When Charlotte announced that she had purchased the Cox and Cox Vintage Metal Trolley we had many a conversation over what it could be used for. This was after the conversation that began with me declaring in a jealous rage that I REALLY wanted one.

A trolley is massively versatile and can add much needed storage space to any area in your home. Here we’ve taken the Cox and Cox version and set three gorgeous scenes to offer you a bit of inspiration if you’re planning on adding a manoeuvrable piece of furniture into your decor. Admittedly we forgot to snap a shot of the empty version, but I imagine you get the gist.

In the Kitchen

First up the kitchen trolley. Okay so it’s not exactly the much coveted island unit, but for this set up I was keen to demonstrate how you can use a trolley for extra storage space.

As you can see I’ve loaded up the kilner jars with your basic supplies and stuffed a mug to the brim with cutlery, I’ve also added in a few bottles with stoppers that you could use for oil, vinegar or just add in a stem for a make-shift vase. Is it just me who finds the idea of a flip top bottle a bit chic and continental? Ah, just me then.
On the next shelf I’ve stacked up the crockery and glasses and then on the bottom used everyone’s favourite kitchenware, Le Cruseut, to add a splash of colour. It’s a pricey bit of kit but will last you a lifetime and I’m yet to meet a person who doesn’t love a bit of cast iron in the kitchen.

Your very own Bar

Moving on to scene number two, the Bar Cart. Moveable Bars seem to be popping up in homes up and down the country and the trend is set to continue in 2014.
Here the trolley could be rolled into the corner of your lounge or maybe a dining room and then you simply raid your alcohol supply for an eclectic selection of bottles. For a cheeky extra touch I took a vintage soda syphon to create my own lamp. This little beauty only set me back a pound from a car boot sale but expect to pay about £10-£15 for one on eBay or from your local antique shop. I used professional tile saws to drill some holes through the bottom (which took forever as it’s rather thick glass) and then threaded through white fairy lights. Simple yet unique.
As well as including the essential glassware, striped straws and mounds of lemons, I’ve also added in a few extras for a games night; dominoes and cards. Throw in a few poker chips and you’ve got your very own casino.
Finally I’ve stashed a lot of champagne (well maybe prosecco) corks into an ice bucket to add a touch of memorabilia to the bar. I like to keep one from every celebration and so judging by my hoard it would appear that I am keen on celebrating…..

In the Office

Some of us may not have the luxury of an office and so enter the saviour of studio areas. Here our trolley can be used as a makeshift bureau and can be ushered into any space to create a designated studio space.
How adorable is this Cox and Cox pigeon hole unit? It’s perfect for storing all your odds and ends; drawing pins, bulldog clips and washi tape and helps keep all your essentials in one place. I’m very fond of the utilitarian look that can be achieved from using craft supplies; the clipboard (which proved to be must-have on a recent RMW/RMS shoot as we all turned up with one!) and folders and document holder are all functional yet uber stylish.
Finally I added a globe to our wheely shelves to provide the ultimate daydream device. This blush number was picked up on a recent treasure trove but you can get your hands on a similar one from Oliver Bonas.

So my lovelies, is anyone feeling inspired to splash out on a trolley? What would you use one for? Which look is your favourite?

We’ve used the Cox and Cox Trolley but Ikea also have some great options too if you’re after a low budget solution.