Sufi: A Mystical Table Inspired by Mevlevi Philosophy

A Dynamic Design for Multiple Functions

The Sufi Table draws inspiration from the Mevlevi Dervishes and their centuries-old philosophy of purity, love, and humanism. Designed by Yılmaz Dogan, this table reflects the essence of Sufism, a living culture that has spread across the world from its birthplace in Anatolia.

At the heart of the Sufi Table is its grooved conical carrier leg, which takes its shape from the symbolic Tennure, the long skirted dress worn by the Mevlevi Dervishes. This leg design allows the table to be adjusted to different heights, catering to various functions and needs. With its simplicity and versatility, the Sufi Table can transform into a service and display unit or a meeting table while serving as a dining table, embodying its mystical potential.

The Sufi Table is crafted using CNC process units, with the conical carrier leg made from solid wood or block marble. The medium carrier unit, with a diameter of 150mm, can be coated in chrome, copper, or gold over stainless steel. The metal pipe profile, which enables height adjustment, includes a thick threaded screw step that supports the foot and the upper table. By turning the table top in its axis, the height can be easily adjusted to the desired level.

With a 140cm diameter upper table made of wood or marble, the Sufi Table can serve different functions within the height range of 70cm to 90cm. It is suitable for use in residential, office, and public spaces, serving as a meeting room table, dining table, exhibition table, or serving table.

Yılmaz Dogan aimed to create a deep connection between the philosophy, story, and design of the Sufi Table and its users. The table's simple and functional specifications allow it to adapt to changing needs while conveying the inner peace of the Mevlevi philosophy, which emphasizes the concept of being Nothing.

The Sufi Table project began in early 2017 and was completed in March 2018 in Ankara. Yılmaz Dogan's research on Mevlevi philosophy and his efforts to understand the centuries-old teachings of Mevlana played a crucial role in shaping the design. The challenge lay in capturing the profound philosophy of Mevlevi in a leg form that reflects simplicity. The Tennure dress, brought to life in the movements of a Dervish, was reimagined in a modern interpretation, with the height adjustability achieved through a grooved foot in the center.

The Sufi Table, designed by Yılmaz Dogan, is a testament to the designer's belief that the traces and shapes derived from ethnic cultures and their philosophies hold immense value for designers. Inspired by the Mevlevi Dervishes and their philosophy, the Sufi Table is a dynamic and versatile piece of furniture that seamlessly blends spirituality and functionality.

Image courtesy of QZENS Furniture & Design.

This Design was awarded the Iron A' Design Award in the Furniture Design category in 2019. The Iron A' Design Award recognizes well-designed, practical, and innovative creations that meet professional and industrial requirements. The Sufi Table stands out for its integration of industry best practices, competent technical characteristics, and its contribution to a better world through fulfillment and positive feelings.