Top 10 Most Iconic Side Tables of the Past Decade
Side tables are more than just functional pieces of furniture; they often become a statement of design and creativity. Over the last 10 years, designers have reimagined side tables by blending form, function, and innovative materials, resulting in iconic pieces that push the boundaries of design. Here's a look at the top 10 most iconic side tables of the past decade, including their designers, brands, and the creative processes behind them.
1. Bell Side Table by Sebastian Herkner
Designer: Sebastian Herkner
Brand: ClassiCon
Material: Blown glass, metal, and brass
Why Iconic: The Bell Side Table is celebrated for its bold use of hand-blown glass as the base, a departure from traditional table structures. It merges the softness of glass with the rigidity of metal, resulting in a piece that's both sculptural and functional.
Design Process: Herkner was inspired by glassblowing techniques he observed in Venice, combining this artisanal craft with modern forms. The glass bell base supports a brass or metal top, reflecting a harmonious balance between delicate and strong materials.
2. T-Table by Patricia Urquiola
Designer: Patricia Urquiola
Brand: Kartell
Material: Transparent PMMA (acrylic)
Why Iconic: The T-Table's laser-cut surface mimics lace, creating an interplay of light and shadow. Its lightweight and ethereal design allows it to function as both a decorative object and a practical side table.
Design Process: Urquiola sought to create a tactile and ornamental piece that feels like a traditional craft but using cutting-edge manufacturing techniques. The intricate patterns are directly inspired by nature, specifically the delicate structure of lacework.
3. Componibili by Anna Castelli Ferrieri
Designer: Anna Castelli Ferrieri
Brand: Kartell
Material: ABS plastic
Why Iconic: Originally designed in 1967 but continually updated and reissued over the decades, including in the last 10 years, the Componibili continues to be a revolutionary piece in modular furniture design. Its cylindrical shape and stackable units allow it to serve as a versatile storage solution and side table.
Design Process: Ferrieri, one of Kartell's co-founders, envisioned the Componibili as a flexible and modern solution for storage. Her use of innovative plastic molding techniques in the 1960s has made it an enduring symbol of minimalist, space-saving design. In recent years, it's been adapted to more eco-friendly materials and finishes.
4. Linear Steel Side Table by Thomas Bentzen
Designer: Thomas Bentzen
Brand: Muuto
Material: Powder-coated steel
Why Iconic: The Linear Steel Side Table is part of a collection designed to bring a refined, modern touch to both indoor and outdoor spaces. Its clean, geometric lines and durable materials make it stand out as a timeless piece.
Design Process: Bentzen drew inspiration from Scandinavian design traditions, focusing on understated elegance and functionality. The table's powder-coated steel material ensures it withstands outdoor conditions while maintaining its minimalist aesthetic. The design emphasizes practicality with its slightly curved tabletop and slim legs, offering a versatile side table that can adapt to various environments.
5. Cicognino by Franco Albini (Re-edition)
Designer: Franco Albini
Brand: Cassina
Material: Wood (Canaletto walnut or black stained ash)
Why Iconic: Originally designed in the 1950s, the Cicognino side table was reintroduced to the market in the last decade. Its tripod design with a delicate, handle-like leg is playful yet functional.
Design Process: Albini designed Cicognino with the vision of creating a small, mobile piece of furniture that resembled a stork (hence its name). The table's slim and elegant structure allows it to be easily moved around, fulfilling Albini's desire for lightweight, adaptable furniture.
6. Tulou Table by GamFratesi
Designer: GamFratesi
Brand: Hay
Material: Powder-coated steel and removable tray
Why Iconic: The Tulou Table is celebrated for its simplicity and functionality. Designed as a minimalist tray table, its form is inspired by traditional trays, allowing for easy portability while remaining aesthetically modern. Its soft curves and functional design make it a trendy, versatile piece that fits into any contemporary setting.
7. Bishop and Clerk Table by India Mahdavi
Designer: India Mahdavi
Brand: Ralph Pucci International
Material: Lacquered wood
Why Iconic: This sculptural piece showcases Mahdavi's mastery in blending playful shapes with luxurious finishes. The Bishop and Clerk Tables are beloved for their vibrant color options and quirky yet elegant forms. They can be stacked or displayed individually, making them a favorite in eclectic and artistic interiors.
8. Toki Side Table by Fiam Italia
Designer: Fiam Design Team
Brand: Fiam Italia
Material: Glass
Why Iconic: The Toki Side Table is celebrated for its sleek and modern design featuring a unique, asymmetrical shape that is both stylish and functional. The use of glass as the primary material lends an airy feel, allowing it to fit seamlessly into any contemporary living space. Its minimalist design is both elegant and practical, making it a versatile addition to various interiors. The Toki table is not only a functional piece but also a statement of modern craftsmanship and design aesthetics.
9. Roly Poly Side Table by Faye Toogood
Designer: Faye Toogood
Brand: Driade
Material: Polyethylene
Why Iconic: Faye Toogood's Roly Poly series has become instantly recognizable, and the side table is no exception. With its chunky, curved form, this playful yet durable piece embraces the trend of bold, sculptural furniture. The exaggerated proportions and contemporary material make it a standout piece that adds character to any space.
10. Bollo Side Table by Andreas Engesvik
Designer: Andreas Engesvik
Brand: Fogia
Material: Marble and metal
Why Iconic: The Bollo Side Table exudes elegance with its use of luxurious materials like marble and metal. Its rounded top and sleek frame offer a refined yet understated presence. The table's harmonious balance of form and material has made it a popular choice in modern, minimalist interiors, and it remains a staple of Scandinavian design.
