Tansus, made by specialized craftsmen called Tansuyas, are amazing storage pieces made with many different woods, such as elm, cedar and walnut. Initially, these pieces were used from the 17th century into the early 20th century as mobile storage, carrying everything from clothes to documents. Now, tansus function as stationary pieces in the home. They can seem contemporary, traditional or eclectic, and frequently are great conversation starters. Their lovely ironwork and various compartments add texture to any room.
When I lived and worked in Tokyo, I would stumble upon small flea markets where local sellers sold their wares. It was at one of these flea markets I bought my first tansu. I didn’t have sufficient money on hand, and the candy Japanese girl insisted that I simply mail it to her. I did, and she delivered it to my small apartment. I have that tansu, 15 decades after, and treasure that memory every time I walk past it.
Continue reading to have a peek at just how designers are employing these traditional pieces in the modern interiors.
Square One Interiors
This tansu serves as extra storage in this master bath.
Adeeni Design Group
This large tansu creates a great focal point in this master bedroom. The detail and texture of the piece is so intriguing that you simply need a few things to complete the vignette. A bonsai, sculpture and a very simple bowl anchor the artwork in this room.
The easy design and low height of the tansu make it the ideal size for an end table for this particular couch. The iron grips provide a great detail in this grand room that is full of sun and hot fir ceilings.
Jeff Luth – Soldano Luth Architects
A stunning, double-height tansu looks as though it were constructed for this room’s layout. It acts as a sideboard into the dining room, and the storage possibilities are infinite. Three easy pendants hang over the dining table, adding to the minimalist Japanese aesthetic.
Philpotts Interiors
This tansu feels contemporary with its simple lines and minimal information. The room’s designer cleverly used a monochromatic palette as a great background for artwork.
Audrey Brandt Interiors
This is a timeless step tansu that will fit with any style. I really like to float these pieces with the tall end from a wall, because they make great room dividers. The graduated measures allow for screen chances.
Charmean Neithart Interiors
Following is a timeless tansu configuration of extended drawers with a locked compartment at the lower right-hand corner. The secured areas are in which valuables were stored when these pieces were used in transport. A white and blue Japanese plate rounds out this conventional vignette.
This double-height tansu serves as a freestanding cupboard inside this kitchen — an illustration of a tansu in a contemporary, pared-down cosmetic.
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