herman miller commissions charles wilson to design multipurpose table

herman miller commissions charles wilson to design multipurpose table
(above) table in carafe cherry with bronze legs
all images courtesy of charles wilson 

recognising that the single-person household is the fastest growing demographic of the past decade and set to become a dominant configuration of cities of the future, the ‘carafe table’ responds to these shifting conditions by providing an attractive, adaptable work and entertaining surface with subtle storage options. created by the autralian designer charles wilson and commissioned by herman miller, the name was chosen by the later as a subtle allusion to charles and ray eame’s india report, in which they refer to the traditional ‘lota’ — or vessel — as the embodiment of perfect design.

carafe table in black, used as a home office

hidden drawers enable users to store objects and assorted work clutter, allowing the table to transform quickly and easily, swiftly shifting from work to dining modes. these storage spaces are designed to carry a variety of electronic devices with charging trays and cable management. the concept was to create a table that addresses 21st century needs. thinking back just twenty years ago, the idea of having a computer at a dining table would have just been ugly and inappropriate. nowadays we read our news and novels from those devices while they provide the music we listen to. often they are not just all pervasive but extraordinarily elegant.

hidden drawers enable users to store objects and assorted work clutter

the tables are designed for easy storage and management of everyday electronic equipment. central to this concept is the plan drawer which runs right through the table and can open both ways. it does this anticipating more than one user — perhaps even a whole family — with stuff that might get in the way of dinner. alternatively, this can be used like a traditional kitchen table, storing cutlery, napkins etc. available in three sizes, in oak, cherry or ash, with metal legs in bronze, or powder coated white or black

the table transforms quickly and easily as it shifts from work to dining modes

drawers are designed to carry a variety of electronic devices with charging trays and cable management

the table is available in three different sizes

carafe table with white oak and white legs

white oak table in an office environment

designboom has received this project from our ‘DIY submissions‘ feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: juliana neira | designboom