Feeling Cramped? Just Chill Out

Those of us with a small balcony, deck or patio know staging a party -- and stashing stuff when it's over -- is a challenge.

Brookbend Outdoor Furniture near Boston had us in mind for its red cedar Storage Buffet Box. The three-part lid opens to create two serving areas and space for three plastic tubs to fill with ice for chilling food and drink. When the party ends, stow garden tools, lanterns or seat cushions inside until the next fete.

Company President Paul Marcus calls assembly "very, very easy." On sale through June 30, the large $599 box measures about 30 inches high by 28 inches deep by 63 inches wide; a one-tub $259 model is about 30 inches high by 22 inches deep by 28 inches wide. Prices jump to $1,000 and $350, respectively, next month. Add $70 for staining, which, says Marcus, makes the cedar look like teak. 877-204-6986 or www.brookbend.com.