Volta: A Unique Coffee Table Inspired by Cathedral Architecture

An Alternative Table Design by Chih-Chieh Huang - NTHU

Volta is an alternative coffee table design, inspired by the rib vault of the cathedral. This work hopes to interpret the visual appeal and beauty of the arched structure from a human perspective when looking up at the space of the cathedral.

The designer, Chih-Chieh Huang, has created a truly unique coffee table that draws inspiration from the architectural wonders of cathedrals. The table, named Volta, showcases the beauty of arched structures and brings it into our living spaces.

What sets Volta apart is its frame form composed of cross or diagonal arched ribs. This structural design allows the table to explore the intricate lines and shapes that make up the object. The table legs are designed to resemble the arched structure columns found in cathedrals, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal.

One of the standout features of Volta is its half-reflective glass tabletop surface. During the day, the table presents a special transparent color, allowing users to appreciate the functional and beautiful structural lines underneath. However, it is during the night that Volta truly comes alive. Through the refraction and reflection between the inside light source and the half-reflective glass, the table projects the beauty of the arched building into the indoor environment in the form of mesmerizing light and shadow.

In terms of manufacturing, the designer used a combination of traditional metal sculpture techniques and modern CAD and CNC technology. The first version of Volta was manually crafted by bending and welding steel bars to create the main structure. The second version, an improved iteration, utilized CAD and CNC to accurately cut steel plates and fabricate the structure. Special consideration was given to lightweight and visual performance, ensuring that the assembly details were feasible for manufacturing.

Volta's dimensions are 480mmW x 480mmD x 430mmH, making it a versatile addition to any living space. The materials used include stainless steel, half-reflecting glass, and light, further enhancing its modern and sophisticated appeal.

This exceptional coffee table design by Chih-Chieh Huang - NTHU has garnered recognition in the design world. Volta was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2021. This prestigious accolade is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills, contributing to quality of life improvements.

Experience the beauty and innovation of Volta, a coffee table that brings the grandeur of cathedral architecture into your home.