Bucket Arch: A Fusion of Tradition in Modern Tea Tables

Yi Lu's Award-Winning Design Marries Ancient Chinese Architecture with Contemporary Functionality

In the realm of design, where the past intersects with the present, Yi Lu's Bucket Arch tea table stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of historical inspiration and modern utility. This piece, a recent Iron A' Furniture Design Award winner, exemplifies innovation in furniture design, integrating the essence of ancient Chinese wooden arches into a functional, everyday object.

The Bucket Arch tea table, conceived by designer Yi Lu and collaborator Ruicheng Mao, is a celebration of cultural heritage and aesthetic finesse. Drawing from the grandeur of traditional Chinese wooden architecture, the table's form is a nod to the past, yet its functionality is firmly rooted in the present. The design's strength lies in its ability to provide a clutter-free surface, ideal for dining or leisure, without compromising on style or historical significance.

Yi Lu's creation is distinguished by its use of black walnut wood, chosen for its stability and rich color that effortlessly complements a variety of interior spaces. The table's dimensions, 1600mm by 750mm by 720mm, make it a versatile piece suitable for studies, living rooms, and other leisure spaces. Its clean lines and tidy tabletop offer a serene dining experience, while its material exudes an air of sophistication.

The realization of the Bucket Arch tea table is a blend of advanced technology and traditional craftsmanship. CNC machining ensures precision in shaping the wood, while hand polishing brings out the wood's natural luster, culminating in a product that is as much a work of art as it is a piece of furniture. The design process was a collaborative effort, requiring the expertise of various manufacturers to achieve the desired outcome.

Yi Lu's research delved into the ergonomic aspects of furniture design, ensuring that the Bucket Arch tea table not only serves its purpose but also enhances the user experience. The design journey, which began in Shenyang in April 2023 and concluded in September 2023, was marked by challenges such as selecting the right wood patterns and achieving a seamless fit for the handcrafted components.

The Bucket Arch tea table's recognition at the A' Furniture Design Award in 2024 is a testament to its innovative approach to design. The Iron A' Design Award acknowledges the table's practicality, innovation, and adherence to professional standards, celebrating its contribution to a better and more aesthetically pleasing world. Yi Lu's design stands as a bridge between eras, proving that the beauty of tradition can be reimagined for contemporary life.

In conclusion, the Bucket Arch tea table by Yi Lu is a remarkable piece that encapsulates the fusion of ancient Chinese architectural elements with modern-day functionality. It is a design that not only serves its purpose with elegance but also enriches the user's living space with a touch of historical grandeur. As an award-winning design, it sets a benchmark for how traditional inspirations can be transformed into innovative, practical, and beautiful lifestyle products.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Lu Yi
Image Credits: Lu Yi
Project Team Members: Lu Yi;Ruicheng Mao
Project Name: Bucket Arch
Project Client: Lu Yi


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