Rising Table by Robert van Embricqs.

The rising table is Robert van Embricqs' latest manifestation of a project that began with the Rising Chair. The idea is simple, and that is to commence with a flat surface that can transform into a piece of stylish furniture. Looking at natural transformations, that function beautifully without cumbersome, or clumsy design, provided the inspiration for the incision pattern that in turn became the latticework of “woven” wooden beams that make-up the table's centre. Perhaps unusual for such an interesting piece of furniture, the designer was clear that it must function well, and be able to be produced on a mass scale. The key is the hinge detail in the slats, but the art comes in where the slats are cut, creating curved patterns in the table top when the slats fold down. This enriches the surface without compromise in functionality. In fact the “V” shaped supports, bring great stability to the table second only to its sculptural beauty. Gratitude Architizer.