An apothecary may sound like something straight out of a historical novel, but today, it serves a far more modern purpose. Whether you’ve recently inherited an antique apothecary cabinet, are a DIY enthusiast looking to build one, or stumbled upon a unique piece of furniture in a thrift store, there is much to explore and create. Beyond its historical charm, an apothecary offers countless creative storage, organization, and decor opportunities.
This blog will explain what an apothecary is, provide a few practical uses, suggest inventive ways to incorporate it into your home, and offer pro tips for making the most of it.
What Is an Apothecary
Originally, an apothecary referred to a medical professional who prepared and sold medical concoctions, much like a modern pharmacist. On the other hand, apothecary cabinets are multi-drawer cabinets traditionally used to store herbs, spices, and medicines.
These cabinets are often small to medium and feature dozens of identical drawers. While their roots lie in medicine, their design makes them a perfect tool for modern-day organizations. Today, apothecary-style cabinets can take on a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, but they always retain their trademark rows of small drawers.
What Makes an Apothecary Special
- Visual appeal: Their vintage design makes them a conversation starter for any room.
- Versatility: Apothecary cabinets fit almost any purpose, balancing storage functionality and decorative charm.
- Rustic charm: The woodwork and historic ties add a timeless feel to any space, suiting traditional and modern homes.
- Organization: The small drawers and compartments allow for organized storage, making it easy to find and access items.
- Multi-functional: Apothecary cabinets can be used in various ways, such as storing kitchen spices, jewellery, office supplies, or even as a unique bathroom vanity.
- Durability: Made from sturdy materials like wood or metal, these cabinets are built to last for generations.
- Eco-friendly: Many vintage apothecary cabinets have been repurposed, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
- Collector’s item: Due to their rarity and historical significance, collectors and antique enthusiasts often seek apothecary cabinets.
The big question remains: what should you do with an apothecary?
Practical Uses for an Apothecary
Organise Everyday Essentials
An apothecary’s plenty of small drawers are perfect for organizing small items:
- Craft Supplies and Tools
From paintbrushes to sewing needles, an apothecary helps keep craft supplies neat. Label each drawer by item type so you’ll never waste time searching for that one specific tool again.
- Jewellery and Accessories
Allocating one drawer to each type of accessory will prevent rings, earrings, and necklaces from tangling. For a luxurious touch, add velvet drawer liners.
- Office Supplies
Tidy up your desk by storing small items like paper clips, push pins, pens, and sticky notes in labelled drawers. This is especially helpful if you run a home office or creative studio!
- Tea and Spices
Store tea bags, loose-leaf blends, or small spice jars in an apothecary cabinet to bring the charm of an old-world tea shop into your kitchen. This not only adds a touch of whimsy but also keeps your tea and spices fresh.
- Craft Supplies
Group items in labelled bins and baskets to transform a basic bookcase into an organized craft station. Use see-through containers to locate your supplies when inspiration strikes quickly. Plus, it adds a colourful touch to any creative space!
- Cables and Cords
Invest in cable organizers to avoid tangled cords and cable chaos. These simple tools can keep your cords in one place and prevent them from becoming tangled. You can also use labels or colour-coded ties to identify which cord belongs to which device easily.
- Toys
Provide labelled bins for toys to teach kids to clean up. Use pictures or words on the containers so that children know where each toy belongs. This not only helps with organization but also encourages responsibility and independence.
- Seasonal Decorations
Label and organize your holiday decorations in clear containers to avoid digging through boxes yearly. This will not only save you time during the busy holiday season but also protect your precious decorations from damage or loss.
- Pantry Organization
Labelling and organizing food items in your pantry helps with meal planning and lets you easily see what items you need to restock. Consider using clear containers or labels on shelves to make everything easily accessible.
- Closet Organization
Labelling and organizing can save you time and stress when getting ready for the day, whether it’s your wardrobe or linen closet. Use dividers, bins, or colour-coded hangers to separate different types of clothing items and keep them neatly organized.
Curate a Mini Apothecary
Why not lean into tradition? Use your cabinet to store your “remedies,” herbal teas, or essential oils. Label the drawers for easy access. Stock it with items like:
- Dried herbs (lavender, chamomile)
- Essential oil bottles
- Salves and balms
- Candles or potpourri
This could turn into a meditation corner or even a small side hustle if you’re into making natural remedies!
Home Garden Seed Storage
If gardening is your passion, this is for you! Apothecary cabinets are great for storing and categorizing:
- Seed packets
- Gardening gloves
- Plant tags
- Twine, scissors, or small tools
Make life easier during planting season with easy-to-access content.
Creative Ways to Incorporate an Apothecary Into Your Home
Statement Entryway Piece
Place an apothecary cabinet in your entryway to store keys, mail, and other small daily essentials. Adding some greenery or a vintage mirror on top can make it the focal point of your space.
Living Room Decor Organiser
Use an apothecary cabinet as a decorative piece that doubles as storage. In its drawers, you can store board games, coasters, remote controls, or candles. Its unique appearance will undoubtedly catch the eye of your guests.
Bathroom Storage
Ideal for bathroom toiletries, an apothecary can store everything from cotton swabs to bath salts. It brings a spa-like vibe to your space, with drawers keeping all your items neatly tucked away.
Bedroom Nightstand or Makeup Organiser
Repurpose an apothecary as a unique bedside table or makeup station. The drawers can hold books, skincare products, and cosmetics, while the top surface can showcase framed photos, candles, or a lamp.
Children’s Room Treasure Chest
For kids, an apothecary can become a magical storage unit for toys, Legos, or art supplies. Keep the drawers labelled and encourage your children to stay organized while sparking their imagination.
How to Customize and Style Your Apothecary
Give It a Makeover
If your apothecary looks worn, consider refinishing it:
- Paint it in bold colours to add a touch of modernity. Popular paint trends include navy, sage green, or matte black.
- Distress the wood with sandpaper for a shabby-chic or vintage vibe.
Add decorative knobs to give each drawer some personality. They come in countless styles, from brass to porcelain. Here are some unique options to get you started.
- Stain the wood for a natural, rustic look. Try using different stains on each drawer to create an ombre effect.
Personalize It
Apothecaries can be more than just functional storage units; they can also showcase your style and interests. Consider these ideas:
- Display a collection of crystals or stones in one of the drawers or on the apothecary.
- Use it as a jewellery organizer by placing small dishes or trays in the drawers to hold rings, earrings, and other accessories.
- Fill a drawer with dried flowers or potpourri for a subtle pop of colour and scent.
- Add a small globe or map on top and use the drawers to store travel souvenirs or postcards.
- Use it as a herb garden, with each drawer holding a different type of herb. Label the drawers using chalkboard labels for an added touch.
- Turn it into a mini bar cart by storing glasses, mixers, and bottles in the drawers. You can even add some decorative cocktail napkins or coasters on top.
Personalize Your Drawer Labels
To make your apothecary both functional and stylish, use:
- Chalkboard labels for flexibility.
- Engraved metal or wooden tags for an antique feel.
- Fancy calligraphy for an elegant touch.
Top It Off
The top surface of your apothecary is prime real estate for personalization! Style it with items like:
- Potted plants or terrariums
- Framed artwork or mirrors
- Family photos
- Decorative trays for loose items
Caring for Your Apothecary
Preserve the longevity of your apothecary cabinet with some essential care tips:
- Dust regularly to prevent buildup.
- Use wood polish to keep a wooden apothecary looking fresh.
- Store it in a cool, dry place to protect it from humidity, especially if it’s an antique.
- Check for loose knobs or hinges and repair them promptly.
Bringing History and Functionality Together
An apothecary isn’t just a storage piece; it’s a statement. Whether you use it as a playful organizer for small goods, a charming decor piece, or a functioning modern-day herbal cabinet, its versatility ensures it can be curated to suit your needs.
Thinking of transforming your space with an apothecary? Share your ideas or pictures of your setup in the comments—we’d love to see how you unlock its potential!
