Four smart accessories that do double duty

From a stunning toboggan bench to a stool that seats up to five, these space-saving pieces will do more in the home, without compromising on style.

By Rayna Schwartz

Updated October 3, 2018

Four smart accessories that do double duty

Photo, Sian Richards

Double-duty home accessories

Winter bench

Fit for our northern climate, this toboggan is a perfect way to put your winter pastime to use year-round! Designed by Canadian duo Heather Lam and Scott Bodaly of the National Design Collective, the steam-bench ash sled fits upside down on a specifically designed bench to create a seat when not in use. To use as a toboggan, simple take it off the bench, flip it right-side up and it’s ready to race down snowy hills (or haul groceries home).

Ubagaan bench, $2,200 ($400 for toboggan only), The National Design Collective.

Photo, Sian Richards.

Surprise seating

It is hard to believe that this sleek cube ottoman also provides seating for up to five individuals! Resource Furniture has a variety of cool space-saving pieces and this is one example of their innovative furniture designs. Each side of the ottoman can be removed to create a comfortable stool with a padded seat. It is a fantastic way to instantly create additional seating when you're entertaining.

Cubista seating, price available upon request, Resource Furniture.

Easy entertaining

Perfect for your next party, this dual-functioning platter, designed by Sebastian Conran, combines a removable beech-wood carving board with a serving dish. Chop and prepare snacks on the board then simply place it atop the white porcelain serving base. Voila, entertaining in a cinch. Bonus: This item makes a wonderful hostess gift!

Universal expert serving platter, $80, West Elm.

Versatile piece

Take a seat, relax, but only after you have tidied up. The multi-purpose bench designed by Mermelada Estudio has a beautiful, clean white surface with a charcoal-gray plush seat. Open it up and you will find a deep storage space to hide seasonal items and store home accessories.

Catch-all storage bench, $499, CB2.

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