DESIGN NAME: Boletus
PRIMARY FUNCTION: Coffee Table
INSPIRATION: As the name implies, the Boletus coffee table was inspired by nature. Observing the changing seasons and the shape of the trees, the flowers and the mushrooms, led to the concept taking shape. With the desire to push the concept to the limit, synthetic materials in the base were blended with traditional, natural materials for the top surface.
UNIQUE PROPERTIES / PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The Boletus coffee table was conceived as a functional sculpture. The implausibly slender base and expansive top are intended to appear surreal in proportion and challenge convention. The design utilises modern materials to maximise strength and stability and whilst intriguing to look at from all angles can still hold your coffee tray.
OPERATION / FLOW / INTERACTION: Positioned as a focal point within a space, the Boletus coffee table draws attention and creates discussion. Where possible, an elevated position, such as a mezzanine level, can further reveal the sensual, flowing lines of the base.
PROJECT DURATION AND LOCATION: Concept design started in November 2011. The first prototype was completed in November 2012, whereupon it was privately exhibited.
FITS BEST INTO CATEGORY: Furniture Design
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PRODUCTION / REALIZATION TECHNOLOGY: The body of the table is manufactured from glass-fiber reinforced polyester resin. Where required, woven glass cloth is included in the laminate. Profiled strengthener ribs are bonded into the body and a ballast weight is cast into the base. The body is painted and finished with a clear lacquer top coat. This top coat is polished to create the piano finish. The top is manufactured from a moisture resistant MDF veneered with bird's eye maple. The top is lacquered with a satin sheen finish.
SPECIFICATIONS / TECHNICAL PROPERTIES: Width 1225mm, Depth 540mm, Height 460mm, Weight 24kg
TAGS: coffee table, sculpture, design, art, composite, grp, veneer, Boletus, wood
RESEARCH ABSTRACT: -
CHALLENGE: Developing the correct composite lay-up, reinforcement and ballast were key challenges in this project. Research into the structural properties of the composite material for production of the base and consultation with composite engineers helped overcome these issues.
ADDED DATE: 2013-02-05 10:43:03
TEAM MEMBERS (1) :
IMAGE CREDITS: Graham Hepburn, 2012.
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