The “Outdated” Piece from Grandma’s House That’s Suddenly Cool Again
If you spent time at a grandparent’s house when you were growing up, chances are you’ll remember one large piece of furniture that seemed ubiquitous amongst older generations: the “china hutch.” With its size commanding attention, and its contents communicating “no running in the dining room,” the distinctive piece was a mainstay for displaying all of the very best dishes (which you otherwise probably never saw!).
However, it’s not as common nowadays to own tableware that’s so special that it needs to be showcased. If you received china for your wedding, you’ve likely tucked it away somewhere safe, only to be very occasionally brought out for dinner parties.
So, is it worth it to even own a china hutch anymore? Designers say yes — just be prepared to get creative. “If you can get your hands on a well-made china hutch, jump at the opportunity!” emphasizes Heather Kirk of Kirk Riley Design. “With a little planning, a solid piece of furniture can be repurposed and reimagined for the next generation.”
What Is a China Hutch?
Kirk explains that a china hutch is a tall and wide piece of wood furniture that rose in popularity in England during the early 18th century. The upper shelves usually are enclosed with glass doors, while drawers in the middle were traditionally used for silverware.
They can also vary in style, from highboy (tall and vertical) to breakfront (where the central section juts out beyond the side sections). They were traditionally rendered in dark woods, such as mahogany or walnut.
Why Do They End Up in Thrift Stores?
China hutches frequently pop up in thrift stores these days. It’s likely that their size and growing lack of utility makes them pieces that, when inherited, are deemed more trouble than they’re worth.
However, this means that you can often score a deal on a china hutch when you find one in the wild — and the best news? There are no rules when it comes to how you use your furniture (as long as you do so safely, of course). You can rework your hutch to suit your needs, whatever they may be — and we’re already seeing others forging the way all over social media, with creative restorations and reimaginings.
So How Are People Using China Hutches Now?
To Display Sentimental or Seasonal Trinkets
The glass doors often found on these display cabinets can be perfect for storing sentimental items and keeping them dust-free, too. “[They] can be your best friend for corralling everything from magazines to baking supplies,” Kirk explains. “Maybe you have a colorful shoe collection worthy of showcasing! They also offer a perfect place to hide less-often-used decor items. Think of storing holiday decor items in decorative boxes on top.”
As a Bar Cart
One of my personal favorite ways I’ve seen people style their china cabinets is to use it as a bar cabinet. Again, everything is protected from dust, unsightly necessities can be tucked away behind doors or in drawers, and your gorgeous glassware can all be kept on display. This works well for the combined living and dining spaces we often see in smaller apartments.
As a Linen Closet
Last but not least, one of the most creative uses I’ve seen is using china hutches in the bathroom to display and store bathroom towels in place of linen closets. Again, the bonus is that the cabinet can keep them clean, dry, and dust-free.
Further Reading
Big College Energy: 12 Dorm Room Essentials That Do the Most (Partner)
Dorm Goals: 10 IKEA Finds That Just Make Sense (Partner)
How to Set Up a Dorm Room That Works Really Hard — and Looks Really Good (Partner)
