Mushroom Table: Sustainable Design from Discarded Wood

Hyunjae Noh’s eco-friendly side table redefines waste as artful function

Furniture production often results in a surplus of high-quality wood scraps, typically discarded due to their small size and irregular shapes. At OCAD University, these remnants are collected for student use, inspiring designer Hyunjae Noh to explore new possibilities for sustainable furniture. The Mushroom table was conceived as a creative response to this challenge, demonstrating how thoughtful design can elevate waste materials into functional art.

The Mushroom table distinguishes itself through its unique construction and visual appeal. By employing three different types of wood scraps, the tabletop features a captivating end-grain pattern, each piece contributing to a mosaic of textures and tones. This approach not only celebrates the inherent beauty of varied wood species but also highlights the potential of upcycling in contemporary furniture design.

To realize this concept, Noh utilized the end grain technique, a method that maximizes the use of small wood pieces by bonding them into larger panels. The circular tabletop is meticulously shaped and finished with oil, ensuring both durability and a refined appearance. The table’s legs are crafted by laminating multiple wood layers, then shaping them with a lathe to achieve the smooth, mushroom-like form, all while minimizing additional waste.

Measuring 380mm in all dimensions, the Mushroom table is versatile enough to serve as a coffee table or bedside companion. Its compact stature and organic silhouette make it suitable for modern interiors, while its sustainable origins appeal to environmentally conscious consumers. The design process involved overcoming technical challenges, such as safely shaping small scraps, which was achieved by employing a laser-cut template for consistency and precision.

The Mushroom project exemplifies a growing movement in design that prioritizes environmental responsibility without sacrificing aesthetics or function. By giving new value to discarded materials, Noh’s table not only reduces waste but also encourages a shift in how resources are perceived and utilized in the industry. Recognized with a Bronze A' Furniture Design Award in 2025, the Mushroom table stands as a testament to the power of ingenuity and sustainable thinking in contemporary design.

This award-winning project underscores the importance of integrating best practices in art, science, and technology to improve quality of life and promote a more sustainable future for design and manufacturing.