In Search of Old Furniture
This article is a continuation of our post titled “14 Old Furniture Pieces We Still Know Today (Under Different Names)”. We continue exploring those traditional furniture items that were once an organic part of Hungarian homes, and which—often under new names and in new forms—still live with us today. Let’s discover which furniture names also come up that held significance in earlier times!
Lócza – the multifunctional rural bench
The lócza in olden times was not just seating but a social space—an essential feature of kitchens and porches. Made of wood, with or without a backrest, and often decorated with carvings. Today, it appears as an entryway bench or rustic seating, bringing rural charm to our modern interiors.
Diván – designed for resting
The diván was a low, backless piece of furniture mainly used for afternoon rest. It was a must-have in 19th-century bourgeois homes. Today, it returns to modern interiors as a daybed or sofa bed, often featuring decorative pillows and a light, airy look.
Recamiere – the elegant reclining seat
The recamiere is a refined reclining seat with support on one side, primarily used by women for reading or relaxing. Its modern counterpart is the chaise longue, often adorning living rooms and bedrooms with clean lines and elegant upholstery.
Sofa bed – the predecessor of multifunctional furniture
The sofa bed is considered the predecessor of today’s convertible couches. Its functionality is timeless: seating during the day, guest bed at night. Today’s versions are more compact and modernized, but the aim remains the same: a space-saving, practical solution for smaller homes.
Stool – the little all-rounder
The stool is a low, three- or four-legged small seat traditionally used in kitchens, workshops, or as children’s furniture. Its modern version often appears as a footrest or step stool—frequently featuring stylish design elements.
Backrest chair – when a backrest was a privilege
The term backrest chair was once necessary because people often sat on benches or stools without backrests. Today, the term “chair” usually implies a backrest by default. Classic wooden backrest chairs, however, remain popular in vintage interiors.
Foot-of-bed chest – hidden storage at your feet
The small chest or trunk at the end of the bed is still a familiar feature today—used for storing bed linen, shoes, or seasonal clothes. It used to be called a foot-of-bed chest and now lives on as a storage bench or bed box, in both upholstered and wooden designs.
Subapad – seat and storage in one
The subapad is an excellent example of multifunctional furniture. Beneath its seat, one could store shoes, household items, or tools. Today’s storage benches with seating in entryways are clear descendants of this practical piece.
Commodesk – where writing meets storage
The commodesk combined the functionality of a dresser and a writing desk. It was common in smaller homes or women’s rooms, where it served for letter-writing, journaling, or sewing. Today, similar pieces are known as storage console tables.
Ottoman – much more than a footrest
The ottoman was often a simple, unupholstered seat used for short seating or resting the feet. Today, it returns in fashionable form as a pouf or modern ottoman, with colorful covers and patterned upholstery.
Bodorfa – the decorative wall cabinet
The bodorfa was a carved and painted wall-mounted cabinet that decorated rural homes. It typically stored utensils, mugs, or prayer books. Today, its visual effect is mirrored by open wall shelves or vintage cabinets.
Szekondér – the versatile cupboard
The szekondér was a multi-part cabinet with drawers or shelves, typically found in kitchens. Its legacy continues in today’s dining room storage cabinets or sideboards.
Pácoltás – open, elegant storage
The term pácoltás has almost vanished today, but it once was an integral part of bourgeois homes. It was a glass-fronted or open shelf cabinet for decorative items and books. Today, its equivalent is the display cabinet or bookshelf.
Kredenc – the retro sideboard
The kredenc is an iconic furniture piece with a closed bottom and an open or glass-fronted upper part. It decorated kitchens or dining rooms, storing dishes, plates, and decorative items. It’s still a favorite among fans of retro or country styles.
Rocking chair – a timeless classic
The rocking chair could be found in almost every old house—especially remembered as grandma’s favorite. The soothing rocking motion is still beloved today, in ergonomic forms or as a nursery room feature.
Telephone stand – comfort and practicality
The telephone stand appeared in the late 19th century with the spread of wired telephones, when devices were large and fixed. These pieces were typically placed in hallways or living room corners, providing space for the phone, a notepad, phone book, and pen. Classic telephone stands often included a drawer, shelf, or even a seat for added convenience.
Tradition and style – still alive in today’s homes
We hope this article has helped you rediscover classic Hungarian furniture that still finds its place in modern interior design. These objects are not just functional items, but part of our cultural heritage.
If you appreciate furniture with history and character, browse our collection! Among our pieces that blend contemporary form with the timeless elegance of Italian furniture, you’re sure to find something that makes your home truly special.
Explore our furniture and bring home a touch of history captured in wood!
