Stacked Coffee Table: A Playful Twist on Modern Design

A Celebration of Wood and Casual Disorder

The Stacked coffee table, designed by Studio Hemal Patel, is a unique and innovative piece that combines playful aesthetics with functional design. Inspired by a deck of cards casually stacked, this table offers a novel and eye-catching addition to any living space.

Studio Hemal Patel found inspiration for the Stacked coffee table during a game of cards. The slight movement of the top cards as they were placed on the table sparked the idea of "casual disorder" as the concept behind the project. This idea of embracing imperfections and creating beauty out of them became one of the main factors that informed the final aesthetic of the table.

Another driving force behind the design was the studio's love for wood. The Stacked coffee table celebrates the variety of wood species available, showcasing their individual beauty, grain structures, colors, and textures. The use of veneered plywood panels adds depth and visual interest to the table, creating a unique and captivating design.

What sets the Stacked coffee table apart is its construction from three layers of mismatching veneered plywood panels. This creates a playful and dynamic aesthetic that is unlike anything else on the market. The table is available in six standard color options, but its modular design allows for parts to be easily interchanged, making custom orders quick and efficient. By pre-cutting and storing multiples of each component, Studio Hemal Patel can reduce costs, lead times, waste, and stock holding.

The production process of the Stacked coffee table begins with the cutting of the table-tops and legs on a CNC router. The size and shape of the table-tops are designed to minimize waste, with each sheet yielding five pieces. After being cut, the parts are finished by hand and stored until a sale is made. When an order is received, the necessary parts are quickly assembled using just 14 screws, allowing for a hassle-free and efficient assembly process.

The Stacked coffee table is available in three wood options: American Maple, European Oak, and American Black Walnut. All wood used is FSC-certified, ensuring sustainability and responsible sourcing.

With dimensions of 1150mm in width, 600mm in depth, and 360mm in height, the Stacked coffee table is the perfect addition to any living room or lounge area. The package dimensions of 1100mm in width, 700mm in depth, and 200mm in height make it easy to transport and store.

Studio Hemal Patel, based in London, designed the Stacked coffee table and it is manufactured in Yorkshire, UK. The design process involved extensive research into materials to find the perfect balance between strength, rigidity, and thinness. Several prototype iterations were made to refine the aesthetics and optimize the modular design. The result is a coffee table that is not only visually striking but also functional and easy to assemble.

The Stacked coffee table has received recognition for its outstanding design. It was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in 2019, which honors well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. This prestigious award recognizes the Stacked coffee table for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and contribution to a better world.

The Stacked coffee table by Studio Hemal Patel is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in design. With its playful aesthetic, modular design, and celebration of wood, this coffee table is a true statement piece that will elevate any living space.


Project Details and Credits

Project Designers: Hemal Patel
Image Credits: Studio Hemal Patel
Project Team Members: Hemal Patel
Project Name: Stacked
Project Client: Hemal Patel


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