Hackers help: Akurum to trunk/chest?

I bought an Akurum 36×24 from the as-is section to use as a blanket chest.  Now I would like to put a “top” on it. I can use any type of top, it can be a distressed trunk type of top or it can just be a piece of wood that I will put a pillow on top of. I’m leaning towards the latter with a rope handle that will be concealed under the pillow. What type of wood do I get? Same measurements as the Akurum? Where do I place the hinges? I know this should be a pretty simply hack but I am so stuck. Please help!akurum