I think it’s to say that when it comes to product design, tables often don’t get the attention they deserve. So frequently used accommodate smaller design objects, stacked magazines, wine glasses and other items demonstrating our personal taste and style, tables take the backstage. What follows are a few furniture design that turn this tradition a bit on it’s head, using impressive color, graphics, shapes and materials that explore special depth and utility in uncommon ways.

Detail of Clamp Table. Designed by Ryan Sorrell.

1. When I first discovered John Houshmand’s low table, my jaw almost dropped. Part display case, part naturally aqueous environment for these simple floating pieces of wood, No° 0094 possess an undeniably zen-inspired presence.

No° 0094 low table. Designed by John Houshmand.

2. A new name in the UK is design is that of Ryan Sorrel, an exhibitor in the recent New Designers show and inventor of this clever Do-I-Yourself Clamp Table that allows any flat surfaced material to transform into an elegantly re-adapted and functional design object.

Clamp Table. Designed by Ryan Sorrell.

3. When I first came across this limited edition collaboration between Moroso and Diesel, the Lady Gaga Lyrics “spin that record babe” from “Just Dance” immediately popped into my head. A turntable-turned-actual table, Xradio 2 Disc Table has got us jumping around.

Xradio 2 Disc Table. Designed in collaboration between Moroso and Diesel.

More inspiring design trends next week so stay with us!