Design Reading: A Table Made of Secret Compartments

http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2012/01/a-table-made-of-secret-compartments/

Usually, tables have one sole function: to be able to place items on it and or use it as a flat top workspace etc. however what happens when a table can take on more than just the one typical function? The result is the Kai Table that was designed by Naoki Hirakoso and Takmitsu Kitahara. The table they created is a wooden rectangular table that sits on the floor. Meaning there are no legs of it holding it up and what not. The table is craved by wood and from the looks of it, seems like a normal table with some discrete lining detail. That lining detail is not just a design; in fact, those lines are not even lines. The illusion of lines is actually the outlines of mini drawers. Throughout the entire table are mini drawers that can be pulled out, opened up, slide across and so on. These drawers make room for small compartments that have room to store different items. What looks like an ordinary table, has been transformed into a tiny puzzle.

            The wooden puzzle table is a very intellectual design. Creating new functions by still keeping old ones in tact is an extremely creative way to be innovative. I think this table has a good design idea, however I am not sure how effective this table can actually be. It really just comes down to preference; some people might like having the option to store things and use it as a table, others might want to keep the two separated. I personally think I prefer this idea. Giving consumers the option of doing something always makes them more inclined to like something. The only flaw I would find myself encountering is forgetting what is in what compartment. Since there are so many, it might get tricky remembering what’s where. Although overall, the idea of adding these mini compartments is a great concept.