Location
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Status
Completed 2010
Client
Independent
Cost
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Designed in concert with the Sepal Side Chair, the Sepal Table is an exploration of the capabilities of modern composites. The table is in essence a simple plane which has been moulded on the vertical axis into stiffened planes, a spanning beam, and legs. A more elaborate explanation begins with an uncured resin and carbon fibre sheet bound at its edges. A consistent pressure force exerted from the sides loosens the material, slowly creating ripples in the plane. With an additive pressure over time these ripples converge and solidify at the interior of the rectangular plane, creating a central ridge and diagonal tributaries. As this ridge cures and stiffens, the force, ultimately seeking an exit downward through the plane, forms a valley between the ridges. As the valley deepens shaping a beam, tears form at the unbound corners of the plane. These tears allow cupped legs to press beyond the plane. As the remaining force pushes across the table surface towards the solidified ridge, a slight concave depression is left in the surface plane. Pouring over the taut central ridges from the table surface, a bellied beam is pressed and solidified. From the beam, the remaining pressure exits towards the unbound corners, sculpting narrow direct legs. The complete cured form recalls its creation in tracing water over its surface; the four table surface planes collecting thin sheets of water, which overflow at the central spine into the main beam, gathering at the central beam and ultimately spilling out through the cupped legs.
The generous dimensions of the table suit it to the function of a dining or conference table, allowing for eight seats by its length and two by its width. The pressed beam and legs are positioned to the center of the table plane to not interfere with the function of the table surface. While the fluid collecting nature of the form is responsive to drink, the central ridge and edges are designed to evenly support a sheet of glass, if the fluid lines are desired as a visual element and not a tactile one. The open legs and beam can hide and accommodate corded and cabled electronic necessities.