Paper Table: Redefining the Nature of Furniture

A Unique Design Inspired by the Versatility of Paper

The Paper Table stands out from traditional tables due to its distinctive features. Designed with the intention of providing a comfortable space for relaxation, it is ideal for taking a nap or enjoying a moment of rest. The curves on the table top are carefully crafted to match the natural curvature of the human body, ensuring optimal comfort for users in various positions.

What sets the Paper Table apart is not only its visual appeal but also its material uniqueness. While paper is typically associated with softness and delicacy, the designer has transformed it into a solid and load-bearing structure through a casting process. This innovative approach allows the table to maintain its gentle and natural appearance while providing a sturdy and durable surface.

The production of the Paper Table involves a combination of recycled paper pulp and maple. The process begins by mixing the waste paper pulp and injecting it into a mold. Once the mold is removed, the casting product block is dried. The final product is then realized through mechanical cutting and grinding of the prototype.

Throughout the design process, Xiaoming Li faced several challenges. The transformation of waste paper pulp into a solid material required solidification treatment to enhance its strength and plasticity. By overcoming these obstacles, the designer successfully created a three-dimensional curved surface that showcases the versatility of paper.

The Paper Table project began in January in Beijing, China. It involved extensive research into the properties of paper and the development of a unique casting technology. The result is a design that combines functionality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal.

The innovative nature of the Paper Table has been recognized with the prestigious A' Design Award. In 2017, it was awarded the Bronze A' Furniture Design Award. This accolade highlights the design's outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, as well as its contribution to improving the quality of life through the integration of art, science, design, and technology.

The Paper Table, with its unique combination of form and function, showcases the potential of paper as a material in the world of furniture design. By redefining the nature of the product, Xiaoming Li has created a piece that not only captivates the eye but also provides a comfortable and inviting space for relaxation.