing stacked horizontal drawers for clothing, linens, or general storage. Also called a dresser or bureau depending on region and configuration, this fundamental furniture form exists in every style from rustic pine to sleek contemporary.
The design's simplicity and utility ensure its continued relevance. A bedroom without a chest of drawers is incomplete; multiple chests throughout a home provide organized, accessible storage.
Key Characteristics
- ✓Stacked horizontal drawers
- ✓Various heights and widths
- ✓Essential bedroom furniture
- ✓Universal design form
- ✓Multiple style options
- ✓Practical storage focus
Types & Variations
Dresser (wide, often with mirror)
Bureau (tall and narrow)
Bachelor's chest (small, 3-4 drawers)
Gentleman's chest (includes cabinet section)
Double dresser (extra wide)
Common Materials
Wood (all types)Painted finishesLaminateMetalMirrored surfaces
Works Well With These Styles
Placement & Usage Tips
Position chests where drawers can fully extend without obstruction. In bedrooms, consider sightlines from the bed. Anchoring tall chests to walls prevents tipping, especially with children present.
💡 Pro Tip
Drawer construction indicates quality: dovetail joints, solid wood sides, and full-extension glides outperform stapled particle board with partial-extension slides. Test drawers in-store—they should glide smoothly without catching.