The mechanical shapes were inspired by metal fabrication techniques.

Description

Coffee table designed to explore the integration of glass and aluminum tubing.

Overview

The juxtaposition of materials within a piece, greatly influences its final significance. I wanted to explore this idea through furniture. Each material has its own personality and demands, but my goal was to make them work together in a cohesive composition.

I began the project by studying different material scenarios and their aesthetic qualities. I favored the challenge of colder combinations like glass and metal. I decided to focus on creating my coffee table using aluminum and glass. The main goal for successfully merging them was to stay true to each material, allowing them to dictate their preferred form and construction method.

Stock aluminum tubing and brackets were customized by angled cuts and holes, visually referencing aircraft fabrication styles. The overall mechanical aesthetic was further driven by the fastening system. The table fits together using hex screws and washers, providing easy assembly and breakdown.

Hex screws added both functional ease and visual congruence.

The table adapts to its environment, reflecting light, hues, and textures.

The aluminum bars triangulate the force, acting as a brace against racking.