Setback: A Coffee Table Inspired by Non-Slip Flowers

An Innovative Design by Jeffrey A Day

Setback was inspired by my grandmother's bathtub non-slip flowers that were on the flat surface. I had always liked the tub flowers for their happy nature and also their practical use as well.

The Setback coffee table, designed by Jeffrey A Day, is a unique and innovative piece that combines art and functionality. What sets Setback apart is its design inspired by non-slip flowers found on bathtubs. This inspiration not only adds a touch of whimsy to the table but also serves a practical purpose.

The standout feature of Setback is the random flowers cut through the material, which create intriguing shadows on the ground. These shadows change with the light source that illuminates the room, giving the table a different shadow pattern throughout the day. Similar to a sundial, Setback's shadows provide a dynamic and ever-changing visual experience.

The realization of Setback involved the use of advanced technology. The transition from the top surface to the round legs was CNC router cut, resulting in a balanced design that also showcases the sculpting of the wood. The dimensions of the table are 1066mm in width, 560mm in depth, and 380mm in height.

Jeffrey A Day, the mastermind behind Setback, embarked on this project in September 2015 in Seattle, WA, and completed it in October 2015. His research focused on achieving a smooth and organic appearance in the transition from the top surface to the dowel leg, a feature typically associated with plastics.

One of the creative challenges Day faced was ensuring that Setback offered a different appearance throughout the day and evening. The changing shadows, reminiscent of a sundial, provide a captivating visual experience that evolves with the movement of the sun. This feature adds an element of surprise and intrigue to the coffee table.

Setback has garnered recognition in the design world and was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2016. This prestigious award is given to well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. Setback's integration of industry best practices and competent technical characteristics make it a standout piece in the furniture design realm.

With Setback, Jeffrey A Day has successfully created a coffee table that not only serves its purpose but also engages users in a non-verbal dialogue through its unique design. The interplay of light and shadow adds an element of surprise and delight to any space, making Setback a true conversation starter.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Jeffrey A Day
Image Credits: rg brand
Project Team Members: Jeffrey A Day
Project Name: Setback
Project Client: Jeffrey A Day


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