Japanese zen gardens inspired the sinuous design of this shapeshifting timber table

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

The Swedish design firm Claesson Koivisto Rune collaborated with the Italian furniture manufacturer Arflex to create the 'Bonsai' upholstered seating collection. This collection draws inspiration from Japanese culture and aesthetics, specifically referencing the meticulously manicured, cloud-like forms of bushes and shrubs found in traditional Japanese gardens. The soft and curvy shapes of the seating pieces are a direct translation of these natural elements into furniture design. The 'Bonsai' collection features low, rectilinear wooden bases that support the rounded, upholstered tops. This design choice is a nod to the Japanese practice of 'tokonoma,' where cherished items, such as a bonsai tree, are displayed on horizontal surfaces to create a focal point. By emulating this traditional display method, the 'Bonsai' seating aims to elevate the upholstered components, treating them as objects of art or contemplation within a living space. The collection includes both sofa and pouf configurations, offering versatility in furnishing various interior environments. A distinctive optional feature of the 'Bonsai' seating is an integrated lamp. This lamp incorporates a draped, flowing fabric shade, contributing to the soft and organic aesthetic of the collection. Additionally, the lamp design includes a recessed stone plate, further grounding the piece in natural materials and textures. The combination of these elements — the rounded, organic forms, the low wooden bases, and the integrated lighting with natural accents — creates a harmonious and serene furniture collection that reflects a deep appreciation for Japanese design principles. The collaboration between Claesson Koivisto Rune and Arflex showcases a successful fusion of Scandinavian design sensibilities with Italian craftsmanship, all while being profoundly influenced by Eastern cultural practices. #BonsaiSeating #JapaneseCulture #ClaessonKoivistoRune #Arflex #FurnitureDesign #UpholsteredSeating #InteriorDesign #ScandinavianDesign #ItalianCraftsmanship

The ancient Japanese woodworking technique known as kumiko, which originated in the Asuka period (538 to 710 C.E.), involves precisely cutting thin wood slats to interlock into repeating geometric patterns. Initially used for screens and inlaid furniture panels, kumiko has evolved into a celebrated art form with its own distinct designs. This art will be featured at the 43rd annual Smithsonian Craft Show in Washington, D.C., held from April 24 to 27. The show will present the work of 120 American artists across various disciplines, with selections based on originality, artistic conception, beauty, and quality. Among the featured artists is David Gootnick, a D.C.-based kumiko craftsman. Gootnick utilizes Alaskan yellow cedar, transforming a five-foot-long plank into intricate, often less than two-millimeter-thick pieces. He emphasizes the importance of consistent wood thickness and precise angle cuts for the lattice-like designs. Gootnick, a lifelong woodworker, discovered kumiko ten years ago through online practitioners, including Australian expert Des King. He began by incorporating kumiko into cabinetry panels before creating self-contained wall art. While adhering to traditional Japanese motifs like hexagons and equilateral triangles, Gootnick adds contemporary elements such as darker redheart or Osage woods for color contrast and incorporates colorful cloth backings. He also introduces his own variations, including rosettes and lanterns, reminiscent of mission furniture. Although traditional kumiko relies solely on pressure from precisely cut angles, Gootnick uses a small dot of glue for enhanced longevity, ensuring his pieces endure for centuries. Another artisan showcasing kumiko at the Craft Show is Michael Jury from Springfield, Virginia. Jury, primarily known for his handmade Shaker- and Danish-inspired furniture, integrates traditional kumiko patterns into his cabinets and tables. He crafts basswood into small components to form the 'asa-no-ha' (hemp leaf) pattern. Jury has also used kumiko panels as sliding doors for a sideboard, backed with black momigami (kneaded paper), a piece that has received critical acclaim, including “best in show” awards at several exhibits. Gootnick notes his continuous improvement in the kumiko process, observing that a piece that once took him a month to complete can now be finished in two weeks, with a cleaner and more precise result. This evolution reflects a dedication to achieving closer to perfection in his craft. #Kumiko #JapaneseWoodworking #GeometricPatterns #SmithsonianCraftShow #DavidGootnick #WoodArt #Craftsmanship #Artisan #HomeDecor

The "Designated Side Table" collection, created by Milan-based Taiwanese designer YuoNing Chien of 808: Studio, was unveiled at Milan Design Week 2024. This furniture series features a distinctive and integrated design where geometric shapes serve as both aesthetic elements and structural supports. The tabletops of these side tables incorporate cut-outs designed for holding various items, such as vases or mobile phones. A key design innovation is that these distinct geometric shapes, differentiated by their interior colors, extend seamlessly through the solid pine wood surface to form the supporting legs of the tables. This approach transforms negative space into a functional and tangible component of the furniture. Chien's design philosophy emphasizes the unification of elements rather than their separation. The concept of the shapes acting as both voids and supports highlights a thoughtful craftsmanship, moving beyond traditional furniture construction where components are typically designed independently. The designer aimed to create a visual and functional coherence where every part contributes to the overall structure and aesthetic, making the connection between form and function evident and surprising. This integrated design was not accidental but a deliberate effort to create a harmonious piece where every detail is interconnected. Each side table in the collection is meticulously crafted from solid pine wood, a material chosen for its enduring quality and classic appeal. This choice of material underscores the collection's focus on durability and timelessness. The inherent properties of pine wood contribute to the tables' robustness, ensuring they are not only visually appealing but also built to last. The use of a natural material like pine also adds a warmth and organic texture to the contemporary geometric forms. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the Designated Side Tables are designed with versatility in mind. Their combination of sophisticated design and practical functionality allows them to blend seamlessly into various interior settings within a home. Whether used in a living room, bedroom, or entryway, these tables can serve multiple purposes, from holding everyday essentials to acting as decorative display surfaces. The collection aims to provide a functional piece of furniture that enhances the overall ambiance of a space through its unique design and material integrity. The collection reflects a modern approach to furniture design, where innovation in form is matched by a commitment to functional utility and material quality. #FurnitureDesign #SideTables #YuoNingChien #MilanDesignWeek #GeometricShapes #PineWood #ModernFurniture #InteriorDesign #ProductInnovation

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids, Michigan, hosts an eight-acre Japanese garden designed by Hoichi Kurisu, offering visitors a profound connection to nature through traditional Japanese garden practices. Senior Vice President Steve LaWarre highlights the garden's unique ability to transform perception across seasons, even when covered in snow, encouraging introspection and renewal through ancient design principles. The garden, inspired by Frederik Meijer's early 2000s trip to Japan, was a five-year collaborative effort with Kurisu and recently celebrated its tenth anniversary. Winter provides a distinct experience within the garden, characterized by a profound quietness. The tranquil, snow-covered landscape emphasizes the garden's underlying structure, with boulders and rocks painted white, cold-hardy bamboo standing tall, and softly trickling water features. This stripped-back aesthetic embodies 'wabi-sabi,' celebrating imperfection, simplicity, and subtle beauty. In Japanese tradition, winter is seen as a time to appreciate the garden's bones and structure, with snow viewed as another form of blossoming, representing 'mujō' or impermanence, akin to the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms. As spring arrives, the garden quickly bursts with color. The initial flush of chartreuse green leaves offers a stark and joyful contrast to the dark stems of trees. Conifers form the garden's structural backbone, providing evergreen color year-round and serving as iconic elements shaped through 'niwaki' pruning. This artful technique creates exaggerated, airy, and asymmetrical silhouettes, mimicking natural forces. The garden also features a vast bonsai collection displayed from spring to fall, including acers, pines, and flowering varieties like azaleas, showcasing sculptural pruning on a smaller scale. Spring unfolds with 'ephemeral waves of bloom,' starting with flowering cherry blossoms in late April along the Cherry Tree Promenade, symbolizing transient beauty. This is followed by serviceberry, vibrant azaleas, and water lilies, ensuring continuous floral displays throughout the growing season. In autumn, Japanese maples of various shapes and sizes transform the landscape with fiery hues of orange, red, and yellow, extending the garden's colorful journey. The garden integrates traditional Japanese structures, such as a teahouse, which was constructed in Japan from authentic materials, dismantled, and reassembled in Michigan. The teahouse, with its hand-bent copper roof and traditional tatami mats, offers an accessible space for tea ceremonies ('sadō' or 'chadō'). These ceremonies, deeply rooted in Zen Buddhist philosophy, promote mindful reflection and connection. The garden also includes a 'karesansui' or zen garden, a dry gravel garden where horticulturists create intricate patterns with traditional Japanese rakes, forming a living artwork that changes with the seasons and represents natural elements. Water is a central element, with the main pond's 'kanji' shape symbolizing the spiritual heart. Islands and a network of bridges guide visitors, always keeping the water in sight. A viewing hill provides panoramic views of the garden and pond. The water symbolizes renewal and purification, offering a space for meditation and introspection. Four waterfalls, representing masculine and feminine energies, create sensory sound and movement. The garden's integration of centuries-old tradition with modern art, including permanent sculptures that embody humanity's connection to nature, creates a timeless living masterpiece. Hoichi Kurisu's design intentionally guides visitors through varied spaces, from intimate pathways to expansive views, fostering new discoveries and a deeper appreciation for nature's asymmetrical balance. Visitors can incorporate elements like asymmetry, water features, and embracing the winter garden into their own outdoor spaces to create tranquil moments. #JapaneseGarden #GardenDesign #Horticulture #CulturalHub #ZenGarden #Teahouse #SeasonalBeauty #Bonsai #LandscapeArchitecture

This article highlights 12 furniture designs and interior products crafted from wood, all of which have been featured on Dezeen Showroom. The collection demonstrates the enduring versatility, durability, and aesthetic appeal of timber, a material that has been utilized in furniture making for thousands of years. Wood is also recognized as a sustainable choice due to its renewable nature and low embodied carbon footprint. The featured designs encompass a wide array of wood types, including Douglas fir, cherry, oak, walnut, beech, maple, and acacia. Each species contributes a unique tone and grain pattern, allowing for diverse aesthetic outcomes, whether left in its natural state or treated with paints and varnishes. The showcased products range from seating with organic shapes to lighting fixtures, illustrating the material's adaptability across different product categories. Among the featured items is the 4PM chaise longue by Massproductions, designed to offer comfort without upholstery and available in laminated Douglas fir or cherry wood, with a self-build option inspired by Enzo Mari. Yamagiwa's rereleased Taliesin lamps, originally by Frank Lloyd Wright, utilize oak, cherry, or walnut to create a distinctive lighting effect through rotating wooden boxes. Appareil Atelier's Elsie chair collection showcases gentle, rounded forms in timber, featuring a semi-circular seat and a curved backrest. The Spectrum Workstation Round ST160, a collaboration between Geckeler Michels and Karimoku, is a versatile table with a round top and splayed legs, available in natural or black wood. Ben McCarthy's Hollywood seating collection for Gohome offers stackable chairs and bar stools in oak, with a simple silhouette reminiscent of traditional director's chairs. Blu Dot's Hoard Storage Tables are characterized by biomorphic shapes and hollow interiors, made from black-finished or natural acacia wood. Koyori's minimalist Shaku Chair, designed by Ronan & Erwan Bouroullec, is composed of six individual components from black-stained beech wood. Konstantin Grcic's Bench collection for Plank includes a wooden bench and table, designed for easy assembly and disassembly. Neri&Hu;'s 98.6°F outdoor collection for De La Espada features various outdoor furniture pieces made from Croatian white oak, chosen for its resistance to rot. Patrick Norguet's Sova Lounge chair for Zanat boasts a solid wood frame available in maple, walnut, or oak, sourced from sustainably managed forests. Studio Lloyd's Sayari outdoor furniture collection, including a daybed and side table, uses eucalyptus globulus hardwood and features organic shapes. Lastly, Harri Korhonen's Naku Stack chair for Inno is a minimalist, stackable design in birch, ash, or oak, suitable for public spaces. These examples collectively highlight wood's continued relevance and innovative applications in contemporary furniture and product design. #WoodDesign #FurnitureDesign #InteriorProducts #SustainableMaterials #DezeenShowroom #LightingDesign #Seating #Tables #TimberCraft

The Axis Side Table, a collaboration between designer Omayra Maymó and Kristina Dam Studio, reinterprets the traditional trolley cart, focusing on its function as a stationary side table rather than a mobile unit. While trolley or bar carts are typically designed for portability within residential settings, Maymó observed that these pieces of furniture often remain in a fixed location once positioned. This observation led to the creation of the Axis Side Table, which de-emphasizes mobility in favor of aesthetic and architectural expression. Crafted entirely from solid oak wood, the Axis Side Table highlights the natural beauty and warmth of the material. Its design departs from the conventional trolley archetype by omitting typical features such as a handle and four wheels, though the piece retains a degree of mobility if needed. The absence of these elements contributes to the table's unique and minimalist appearance, giving it a distinct architectural quality. The design is characterized by its asymmetry and very minimal composition, which serves to underscore its role as a functional and sculptural piece of furniture within a space. By stripping away components traditionally associated with mobility, Maymó was able to concentrate on the table's form, texture, and inherent material qualities. This approach transforms a typically utilitarian item into a sophisticated design element that can anchor a room. The Axis Side Table is designed to seamlessly integrate into various interior design schemes, offering both practical surface space and a strong visual statement. Its geometrical form provides a contemporary edge, while the solid oak construction ensures durability and a timeless appeal. The table’s design allows it to function effectively as a standalone piece or as a complement to existing furnishings, adding an element of modern simplicity. Through this design, Maymó and Kristina Dam Studio offer a fresh perspective on furniture utility and aesthetics. The Axis Side Table challenges preconceived notions of how a trolley-inspired piece should function in a home, advocating for a design that prioritizes static presence and visual artistry. This piece represents a thoughtful balance between historical furniture forms and contemporary design principles, making it suitable for modern living spaces that value understated elegance and functional art. #SideTable #FurnitureDesign #KristinaDamStudio #OmayraMaymo #SolidOak #MinimalistDesign #HomeFurnishings #InteriorDesign #ModernFurniture

The selection and implementation of furniture joints are crucial to both the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of a design. Contemporary furniture design seeks to integrate both beauty and functionality, moving beyond a trade-off between the two. Understanding various joint types opens up possibilities for creating diverse and robust furniture pieces. This article highlights several innovative examples of furniture design, each showcasing unique approaches to joinery. One such example is the Recess Table by Nina Cho. This piece redefines traditional table construction by integrating the legs into the tabletop's form, eliminating separate leg elements. The design features a tubular cavity and a circular recess within the tabletop, providing spaces for personalization, decoration, or storage. The table's structure ensures easy assembly without additional work. Nina Cho's design philosophy emphasizes minimalism and functionality, which is evident in the Recess Table's cohesive and practical form. Another innovative creation is the Wabi-Sabi Bed by Ethan Stebbins. Inspired by Japanese craftsmanship, Stebbins utilizes Japanese interlocking joinery methods with locally sourced materials from coastal Maine. This approach results in simple, stable, and durable beds that exude an exclusive luxury feel. The design highlights the natural beauty and raw textures of the materials, offering a fresh perspective on furniture design by drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape. Stefan Diez, a German industrial designer, introduced the conceptual Boa table system. This system is based on aluminum tubes and was developed in association with BOA for HAY. Diez is known for his material experimentation and his belief that design should produce high-quality, long-lasting goods for future generations. The Boa system exemplifies this philosophy through its innovative use of materials and modular design. The Anvil console table by Erika Cross Studio offers a long-lasting furniture solution with straightforward joinery. Its whimsical appearance comes from rounded edges that soften otherwise sharp angles. The studio incorporates materials such as cork, Baltic birch, and ebonized or natural ash in its design. The solid forms of the Anvil evoke abstract planes, contributing to its distinctive aesthetic. Finally, the Embrace sideboard by Teixeira Design Studio showcases both storage utility and aesthetic appeal. This piece features unique joints and soft curves, designed to blend harmoniously with various interiors while providing clever hidden storage and cable management solutions. The studio's founder emphasizes that "Design is simply an attitude," reflecting the thoughtful integration of form and function in the Embrace sideboard. These examples demonstrate diverse strategies in furniture joinery, ranging from enhancing durability to maximizing visual appeal. Each design integrates these aspects, proving that it is possible to achieve both strength and aesthetic beauty in furniture construction. #FurnitureDesign #JoineryTechniques #InnovativeDesign #Woodworking #MinimalistDesign #JapaneseCraftsmanship #SustainableMaterials #InteriorDesign

With the arrival of spring, outdoor activities become more appealing, and gardening is a popular pastime in warmer weather. While traditional backyard gardening is an option for some, those without access to a large outdoor space can still engage in gardening by utilizing plant pots. This article focuses on the creation of a miniature Zen garden, offering a unique and calming approach to gardening that can be done from the comfort of one's home. A Zen garden, characterized as a dry landscape garden, typically incorporates plants, mosses, trees, and shrubs, as explained by Michele Macula, a staff member at Lifestyles for the Disabled's greenhouse. These gardens are known for providing a sense of peace and tranquility. Macula demonstrated the construction of a miniature Zen garden using readily available materials at the greenhouse, making the process accessible for individuals to replicate in their own homes. The initial step in creating a miniature Zen garden involves gathering decorative elements. Macula's example included rocks, crushed seashells, and colored glass, suggesting a variety of materials can be used to personalize the garden. Once the decorations are assembled, the planting phase begins. Plants are strategically placed around the edge of a flowerpot, with an emphasis on experimentation and personal preference in their arrangement. Macula highlights the calming and relaxing benefits of Zen gardens, regardless of their size. The specific miniature Zen garden she demonstrated featured an aloe vera plant, various succulents, moss, and rocks, showcasing the diversity in landscaping elements that can be incorporated. The process was explained to members of the Greenhouse at Lifestyles for the Disabled, emphasizing the educational and therapeutic aspects of the activity. To enhance the serene atmosphere, a miniature Buddha statue was added, alongside crushed shells and blue glass arranged within a shell to simulate a water feature. This combination of elements contributes to the overall 'zen' feeling of the garden. The finished product, complete with the blue glass water feature, the Buddha statue, and different types of rocks, creates a harmonious and relaxing miniature landscape. Ultimately, miniature Zen gardens serve as an easily accessible avenue for relaxation, benefiting both the creator and the plants involved. As one of the contributors, Aaron Bialer, observed, the process is akin to 'building a home for the plants.' The article concludes by encouraging individuals to embrace and enjoy the positive energy that their newly constructed Zen garden brings, reinforcing the idea of these gardens as sources of calm and well-being. #ZenGarden #MiniatureGarden #DIYGardening #IndoorGardening #Relaxation #HomeDecoration #GardeningTips #Mindfulness #SpringActivities

The "Bolete" table series, a collaboration between Hong Kong-based architect and sculptor Henry D’Ath and design-art duo Batten and Kamp, introduces a family of limited-edition coffee and side tables. These pieces are distinguished by their mushroom-like forms, crafted from hand-carved solid wood and natural stone. The design integrates the sculptural weight typical of permanent furniture with a flexible, modular approach that features configurable, overlapping surfaces. The genesis of the Bolete series traces back to a custom commission where Batten and Kamp recognized a natural synergy between D’Ath’s carved wood creations and their signature raw stone bases. This initial insight led to the formal collaboration and the development of the Bolete collection, emphasizing a harmonious blend of two distinct material elements. Each table in the Bolete series is meticulously carved by Henry D’Ath, who allows the intrinsic patterns of the wood grain and the natural contours of the stone to guide the creation of subtly organic shapes. The wooden tops are available in two finishes: a natural, sealed varnish that highlights the wood's inherent beauty, or a glossy black finish achieved through layers of calligraphy ink. The choice of wood for the tops is Camphor, a variety prevalent in China and Japan, known for its aromatic properties and natural insect-repellent qualities. For the bases, raw Taishan Granite stones are used. These stones are culturally significant, often featured in Zen gardens, and are admired for their grey-white hues, reminiscent of the dramatic Karst Mountains. Each granite base is individually sourced and intentionally left untreated, ensuring that every table possesses a unique character. The collaboration is deeply rooted in the shared heritage and mutual admiration among Alexandra Batten, Daniel Kamp, and Henry D’Ath, all originally from New Zealand but now working together in a Hong Kong studio. This shared background is reflected in the design philosophy, which embraces natural materials, robust forms, and simplicity—elements integral to New Zealand aesthetics—while also incorporating local materials and subtle Zen influences. Alexandra Batten describes the collaboration as effortless, stemming from a lifelong connection and shared artistic vision. Initially launched as a side table in 2023, the Bolete series has expanded to include coffee tables. The modular nature of the design is key, allowing for diverse configurations and sizes through the arrangement of overlapping surfaces, which enhances the collection's adaptability and aesthetic appeal. The tables are produced in limited editions, with eight pieces plus four artist proofs available per configuration, highlighting their exclusivity. Plans are underway to exhibit the series in major art and design hubs, such as New York or Paris, in 2025, further solidifying its presence in the global design landscape. The project was submitted through a DIY submission feature, reflecting a direct engagement with the creative community. #FurnitureDesign #Woodwork #StoneCraft #TableDesign #ModularDesign #LimitedEdition #DesignCollaboration #NaturalMaterials #HandCarved

The Egon Side Table, a new addition to the Egon furniture collection by Iratzoki Lizaso for Alki, offers a versatile and practical solution for various informal settings. This solid wood auxiliary table is designed to complement the existing collection, which includes a sofa system, coffee tables, and poufs, all intended for lounge and informal office spaces. The primary function of the Egon Side Table is to provide a convenient and easily movable surface. Its design caters to the dynamic needs of modern workspaces and living areas, making it suitable for collaborative tasks, holding beverages, or serving as a temporary workstation for laptops and other electronic devices. A key feature of the Egon Side Table is its height adjustability. This design element enhances its adaptability, allowing it to conform to different user preferences and situations, whether it's being used for working, casual dining, or simply holding a drink. The table's solid wood construction emphasizes durability and a timeless aesthetic, aligning with the overall design philosophy of the Egon collection. The portability and functional design make it a useful item for environments where flexibility and informal interaction are prioritized. This piece reflects a contemporary approach to furniture design, focusing on utility, ergonomic considerations, and aesthetic integration within a broader collection of furniture. #SideTable #FurnitureDesign #HomeFurnishings #OfficeFurniture #VersatileDesign #SolidWood #IratzokiLizaso #Alki

This article explores the preferred tableware shopping destinations of 12 interior designers, offering insights into curating elegant and functional tablescapes for various occasions. The article highlights a range of sources, from high-end luxury brands to artisanal boutiques, vintage shops, and more affordable retailers, demonstrating how design professionals approach selecting plates, bowls, platters, glassware, flatware, and linens. Vicky Charles of Charles & Co emphasizes attention to detail and frequently turns to Abask for its exquisite selection of plates, bowls, and serving pieces that combine timeless elegance with an organic, natural finish. Abask's unique textures and muted tones provide a versatile canvas for relaxed yet elevated dining experiences. For a more opulent and eclectic touch, Charles also recommends RW Guild, known for its globally sourced artisanal pieces with rich, earthy tones, and Il Buco Vita for vintage-inspired glassware and luxurious table linens that blend beauty and functionality. Emily Ward and Louisa Pierce of Pierce and Ward adopt a personalized approach, mixing antique, vintage, and new items across different price points to reflect clients' personalities and lifestyles. They prioritize durability and longevity, recommending Heath Ceramics for plates and bowls, Studio Ford for cotton napkins and tablecloths, and Jean Dubost Laguiole Steak knives, particularly those with brass accents. Pembrooke & Ives, a New York design studio, suggests Mary Mahoney for high-end brands like Hermes and Bernardaud, ideal for refined and elegant tables. For a contemporary aesthetic, MAX ID offers unique geometric table pieces. They also favor Abask and David Mellor, the latter for its diverse range of porcelain from various countries. Paige Wassel, director of Paige Wassel, expresses a strong preference for thrifting tableware, actively searching Etsy for vintage cutlery, etched coupes, everyday drinking glasses, and hand-fired bowls and plates with artisan stamps. She also appreciates Japanese handmade ceramics and opts for more affordable finds due to her tendency to break glasses. Laura Lubin of Ellerslie Interiors recommends Sasha Nicholas for stunning handcrafted tableware, including chargers and dinner plates with intricate, timeless designs, and Hudson Grace for rich, saturated linens and napkins that add depth and character. Gideon Mendelson, founder of Mendelson Group, categorizes his recommendations by formality. For formal settings, he suggests Bergdorf Goodman, Bernardaud, and Christofle. For casual or everyday use, Heath Ceramics, Mondays, Wilcoxson, and Camille at the Wheel are preferred. For more affordable options, Williams-Sonoma and Crate & Barrel are highlighted. Dan Mazzarini of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE is a fan of splatterware from March SF. He looks to Ralph Lauren for timeless stemware and CB2 for budget-friendly tumblers and glasses. Mazzarini enjoys mixing modern cutlery from Wayfair with vintage and antique finds, and stresses the importance of linen napkins, properly starched and ironed. He also advises incorporating lighting, such as smoked hurricanes from March SF and portable table lamps. Kathy Kuo of Kathy Kuo Home recommends her own brand for its extensive collection of dishes, glassware, linens, and flatware, featuring a variety of styles, materials, and vendors like Simon Pearce, Juliska, Vietri, Villeroy & Boch, and L'Objet. Kishani Perara, founder of Kishani Perara, likes TABLE ART, Bergdorf Goodman, Artemest, Il Buco, and Sharland England for tableware and candlesticks. She emphasizes the value of incorporating special family pieces or vintage finds from platforms like Etsy, eBay, Chairish, and 1stDibs. Darren Henault of Darren Henault Interiors champions Julia B. Casa in Florence for its spectacular embroidery and appliqué, and E. Braun on Park Avenue for timeless and luxurious selections. He collects a variety of dish patterns, including Herend's Rothschild, Fischcale, and Chinese Bouquet, and Royal Crown Derby's Midori Meadow, which he mixes and matches. For glassware, he particularly values Lobmeyr water glasses from Vienna for their delicate elegance. Finally, Gray Walker of Gray Walker Interiors prefers simple linen hem stitch tablecloths and napkins, often with festive embroidery. She builds tablescapes around specific decorations, combining sterling silver, Tiffany china and crystal, and clippings from her garden. She collects table linens from sources like Schweitzer Linens. Josh Greene of Josh Greene Design recommends Collecto for quality dining ware, including traditional Italian and whimsical floral china, and Abask for its diverse independent designs. For luxurious occasions, Tiffany is a staple, while West Elm is suggested for more affordable, classic dining sets. #InteriorDesign #Tableware #HomeDecor #Tablescapes #DesignersChoice #LuxuryHome #VintageDecor #KitchenDecor #DiningRoom

Japanese architect Yo Shimada, from Tato Architects, has conceptualized a modular, multifunctional coffee table named Utsuri, designed to be constructed by consumers using readily available materials from DIY stores. This initiative was commissioned by the German DIY retailer Hornbach, emphasizing a do-it-yourself approach rather than purchasing an assembled product. Consumers are provided with a set of instructions, available in a book sold by Hornbach, to guide them through the assembly process. The Utsuri table is intentionally designed to be affordable, with all necessary materials costing less than 150 euros. These basic components are widely accessible not only at Hornbach but also at other hardware stores, promoting a broad appeal and ease of replication. The design addresses the common challenge of limited living space by offering a versatile storage solution. The coffee table features three white-painted birch plywood tops, arranged at varying heights and mounted on dowel legs. These tops are shaped as multiple overlaid squares, forming a clustered arrangement. A key feature of the design is its rotatable elements; the three interconnecting tables can be independently rotated around their shared legs, allowing for various configurations to suit different needs and spaces. This adaptability makes the table suitable for diverse contexts and occasions, mirroring the functionality of traditional Japanese furniture. Adding an aesthetic dimension, the undersides of the table tops are spray-painted with neon colors. These vibrant undersides cast a warm, colored glow onto the white surfaces below, with the intensity of the illumination changing throughout the day. This visual effect is inspired by the reflections of neon signs on wet streets in Kobe, Japan, demonstrating Shimada's integration of local cultural and environmental observations into his design. Shimada's concept for the Utsuri table draws inspiration from the Japanese chabudai table. The chabudai is a traditional low-lying table with collapsible legs, often used in tatami rooms, which transforms the room's function throughout the day—from dining to tea ceremonies or work, and then making way for futons at night. This historical precedent underscores the Utsuri table's core principle of adaptability and space optimization. The Utsuri table is Hornbach's second collaboration with an architect for a DIY design edition, following a lounge chair by Sigurd Larsen. The project's instructional book, detailing Shimada's design journey in both Japan and Germany, has been released in Germany and is planned for release in other European countries. #DIYFurniture #CoffeeTableDesign #ModularDesign #HomeDecor #JapaneseDesignInfluence #SpaceSavingFurniture #HornbachCollaboration #YoShimada #TatoArchitects

This blog post examines the creation of a tabletop constructed from reclaimed pallet wood, highlighting both the aesthetic appeal and potential durability issues associated with such projects. While pallet wood furniture is a popular DIY trend, the article cautions against its use due to several factors. A significant concern is the possibility of pallets being fumigated with toxic pesticides, rendering the wood unsuitable for items like dining tables, cutting boards, or baby cribs. Beyond chemical concerns, the practical difficulties of working with pallet wood are emphasized. The process of harvesting and machining pallet wood into usable strips is described as arduous, involving considerable effort to remove or work around nails and other imperfections. The article showcases a specific project where a DIY enthusiast and his girlfriend successfully created a beautiful tabletop from pallet wood by cutting around the nails, thereby avoiding the most tedious step of nail removal. Despite this shortcut, the builder still invested substantial time and effort in preparing the wood. The resulting tabletop features an attractive design, with the builder skillfully isolating and alternating darker and lighter-colored wood strips. However, a primary concern raised by the author is the long-term stability of the tabletop due to wood movement. The builder reportedly used various wood species, including what appeared to be cedar, southern yellow pine, and poplar. The core issue with mixing different wood species in a single piece, particularly for surfaces like tabletops, is their differing rates of expansion and contraction in response to seasonal changes in humidity. This disparity in movement can eventually lead to joint failure and cracking. While acknowledging the beauty of the finished product and its value as a skill-building and learning experience, the article suggests that the tabletop's lifespan might be limited due to these inherent material properties. The discussion extends into the comments section, where readers offer diverse perspectives on the challenges and merits of using pallet wood. Some commenters debate the extent of inter-species wood movement in narrow thicknesses, suggesting that reinforcing joints or finishing both sides of the table could mitigate issues. Others highlight the dangers of inhaling sawdust from treated pallet wood and question the economic benefits compared to using inexpensive new lumber. The article concludes by acknowledging the artistic merit of the project while maintaining a cautious stance on its structural longevity. #PalletWood #DIYFurniture #Woodworking #FurnitureDesign #WoodMovement #ReclaimedMaterials #MaterialScience #TabletopConstruction

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

The Sisyphus kinetic art table, created by motion control artist Bruce Shapiro, is a unique piece of furniture that generates intricate patterns on a sand surface using a magnetic system. Inspired by the mythological figure Sisyphus, the table features a metal ball that ceaselessly rolls across a thin layer of sand, guided by a magnet underneath, to produce decorative ripples and grooves, reminiscent of a Japanese rock garden. This continuous movement results in beautiful kaleidoscopic designs that unfold in real time. Shapiro has been developing these Sisyphus sculptures for nearly two decades, and has recently adapted his artistic concept into a commercially viable line of coffee tables. To fund this venture, Shapiro launched a Kickstarter campaign, which quickly surpassed its $50,000 goal within a single day. The campaign offered three distinct models of the Sisyphus table, varying in size and design, and the success of the crowdfunding initiative has enabled Shapiro's team to mass-produce these kinetic art pieces. The operational mechanism of the Sisyphus table is relatively straightforward. A glass top encloses a shallow bed of sand, beneath which a two-motor robot, dubbed the 'Sisbot,' maneuvers a magnet. This magnet controls the movement of a steel ball across the sand, forming the intricate patterns. A Raspberry Pi computer governs the Sisbot, playing through a sequence of pre-programmed path files, much like a music player plays an MP3 file. The table features an automatic calibration system that activates upon plugging it in, immediately commencing a default playlist of designs. While the table operates autonomously, purchasers retain a degree of control over its functions. Users can select their preferred patterns from a library of designs and adjust the speed at which the metal ball moves. Furthermore, an accompanying mobile application developed by Shapiro allows for customization of the table's lighting, enabling users to modify the aesthetic ambiance created by the kinetic art. This innovative combination of art, technology, and functionality positions the Sisyphus table as a distinctive decorative and interactive element for any living space. #ZenCoffeeTable #KineticArt #BruceShapiro #SandArt #JapaneseZenGarden #MagneticSculpture #CoffeeTableDesign #KickstarterSuccess #HomeDecor