nendo's seesaw tables for marsotto edizioni softly rise up from the base

Note Design Studio has unveiled its latest furniture innovation: a sofa with an integrated side table, set to debut at Stockholm Design Week. This new design, part of the Rise collection for Swedish furniture brand Fogia, features an ash wood platform that extends beyond one end of the sofa to form a low, functional table. The designers highlight this integrated table as a 'bridge between the piece of furniture and the rest of the room,' offering a convenient surface for various items such as decorative objects, books, or plants, keeping them within easy reach. The Rise sofa is characterized by its rounded, soft cushions, which are upholstered in quilted fabric. The name 'Rise' itself is inspired by the shape of the rising sun, a concept that is visually echoed in the design of the seat backs, which are crafted to resemble the sun emerging over the horizon. This aesthetic choice aims to create a distinctive and elegant centerpiece suitable for both residential and commercial environments. Designed with versatility in mind, the Rise collection is intended for use in both domestic settings and public spaces, such as open-plan offices. The high back of the sofa serves a practical purpose, providing a visual and acoustic shield that can offer a sense of privacy and separation in open environments. This feature makes the sofa a functional as well as stylish choice for a variety of layouts. The collection offers sofas with and without armrests, catering to different preferences and spatial requirements. Additionally, the range includes a matching footstool, which also features the same distinct ash wood base and fabric upholstery, ensuring a cohesive aesthetic across the entire collection. The photographs showcasing the Rise collection were captured by Mathias Nero, emphasizing the design's elegant lines and integrated functionality. The Rise collection will be prominently displayed at the Stockholm Furniture and Lighting Fair. Concurrently, Note Design Studio will host an open exhibition at the Old Luma Factory during Stockholm Design Week, which commences shortly after the fair. These events will provide a platform for design enthusiasts and industry professionals to experience the innovative and versatile Rise sofa and its accompanying pieces firsthand. #NoteDesignStudio #Fogia #RiseSofa #IntegratedSideTable #StockholmDesignWeek #FurnitureDesign #InteriorDesign #ModularFurniture #ProductInnovation

The Zangbeto Side Table, designed by Salù Iwadi Studio, draws inspiration from the Zangbeto masquerade of the Ogu (Egùn) people in southwestern Nigeria. This wooden furniture piece translates the conical shape of the traditional Zangbeto costumes into a functional and aesthetically engaging side table. The design employs a structured composition of layered wooden fins, arranged radially in a spiraling configuration, which aims to capture the essence of the masquerade's spinning dances while ensuring the table's stability. The intricate arrangement of these fins is crafted to evoke the centrifugal energy and hypnotic motion characteristic of the Zangbeto performances. This creates an illusion of perpetual rotation, imbuing the static object with a dynamic, kinetic energy. The fins are meticulously hand-carved and taper upwards, balancing structural integrity with visual lightness. This tapering design not only mirrors the ascending movement of the Zangbeto dances but also creates an optical effect that suggests the table is levitating. Furthermore, the angular configuration of the fins allows the side table to serve a dual purpose as a bookshelf, providing support for books. The design incorporates negative space between the fins, which further contributes to the floating appearance and allows light to filter through, casting dynamic shadows that mimic the movement of the masquerade. The tabletop features carved spiral ridges that emanate outwards from the center. These concentric patterns symbolize the energy pathways and vibrations generated during the Zangbeto's ceremonial performances, and they also evoke the cosmic flow of energy and life, reinforcing themes of interconnectedness and cyclical renewal. This detail invites tactile interaction, allowing users to experience the narrative through touch as well as sight. The surface of the table exhibits alternating matte and polished finishes, which reflect the interplay of light and shadow observed during Zangbeto ceremonies. This contrast adds a dynamic visual texture, reminiscent of how light interacts with the raffia costumes during the ritual. The natural wood grain is prominently displayed, grounding the piece in its materiality and emphasizing its organic connection to the earth and its cultural roots. Salù Iwadi Studio prioritizes sustainability in the table's construction, utilizing sustainably sourced wood. This choice underscores the material's inherent beauty and aligns with traditional African practices that emphasize environmental harmony. The hand-carved details throughout the fins and tabletop demonstrate meticulous craftsmanship, honoring the intricate artistry and spiritual significance of the Zangbeto costumes. The layering and radial arrangement of the fins represent a modern reinterpretation of traditional construction methods, merging heritage with contemporary innovation. Ultimately, the Zangbeto Side Table serves as more than just a piece of furniture; it is an object that encourages engagement with cultural narratives. It celebrates and honors the Zangbeto as a cultural guardian, while also showcasing design's potential as a medium for storytelling, education, and cultural preservation. Through its thoughtful design and rich symbolism, the table invites an exploration of the interconnectedness of life, culture, and art, providing a contemporary perspective on West African traditions. #ZangbetoSideTable #SaluiwadiStudio #BeninCulture #NigerianArt #FurnitureDesign #WoodenFurniture #CulturalHeritage #SustainableDesign #HandCarved #KineticSculpture

Nendo, the renowned Japanese design studio, is set to unveil its innovative 'Print Chair' collection at the highly anticipated 'works by nendo' solo exhibition during Milan Design Week 2014. This new furniture series distinguishes itself through a unique approach to surface design, where diverse wood grain patterns are superimposed onto existing timber surfaces, creating distinctive visual textures. The collection explores the aesthetic interplay of various wood grains, incorporating details reminiscent of OSB laminate board, fir, pine, and oak. One of the key design philosophies behind the Print Chair involves a meticulous process of scanning existing wood surfaces and then reprinting these patterns onto the same wood, but at a different angle. This technique introduces a subtle yet impactful layer of visual complexity, transforming the perception of the natural material. Beyond traditional wood patterns, Nendo has also ventured into incorporating other material aesthetics, such as utilizing OSB laminate board for a chair's seat base and even printing a marble pattern onto wood. This experimental approach expands the boundaries of what is conventionally expected from wooden furniture. The studio emphasizes the critical role of advanced printing technology in achieving the desired results. This technology allows for precise adjustments in scale, density, and color, enabling Nendo to iterate and refine their designs. The ability to make fine-tuned modifications repeatedly is instrumental in accentuating the inherent charm and appeal of natural materials from multiple perspectives, ultimately enriching the visual and tactile experience of the furniture pieces. The Print Chair collection, therefore, represents a fusion of natural material beauty with contemporary digital printing capabilities. It not only celebrates the intrinsic qualities of wood but also reimagines how these qualities can be presented and perceived through innovative surface treatments. By layering and recontextualizing wood grain patterns, Nendo aims to offer a fresh interpretation of classic furniture forms, providing pieces that are both familiar in their material and novel in their aesthetic execution. This exhibition at Milan Design Week 2014 will showcase Nendo's continued commitment to pushing design boundaries and exploring the intersection of technology and natural forms in furniture design. #Nendo #PrintChair #WoodGrainPatterns #MilanDesignWeek2014 #FurnitureDesign #InnovativeMaterials #SurfaceDesign #JapaneseDesign #ChairDesign

The Monoplauto table, a new furniture design from Italian brand Miniforms, represents an evolution from its predecessor, Plauto. Designed by Paolo Cappello and Simone Sabatti, Monoplauto distinguishes itself with a monolithic, leaf-shaped base that provides a sturdy foundation for its tabletops. This design choice departs from the dual-leg structure of Plauto, aiming for a more robust and visually impactful aesthetic. The table is crafted by Italian artisans, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship in its construction. Monoplauto offers three distinct tabletop shapes: round, oval, and a new organic form. The organic shape is particularly noteworthy, characterized by fluid contours that are meticulously shaped by skilled artisans. This variety in tabletop geometries allows the Monoplauto to be versatile, making it suitable for a range of environments. It can seamlessly integrate into domestic settings, offering a focal point for dining or gathering spaces. In office environments, it can function as a communal table or a sophisticated workstation. Additionally, its distinctive design makes it a viable option for contract proposals, where unique and functional furniture is often sought. The collection also includes the Monoplauto MAXXXI variant, which features two of the distinctive leaf-shaped legs and is available in four different sizes, with the largest tabletop extending up to 6 meters. This larger version is particularly envisioned for office spaces, providing a vigorous and expressive centerpiece while retaining the elegant design lines that characterize the Monoplauto range. The design maintains a balanced relationship between its base and top, ensuring stability and visual harmony. The tables are entirely made of wood, enhancing their bold shapes and offering a tactile experience. This all-wood construction allows for various combinations of materials and sizes for the tabletop. Customers can choose to keep the natural wood finish, highlighting the inherent beauty and grain of the timber, or opt to pair it with ceramic tops, introducing a different texture and aesthetic dimension. This flexibility in customization further broadens the table's applicability and appeal, allowing it to adapt to diverse interior design schemes and user preferences. The Monoplauto collection thus embodies a blend of artistic design, functional versatility, and artisanal quality. #Miniforms #TableDesign #FurnitureDesign #ItalianDesign #HomeDecor #OfficeFurniture #ArtisanCraftsmanship #MonolithicDesign

The Toco Table, designed by Brazilian architect Leandro Garcia, is a modern furniture piece that features a cylindrical wooden base complemented by a circular glass top. This design choice highlights the natural beauty and grain of the wood, making it visible through the transparent surface. The glass top is designed to appear as if it floats above the domed wooden base, creating a sense of lightness and elegance. A subtle brass spacer detail serves as the only visible connection between the glass and the wood, emphasizing the minimalist aesthetic. Garcia, known for designing contemporary architectural spaces, extends his expertise to furniture creation with the Toco Table. The tables are available in various shapes and sizes, offering versatility for different interior arrangements. This allows for diverse configurations, whether used individually or grouped together to form a larger surface or a dynamic display. The different dimensions enable users to create multi-level compositions, adding visual interest and functionality to a space. The collection's adaptability makes it suitable for a range of settings, from living rooms to commercial waiting areas. The Toco Table series made its public debut at MADE São Paulo 2018, an event recognized for showcasing innovative design. The collection reflects a blend of functional design and artistic expression, characteristic of modern Brazilian furniture. The deliberate selection of materials—warm wood and clear glass—creates a harmonious contrast, contributing to a sophisticated and timeless appeal. The choice of a cylindrical base provides stability while maintaining a sleek profile. The design principle behind the Toco Table emphasizes simplicity and the inherent qualities of its materials. The transparency of the glass top not only allows for an appreciation of the wooden base but also contributes to an open and uncluttered feel within a room. This design approach aligns with contemporary trends that favor natural materials and unobtrusive forms. The attention to detail, such as the brass spacer, elevates the table from a mere functional item to a sculptural element within an interior space. Overall, the Toco Table by Leandro Garcia exemplifies a thoughtful integration of form, material, and function. It offers a contemporary solution for those seeking furniture that combines natural elements with modern design sensibilities. The table’s ability to be configured in multiple ways further enhances its appeal, providing flexibility for various design needs and personal preferences. #LeandroGarcia #FurnitureDesign #ModernFurniture #GlassTopTables #WoodenBases #InteriorDesign #ContemporaryDesign #BrazilianDesign #SideTables

Italian furniture brand Meridiani has unveiled its latest collection of dining tables, named Plinto, as part of its Editions series. This collection is distinguished by its sculptural design, offering a versatile range of shapes, sizes, and finishes to cater to diverse aesthetic preferences and interior styles. The core design element of the Plinto collection is its plinth-like metal base, which is available in two sophisticated finishes: matt black and bronzed brass. This robust base provides the fundamental framework for the tables, ensuring stability and a strong visual presence. Supporting the metal base are solid marble tops, which are a hallmark of luxury and durability. The collection provides a wide array of options for the tabletop's shape, including classic circular, rectangular, and square forms, as well as a distinctive octagonal design, allowing for various spatial configurations and design statements. Beyond shape, the Plinto tables offer an extensive selection of finishes for the tabletop. Customers can choose from opulent marble varieties such as Calacatta gold, known for its rich veining; Emperador brown, celebrated for its warm, deep tones; and Marquina black, which offers a striking contrast and modern appeal. In addition to marble, the collection features different shades of wood, providing natural warmth and texture, and various colors in lacquered finishes, which add a contemporary touch and a smooth, polished look. According to Meridiani, the design philosophy behind Plinto centers on an interplay of solids and voids. This concept is brought to life through the combination of the light structured metal bases with the substantial volumes of the tabletops, whether they are crafted from marble, wood, or lacquered materials. This approach allows for a dynamic and visually interesting furniture piece that can seamlessly integrate into various dining environments, from minimalist to more elaborate settings. The versatility extends to the base itself; the plinth-like metal structure can be either fully or partially covered by a solid block of material, further enhancing the sculptural quality and customization options of the tables. The entire Plinto collection is designed by Andrea Parisio, who has served as Meridiani's head designer and art director since the brand's inception. His consistent vision ensures that the collection embodies Meridiani's commitment to elegance, quality, and timeless design. Furthermore, all products within the Plinto collection are proudly 100 percent made in Italy, reflecting the brand's dedication to traditional craftsmanship and high-quality manufacturing standards. This commitment to Italian production guarantees authenticity and superior attention to detail in every piece. Meridiani, based in northern Italy, continues its tradition of creating sophisticated and functional furniture for contemporary living spaces. The Plinto collection stands as a testament to the brand's ability to combine classic materials with modern design principles, offering pieces that are both artful and practical. The range of choices in materials, shapes, and finishes allows clients to customize their dining tables to perfectly suit their individual tastes and interior design schemes, making the Plinto collection a significant addition to the brand's esteemed portfolio of furniture. This launch reinforces Meridiani’s position as a leader in high-end Italian furniture design, providing discerning customers with beautiful, durable, and versatile dining solutions. #Meridiani #PlintoCollection #DiningTables #FurnitureDesign #ItalianDesign #MarbleFurniture #AndreaParisio #LuxuryFurniture #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor

SolidNature, a Dutch stone supplier known for collaborating with architects and designers on custom projects, frequently accumulates offcuts from its high-profile commissions. Recognizing the potential in these leftover materials, the company engaged Budde, a design studio based in Cologne, Germany, to explore innovative ways to repurpose them. This collaboration resulted in the creation of 'Five x Seven,' a limited-edition furniture collection comprising five distinct tables: a console, and various coffee and side tables. The Budde studio, led by founders Johannes Budde and Meike Papenfuss, developed a concept that showcases the inherent beauty and variety of natural stone. The collection utilizes seven different types of stone, including marble, onyx, granite, and travertine, sourced from SolidNature's inventory of offcuts. Each table is meticulously crafted by combining slabs of these diverse stones, which are then layered together to create a visual effect reminiscent of sedimentary rock formations. A distinctive design element of the collection is a slim, carved arch integrated into all four sides of each piece. The layered construction of the tables results in muted stripes of cream, pink, green, and gray, offering a dynamic aesthetic that changes depending on the viewing angle. This design approach not only highlights the unique characteristics and rich color palette of each stone type but also addresses the issue of material waste by transforming what would otherwise be discarded into valuable and aesthetically pleasing furniture. The 'Five x Seven' collection is presented as a limited edition, emphasizing its exclusivity and artisanal nature. However, SolidNature also offers the possibility of custom pieces, allowing clients to commission tables tailored to their specific preferences and design needs, further expanding the collection's adaptability and appeal. The collection is exclusively available through the Rossana Orlandi Gallery, a renowned platform for contemporary design that champions innovative and sustainable practices. The partnership with Rossana Orlandi underscores the collection's artistic merit and its place within the high-end design market. By transforming remnants into sophisticated furniture, the 'Five x Seven' collection demonstrates a commitment to sustainable design principles while celebrating the enduring appeal and versatility of natural stone. #furnitureDesign #naturalStone #SolidNature #BuddeStudio #tableCollection #sustainableDesign #RossanaOrlandiGallery #interiorDecor #materialInnovation

This article, written by Ming Thompson, highlights the often-overlooked importance of side tables in interior design. Initially published on November 4, 2021, the post emphasizes that while major furniture pieces like sofas and dining tables usually dictate a design’s vision, side tables play a crucial supporting role in completing a living space. Side tables can serve as neutral complements to a furniture ensemble or introduce a playful juxtaposition through color or form. Unlike nightstands or bookshelves, their practical function is limited, requiring only a surface large enough for a small item like a book. This simplicity allows for greater design freedom, enabling them to be crafted from unconventional materials such as ceramic and cork, and to function as sculptural objects. The author presents a curated list of 15 side tables, all priced around $500, ranging from subtle and neutral to bold and fun. Each selection is chosen for its ability to hold a book and its height, ensuring it has a noticeable presence next to a sofa. The article details various options, starting with the Mila Scallop Ceramic Stool, praised for its indoor-outdoor versatility, fluted base, matte finish, and candy colors, which are noted to be trendy yet timeless. Another ceramic option, the Fluted Stool, is described as having a more subtle form, hand-molded in Vietnam, and suitable for tone-on-tone bedroom schemes. The Max Beam Side Table, designed by Ludovica + Roberto Palomba for Kartell, is highlighted as a modern classic due to its durable, gem-like plastic construction and vibrant color options, ideal for creating contrast or glowing with natural light. The Yeh Wall Table is noted for its unique, impish personality, using two skinny legs and a bent wafer-like top for support, making it a conversation starter. The Statuette Side Table is admired for its sculptural form, matte-black sandblasted texture, and feminine stacked base, capable of anchoring a room corner. The Arbon Terra Fab Accent Table, part of a Studio McGee collaboration with Target, offers a plaster-like finish that gives it a more expensive appearance and versatility for various decor styles. The Cork Trisse table is celebrated for its sustainable cork material, simple shape, and durability, emphasizing cork's potential beyond traditional uses. The iconic Aalto Stool 60, designed in 1933 by Alvar Aalto, is presented as a timeless classic with its simple three-legged design, available in various colors and upholstered tops, promising a lifetime of use. The Hay Slit Table, a product from the popular Danish brand, is favored in its tall gold version for its modern sensibility and clean lines. The Curved Side Table by Kristina Dam Studio exemplifies contemporary Scandinavian minimalism with its graphic, elegant, and restrained form, featuring practical storage pockets. The Sentrum Side Table from Danish brand Woud balances curves and straight lines in painted steel, offering smart storage pockets and a unique, less common aesthetic. Lastly, the Two-Way Side Table, a MoMA-developed piece, offers quirky color combinations and transparent acrylic, creating unexpected visual effects with light and shadow. The Contrast Table, a flat-packed design by Tortuga, combines a rectangle, triangle, and circle to form a striking piece, which can also serve as an extra seat. The Tenon Table from Akron Street involves the user in its assembly with an oak mallet, celebrating traditional woodcraft. Finally, the Resident Offset Stool, though slightly above the $500 limit, is lauded for its asymmetrical design and versatility, capable of transforming its look by rotating its offset legs. #SideTables #HomeDecoration #InteriorDesign #Furniture #DesignTrends #ModernClassics #AaltoStool #SustainableDesign #SpaceCompleting

The Designated Side Table, a collaborative creation by 808:studio and designer YuoNing Chien, merges the disciplines of graphic design and furniture functionality. This piece is distinguished by a cohesive design where geometric shapes, which adorn the tabletop, seamlessly extend downward to form the supporting legs. This integration not only creates visual interest but also emphasizes the craftsmanship inherent in the collection. The design philosophy behind the Designated Side Table focuses on a harmonious connection between all its components, with each supporting pole directly reflecting the geometric motifs present on the tabletop. This thoughtful approach ensures that the table functions as a unified whole rather than a collection of separate parts. In terms of practicality, the tabletop graphics are strategically designed to delineate intuitive and convenient spaces for various items, such as vases or mobile phones. This intentional design transforms the side table into a versatile piece of furniture suitable for multiple uses, including serving as a bedside nightstand. Constructed from durable pine wood, the table's material choice contributes to its portability and ensures its longevity. This selection of material underscores the balance between aesthetic contribution and lasting functional presence that the designers aimed to achieve. The design is intended to be both a visually appealing addition to a room and a highly practical item for everyday use. Project details specify 808:studio and YuoNing Chien as the designers, with photography credited to Agota Lukyte. This project was submitted through designboom's DIY submissions feature, which highlights work from emerging and established designers. The Designated Side Table exemplifies how graphic elements can be translated into three-dimensional forms, enhancing both the aesthetic and utility of a furniture piece. The use of geometric patterns is not merely decorative but foundational to the table's structure and overall design language, making it a distinctive item in contemporary furniture design. The collaboration highlights a multidisciplinary approach to product development, bringing together artistic expression and practical application in a single, well-executed design. #furnitureDesign #sideTable #geometricShapes #woodenFurniture #productDesign #graphicDesign #808Studio #YuoNingChien #homeDecoration

The CORNICE stacking stool, designed by Tokyo-based industrial designer Nao Iwamatsu, was presented at SaloneSatellite 2025. This design integrates principles of ‘Narrative Minimalism’ and structural rhythm, utilizing slender wood offcuts to form a composition that balances functionality with architectural references. The stool draws inspiration from decorative cornices found in Western architecture and the rhythmic beam structures characteristic of Japanese temple ceilings. Its stepped form creates a rhythmic visual effect when multiple stools are stacked, while also maintaining a strong sculptural presence as an individual piece. Iwamatsu conceived CORNICE to complement quiet, refined interiors, allowing it to serve multiple purposes: as a seating element, a side table, or a sculptural statement piece. The construction of CORNICE involves 13mm wooden pieces bonded with domino joints, which ensures structural integrity. A key aspect of its design is the repurposing of collected wood offcuts, highlighting a commitment to material efficiency and sustainable craftsmanship. This approach not only minimizes waste but also imbues each piece with a unique character derived from the varied wood grains and tones. The stool is designed for flat-pack shipping, a feature that optimizes material use further by reducing packaging volume and lowering transportation costs and environmental impact. The prototype shown was crafted from teak, but the design allows for variations in other wood types, such as oak, offering diverse aesthetic finishes to suit different interior styles. This adaptability in material choice ensures that CORNICE can seamlessly integrate into a wide range of contemporary spaces, from minimalist urban apartments to more traditionally styled homes. Functionally, CORNICE is versatile. As a stool, it provides comfortable seating; as a side table, it offers a convenient surface for holding various items. When multiple units are stacked, they form a cohesive and visually interesting structure that can serve as a decorative element, transforming from a utilitarian object into an art piece. The interplay of structure and rhythm is central to CORNICE’s architectural presence, allowing it to stand out while harmonizing with its surroundings. This dual functionality and aesthetic appeal make CORNICE a thoughtful addition to any living environment, reflecting a blend of Japanese design sensibilities and sustainable practices. The project showcases how industrial design can combine practical utility with artistic expression and environmental responsibility. #NaoIwamatsu #StackableStool #WoodenFurniture #IndustrialDesign #NarrativeMinimalism #SustainableCraftsmanship #SaloneSatellite2025 #FunctionalSculpture #FlatPackDesign

RockPaperRobot, a company founded by MIT-trained roboticist Jessica Banks, is making waves in the furniture design world with its innovative, physics-defying creations. Blending scientific principles with modern aesthetics, the company positions its products as functional art, rather than conventional furniture. Banks' background, including studies in Humanoid Robotics and teaching in civil and environmental engineering at MIT, provides a unique foundation for her approach to design. Central to RockPaperRobot's offerings is the Float Collection, which includes levitating tables and shelves. A notable example is the Float Table, crafted from magnetized wooden blocks interconnected by tensile steel cables. This design allows the table to subtly respond to weight with a brief, elastic movement before returning to its stable form, giving the illusion of levitation. The collection also features similar levitating shelf designs. The company's latest introduction is the Ollie Chair, a product designed to address the challenges of space constraints, particularly for urban dwellers. This chair utilizes origami-inspired folding techniques, enabling it to collapse into a slim, two-inch-flat frame with a simple tug of a string. The design emphasizes both kinetics and aesthetics, providing a practical solution without compromising on visual appeal. A key feature highlighted for the Ollie Chair is its integrated lumbar support, a rare attribute in many foldable chair designs, which enhances comfort and usability. To facilitate the launch of the Ollie Chair, RockPaperRobot initiated a crowdfunding campaign on Kickstarter. The campaign demonstrated significant early success, raising 70% of its funding goal within just three days. The chair is available in various finishes, including a teak option priced at $275, and felt and distressed paint finishes for $450. Interested consumers and supporters are directed to the Kickstarter page for pre-orders and further details. RockPaperRobot also offers customization options for its Float collection, extending beyond the standard wooden and metallic finishes. The company encourages prospective buyers to visit its website for more information on available products and custom orders. A promotional video showcasing the Ollie Chair is also available to provide a dynamic demonstration of its features and functionality. The company's unique blend of advanced robotics knowledge and design principles distinguishes its furniture as a distinctive category of functional art. #FurnitureDesign #RoboticsInDesign #InnovativeFurniture #SpaceSavingFurniture #OllieChair #FloatCollection #JessicaBanks #ModernDesign