Interview about Bend Coffee Table, winner of the A' Furniture Design Award 2023
The table is made of two bent aluminium plates which fit together. When put together, the plates extend all the way to the legs. This gives a certain transparency and lightness to the design and vertical storage is created for magazines, newspapers, and plaid. In between the two top plates, there is also the possibility of storage on both sides of the table.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsThe design emerged spontaneously and naturally. I was inspired by the simplicity of a sketch I created with a single continuous line. I then translated that line into a folded sheet, which evolved into an object with a dual function: a coffee table where the form provides both a surface and storage space.
The initial design dates back to 2017. At that time, it consisted of just a single plate without the top surface. This made it less functional as a coffee table because the usable surface was quite limited due to the open areas created by the V-shaped legs. There was also a structural issue, as the legs and small surface areas were not sturdy enough under load. In 2022, I revisited the design from my archives to refine it further. I decided to double the top surface, and the open space created allowed me to discreetly integrate a wooden slat. This solution addressed the structural and assembly challenges, provided ample surface area, and created additional storage space within the V-shaped legs.
During the folding process of the prototype, we encountered the issue of the V-shaped legs cracking. When attempting to fix the cracks by welding them shut, the problem persisted. Eventually, the metalworking company suggested preheating the aluminium, which solved the issue. For later prototypes, we chose a different alloy for the aluminium plate, and this resolved the cracking problem during the folding process.
The design of the table's pleated surface is very basic, almost self-evident. However, this simplicity also gives it a unique and recognizable sculptural form. Its straightforwardness allows the design to easily engage with its surroundings. The coffee table fits effortlessly into both classic and modern interiors, without imposing itself. In terms of usability, the design returns to the essence of its function through its form.
For me, a design must be functional. During the design process, I aim to balance functionality, aesthetics, usability, and ergonomics. By evaluating these requirements throughout the process, various ideas emerge, ultimately refined into the final design. It’s remarkable how people instinctively sense these qualities in the BEND design. It meets the user's needs and fits well with our sometimes hectic modern lives.
The table is very easy and simple to produce. Due to its design, there is little to no material waste during production. I've always been drawn to aluminium as a material. Recycled aluminium requires 95% less energy to return to its raw form. It is lightweight yet sturdy and easy to work with . Sustainability in design begins with creating an object that remains useful and relevant across generations. I aim to create timeless designs. However, from the beginning of the design process, the ecological aspect is automatically considered, such as using circular materials, eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and compact and efficient transport. Environmental considerations are deeply embedded in the design process. We have a moral obligation to do this. Our ecosystem is fragile, and natural resources are not infinite.
The folded continuous plate is made up of two parts. This was necessary to create the seamless plate. The wooden connecting strips are discreet and add a warm touch to the BEND table. Using these wooden connecting strips made it possible to join the two plates simply and aesthetically, while also ensuring the table's stability.
The key step was to extend the original single plate, which provided a solution to both the structural and aesthetic challenges. By doing so, the design gained a unique, recognizable shape, and the construction became robust.
Young designers are increasingly creating collectible designs. They are exploring new boundaries in terms of form and aesthetics. However, this often comes at the expense of functionality. These designs are also expensive and tend to have a short lifespan. I suspect that in a few years, these experiments will lead to the creation of more functional and user-friendly objects.
For me, it feels like a natural process. New designs often emerge from previous ones. It’s a growth process. The constant need for new knowledge can sometimes lead to refreshing ideas. As a designer, it's important to push your boundaries, try new things, and explore new limits. This way, you evolve both as a person and as a designer.
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