Corona Drawer Chest, Waxed Pine Furniture, Chest of Drawers

It is Mexican Pine, not some high-end hardwood from a heritage forest. It is honest. It is a bit rough around the edges, and that is exactly why people like it. If you are looking for something that stays looking brand new forever, go buy something made of plastic and metal. If you want something that feels like a proper bit of kit, this is it.

The thing about the corona drawer chest is the durability. I call it kid-proof. Pine is a soft wood, so yes, it will get a few dings and scratches over the years. But unlike that flat-pack rubbish made of compressed paper and glue, you can actually fix pine. A bit of Wax Pine Furniture polish and a rag usually sorts out most of the trouble. It is the “buy it once” mentality. I hate seeing furniture at the tip after six months. This stuff stays out of the landfill because it is built with actual timber.

You have probably seen this style before. It is often called Mexican Pine Furniture because of those black metal studs and the rustic hinges. It has got a bit of character. It is not trying to be sleek or modern. It is just a sturdy place to put your socks and bits and bobs.

One thing I will warn you about is the weight. It is solid wood, so it is heavy. Do not try and lug the 6-drawer version up the stairs on your own unless you fancy a trip to the osteopath. Get some help. And if you are worried about the finish, the corona grey furniture is a decent middle ground if you find the natural orange tones of pine a bit too “farmhouse” for your liking.

If you are just starting out or kitting out a guest room, this is solid Bedroom Furniture that won’t break the bank. You can find more advice on keeping your wood in good nick over at my guide on Oak Sideboard Care: Protecting Your Investment. Even though that is about oak, the basics of keeping wood away from radiators and direct sunlight still apply here.

Look, I am a bit of a snob when it comes to joinery, but I can appreciate a good value piece when I see one. It is functional. It does the job. It is not fancy, but it is proper. If you are still on the fence about what to look for, have a quick read of this Buying an Oak Sideboard: Shopping Guide to see how different woods stack up against each other.

Comparison: Pine vs Oak vs Flat-pack

Common Questions I Get Asked

Is it actually solid wood? Yes. It is solid pine. No cardboard backs or flimsy drawer bottoms that bow the minute you put more than three jumpers in them.

How do I stop it from smelling like wax? That “new furniture” smell is just the finish. Give it a few days in a ventilated room and it disappears. Personally, I like it. Smells like a proper workshop.

Can I paint it? You can, but you will need to strip the wax finish first. It is a messy job. If you want grey, just buy the grey version and save yourself a weekend of sanding.

Will the drawers stick? Pine moves with the seasons. If a drawer gets a bit stiff in the winter, just rub a bit of candle wax on the runners. It is a two-minute fix.

Is it hard to put together? It is not rocket science, but take your time. If you rush it and strip the screws, you will be annoyed. Use a manual screwdriver, not a power drill, or you will split the wood.

“Bought the 4-drawer version for my son’s room. It has survived three house moves and a very energetic toddler. It is a bit scratched now, but it still feels as solid as the day I put it together. Worth every penny.”

Shop Related: Bedroom Chest of Drawers