Baan: A Unique Tea and Coffee Table by Changheon Lee

Resisting Convention with a Dichotomous Harmony

Changheon Lee, the mastermind behind Baan, found beauty in the imitation of geography through contour models. He applied this concept to the tabletop, creating something novel and contrary to existing tables. The name "Baan" is derived from the Korean word "bandae," meaning to oppose or counteract, perfectly capturing the essence of this design.

What sets Baan apart from other tables is its unique approach to functionality. While traditional tabletops are flat and solely serve the purpose of accommodating objects, Baan challenges this assumption. Lee minimized the flatness of the tabletop and incorporated non-functional forms, occupying the rest of the surface. The result is a table that defies convention, seamlessly blending the functional and the non-functional.

The realization of Baan involved the use of various materials and technologies. The tea set storage is made of ceramic ware, while the tabletop itself is crafted from cork and aluminum using CNC milling. The table legs are constructed from black aluminum, adding a sleek and modern touch to the overall design. With dimensions of 1500(L) x 1020(W) x 620(H), Baan offers ample space for six people to comfortably enjoy their tea or coffee.

One of the key challenges in creating Baan was finding the balance between functionality and non-functionality. Lee wanted to clearly separate these two aspects while maintaining a harmonious overall design. To achieve this, he implemented a contrast effect. The functional parts of the tabletop have a rectilinear form and a metal finish, exuding a cold brashness. In contrast, the non-functional parts have a curvilinear form and are made of warm cork. Together, these elements create a dichotomous harmony that is visually striking.

Since its completion in January 2016, Baan has garnered recognition and acclaim. In 2017, it was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category. This prestigious award is bestowed upon designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity and resourcefulness, incorporating best practices in art, science, design, and technology. Baan's unique concept and execution contribute to improvements in quality of life, making it a truly deserving recipient of this accolade.

Baan is not just a table; it is a statement piece that challenges preconceived notions of what a table should be. With its innovative design and harmonious blend of functionality and non-functionality, Baan offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of art, design, and lifestyle.