Sometimes a project is so easy, you wonder why you didn’t think of it before. Like this suitcase table. It doesn’t require any power tools, craft glue or paint. And it serves two purposes: a side table next to a chair or the bed, as well as storage. Both are valuable assets in any home, especially a small one. So, it’s particularly attractive for apartment or dorm living.

You can use any suitcases, but I love the look of these vintage cardboard and faux-leather cases. They’re so nostalgic, reminding us of a time when travel was a really big deal.

Each of these has working locks and attached handles. Some of them even have travel stickers commemorating places visited.

Look for suitcases with sturdy, flat sides so they can easily stack. These happen to be the same width, but different sizes would make an interesting table, too. They’re light weight so it shouldn’t be a problem to “unstack” them to get at the items stored within.

Wouldn’t you love to hear the stories these suitcases could tell?