Aluminium Cases
Clubhouse Interiors continues their trend in unique, vintage and authentic antique pieces to create the perfect living space with their beautiful assortment of aluminium suitcases. The beauty of this light-weight alloy metal in the home can seem a strange concept at first. A certain coldness can be associated with metal so it is important to remember to mix the addition of metallic materials with softer fabrics and rustic contrasts to warm an interior design space.
Re-purposed cases can inspire numerous reclaiming and upcycling ideas for use in the home, and can be used successfully for conventional display or storage. Converting the structural elements of an aluminium suitcase can provide the outlines for an array of shelving, cabinets, cupboards, ottomans or table bases – the possibilities are simply, endless.
Aluminium cases were first mass-produced from around the first world war (1914-1918), with the majority of practical, hard-wearing items for soldiers made in this lightweight and versatile alloy.
The US military also made many structures, components, equipment and even armour with this fantastic, strong material. With suitcases and travel trunks in mind, this new, robust material was more suitable and lasted longer than a soft leather alternative, withstanding heavy-duty travel and regular usage. Suitcases and trunks for personal effects made from aluminium are still relied upon today, with modern metal companies making sleek, shiny, modern equivalents for those in the modern military alongside commercial pilots and many others involved in long-haul travel.
Larger cases and trunks can be used as natural features or statement pieces – utlised well as an occasional table or coffee table. The beautiful, authentic aluminium cases are often not without a few imperfections and dents for a more distressed and aged feel. The replicas are made in a retro or vintage style, and can achieve the same effect when paired with other items for both contrast and maximum impact.
The fastenings of aluminium cases can vary, often finished with leather handles, finer stud detailing and corner protectors with vintage metal fastenings. The addition of an aluminium case or three in can work perfectly in the vintage industrial trends of home interior design ideas of the moment. The cases can be used in the same methods as our vintage leather cases, however the introduction of metals in the home can add even more character, especially when used with other industrial materials, steel repurposing, naturally distressed wood and polished, restored leather.
The success of eclectic interior design is to mix tried and tested style ideas with individuality. Clubhouse Interiors aim to make this process as inspiring and easy as possible. Aluminium cases are fantastic, historically significant storage solutions and have always been made with quality and durability in mind. The age and authenticity of each suitcase will affect the overall shade of colour, texture and shine of the item, meaning no two suitcases look identical.
Check out the selection of authentic vintage and retro-inspired aluminium cases in the Clubhouse Interiors showroom, and feel free to contact us for help or further information about our bespoke restoration and hire options.
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Out of stockLarge Polished Lockheed Aluminium Suitcase (SOLD)
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Out of stockLockheed Aluminium Suitcase C1940’s (SOLD)
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Out of stockPolished Aluminium Hat Box (SOLD)
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Out of stockPolished Aluminium Hat Box (SOLD)
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Out of stockPolished Aluminium Suitcase by Heston’s of London (SOLD)
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Out of stockVintage Aluminium Travel Trunk (SOLD)
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Out of stockVintage Aluminium Travel Trunk (SOLD)
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Out of stockVintage Lockheed Aluminium Hat Box (SOLD)