Airy: The Mobile and Adaptable Office Desk

A Versatile Workspace Solution Designed by Ivana Wingham

Airy is a mobile worktable designed by Ivana Wingham that seamlessly integrates into any studio space, whether indoors or outdoors. Its curved table-top design envelops the body, providing a sense of airiness and a clear view of the surroundings. What sets Airy apart is its unique adaptability, thanks to its four distinct sides that allow it to fit into any environment effortlessly. The desk strikes a balance between bespoke craftsmanship and a fast assembly and disassembly process, making it both sturdy and easy to transport.

The production of the Airy worktable combines traditional modernist techniques with digital precision. Specially built two-part presses are used to form the curved panels, with cross-grained ash veneers sandwiched between them. The metal support and legs are made from hollow bars resting on hollow studs, while the side metalwork is laser cut and meticulously welded before being finished with powder coating.

With dimensions varying depending on how they are measured, the length of Airy ranges from 2200 to 2400 mm, and the width from 600mm to 1000mm. The tabletop stands at a constant height of 740mm until it curves on one side. The desk is packaged in parts with clear assembly instructions for easy home assembly.

Airy's design is not only visually appealing but also highly functional. Its formal functionality is evident in the seamless transitions between its parts, allowing for effortless assembly and disassembly. The oblique adaptability of the table makes each elevation unique, ensuring it seamlessly integrates into any new environment. The bespoke design elements elevate utility into a seductive aesthetic, creating a truly personalized workspace.

The Airy project began in 2019 in London and was completed in 2021 in Serbia. While it has not been publicly exhibited yet, the prototype represents a unique response to the evolving nature of workspaces. Extensive research and experimentation were conducted to achieve the perfect balance between bespoke design and a fast assembly process.

The challenges faced during the design process included the creation of a large press for the tabletop due to the unavailability of large machine vacuum presses. However, a solution was found by constructing the press using numerous layers of chipboard sheets fastened with specially designed metal bars. Additionally, the choice of veneered material proved to be a challenge, with oak veneer being too porous and ultimately replaced with ash veneer.

With its innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship, Airy has received the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in the Office Furniture Design category in 2023. This award recognizes the desk's practicality, innovation, and ability to meet professional and industrial requirements, contributing to a better world.

Images:

Image No 1: Airy Front And Right Side View, 2021.

Image No 2: Airy Left And Front Side View, 2021.

Image No 3: Airy Process Of Assembling View Upside Down, 2021.

Image No 4: Airy Back Left Side View, 2021.

Image No 5: Airy Right Top Side View Detail, 2021.

Intellectual Property Notice: All images are copyrighted by Ivana Wingham, 2021.