Black Widow: A Unique and Eco-Friendly Table Design

A Statement of Nature On Top Of Technology

Black Widow stands out from other table designs with its unique supporting structure. Metal elements, resembling the shape of a walking stick, slide through the tabletop at an inclined position, providing stability and security. The "Slide and Screw" assembly process simplifies installation, making it user-friendly. Additionally, the table's flat packaging size and utilization of up-cycled materials contribute to its eco-friendliness.

The table top element is made from wood blocks, which are up-cycled leftovers from local wood furniture production industries. These blocks are assembled with bone glue, minimizing emissions and providing a sustainable background for the design. The black tones of the table top are achieved using Corian with the new DeepColour Technology, specifically Deep Night Sky, creating a visually striking aesthetic.

The supporting structural elements of Black Widow are made from aluminum or steel tubes, which can be straight or bent. These tubes are powder coated in off-black or golden shades, adding to the table's elegance. The "Slide and Screw" procedure allows for easy assembly and disassembly, giving users flexibility in setting up the table. Rounded and drilled wood blocks, also up-cycled leftovers, protect flooring from damage without the need for gluing. Gravity ensures that these elements stay in place.

Black Widow's dimensions are 1380mm in width, 1030mm in depth, and 750mm in height, making it suitable for various spaces and settings.

This design showcases the possibilities of combining standard manufacturing methods with new technologies like 3D printing. The modular elements of the supporting structure can be 3D printed and combined with aluminum tubes to bring the design to life. The interaction between the different parts of the table relies on gravity and friction, ensuring stability and ease of assembly through the "Slide and Screw" or "Slide and Joint" process.

The Black Widow project was initiated in May 2014 in Thessaloniki and completed in June 2014. Throughout the design process, the team faced challenges in creating an object that was easy to assemble, sustainable, and utilized the forces of gravity and friction as key elements of the supporting structure mechanism.

Black Widow's innovative design and commitment to sustainability have earned it recognition in the design community. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2015. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that exhibit outstanding creativity, technical skill, and contribute to improving quality of life.

With its unique structure, eco-friendly materials, and elegant aesthetics, Black Widow is a testament to the possibilities of combining nature and technology in design.