Multi-Purpose Table with Inlaid Storage Container

Abstract

A piece of furniture having a relatively flat upper surface and at least one aperture for inserting at least one removable storage bucket. The bucket has a lid that also fits within the aperture, and is flush with the top of the furniture upper surface. Service items such as ice, bottles, sauce containers and the like may be stored within the bucket. Alternatively the lid may have a plurality of small holes so that flower stems, decorative grasses, or sparklers can be inserted into the bucket to provide decor without cluttering the upper surface. The underlying furniture may be a table, ottoman, side table, desk, or any other furniture with a flat upper surface.

I claim: 
     
         1 ) An article of furniture having at least one removable storage container, comprising:
 a piece of furniture having a flat upper surface and at least one support, and having at least one aperture in said upper surface;   a removable storage container having at least one wall and a bottom, defining an interior volume, and having a rim extending outward from an upper edge of said wall, wherein said rim has a diameter less than that of said aperture;   a lid for said container, wherein said lid has a diameter approximately equal to that of said aperture.   
     
     
         2 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said aperture further comprises:
 a ledge extending around the circumference of said aperture, wherein said ledge engages with and supports said removable storage container rim.   
     
     
         3 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein an edge of said aperture proximal to said furniture upper surface has a diameter greater than an edge distal from said upper surface. 
     
     
         4 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said piece of furniture is a table. 
     
     
         5 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said removable storage container is a bucket. 
     
     
         6 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said lid has a handle. 
     
     
         7 ) The device of  claim 1 , wherein said lid has a plurality of apertures extending through it.