These cool minimalist objects were created by Belgian designer Mathieu Guyaux. Based on identical solid white oak parallelepiped, each element underwent a specific cut (hence, the name) to give it its own identity. These different cuts allow a large number of applications. You can turn each piece vertically, horizontally, or sideways and use it as a coffee table, side table, nightstand, umbrella stand, magazine rack, pedestal, you name it… Simple, beautiful, refreshing (love the lacquered color detail) and very useful in any space, big or small.
Vic is a hip and attractive coffee table, created by Viña del Mar based design studio Elemento Diseño (Jaime Zuñiga and Emmanuel Gonzalez). The piece is made of lacquered in white plywood and consists of only 3 pieces. This makes an assembly process a breeze (see the promo video to observe Vic in action). ‘Environmental performance is the best definition of this coffee table. In manufacturing there are few losses so that all parts are utilised to build a harmonious whole.’ – designers state on their website. Light, unobtrusive, easy to put together and environmentally friendly, it might just have it all.
(Via Minimalissimo)
Zerino table by Italian studio AK47 is a fun and multifunctional piece. It can be accessorized with various additional uses according to your changing tastes and necessities. The table can feature a planter, a candleholder or even a small elegant fireplace, thanks to the addition of a ready-to-assemble bioethanol burner kit. The tabletop is not really on a small size, but neither is a storage compartment underneath it, which can hold your books, periodics, work-related items and more. Beautiful, clever design, suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
(Via Urban Gardens)
This multifunctional piece by my fellow Brooklynite Isaac Krady has a lot to offer to a shoebox dweller. A clever little table, called Tre, can be adapted to different tasks and serve several purposes around your house. Designer explains: “Placed horizontally, the Tre can be used as a coffee table or an end table – its contour providing a nook for books and magazines. Placed vertically, the Tre works within the means of its name and doubles as a tray or laptop desk.” The piece is made from bent plywood.
Some of you might remember the brilliant and innovative REK bookcase by Rotterdam-based designer Reinier de Jong. He recently extended this idea to another piece – a coffee table. Called REK just like the bookcase, the piece is based on the same functional principle – the smaller panels slide inside the bigger frame, allowing the table to grow with your needs. Built-in stops prevent you from rolling out the sliding parts too far. You can also secure the piece in a desired position. In its collapsed state, the table is compact – 60 by 80 cm – and can fit even the tiniest of rooms. And with the maximum size of 130 by 170 cm, you can expand it to accommodate a large party comfortably. I also like how the end grain side of the wood is beveled in order to get a grip. A subtle and beautiful detail.
This table from Studio Uli Budde has a lot to be in love with. It is elegant, compact and loaded with functionality. The piece is a logical combination of coffee table, side table, and magazine rack. The central island is a practical surface for placing coffee, plates, sketchbook, or laptop. The area that wraps around is a storage space for books and magazines. The outside rim also serves as a bookmark when taking a break from reading. Simple and unobtrusive aesthetic of the reading table makes it perfect for the living room, bedroom or waiting room. The piece comes in two sizes.
The Kai table was custom-designed by Naoki Hirakoso in collaboration with Takamitsu Kitahara. A seamlessly rectangular object from even a short distance, the table unfolds to reveal many hidden storage compartments. The craftsmanship of the designers is truly impressive, they have incorporated as many hinged cupboards, slide-out panels, pull-out cubbyholes and drawers as the 900 centimeter wooden box could possibly allow. Beautiful idea and inspiring execution!
The UMYD (Union Modular y Democratica) coffee table by CruxFlux+ is actually several lounge pieces in one. The item consists of diagonal panels that expand via simple pivoting motion and form various configurations. UMYD can be used as a footrest, series of side tables, storage unit… The variations are limitless. When collapsed into its most compact form – the piece turns into an elegant low-level table with storage. Truly multifunctional idea.
Primi tray table by Phase Design made me look. The piece is not only a clever example of dual function, but also a very elegant one. The table is comprised of two parts – solid steel bar base and removable tray, which comes with an inset color plate or bronze mirror top. Base available in flat and gloss black or white powder-coat finish. Color plate available in various powder coat colors. Beautiful addition to a room of any size.
This beautiful coffee table, called Full House, was created by Copenhagen based design duo Strand+Hvass (Christina Strand and Niels Hvass). The piece is comprised of two parts, and by simply sliding the bottom part in and out – you can adjust the size of the table. Simple, unembellished and expandable, it makes perfect sense in any living room, big or small. Full House is made out of solid wood, comes in two sizes and several finishes.
(HT Carl MH Barenbrug)
