Design Classic: Saarinen Tulip Table
Designer: Eero Saarinen, 1956
Details: From £6,948, The Conran Shop
Great designs often arisefrom a single overarching preoccupation on the part of their creator. In the case of Eero Saarinen’s Pedestal collection, it was his distaste for the‘slum’ of table legs, which he believed made foran ‘ugly, confusing, unrestful world.’
The Finnish-American’s solution was to eliminate legs and replace them with a single stem connected to a curved base, opening up space under the table and providing a cleaner, more organic look.
The Pedestal collection seemed wildly futuristic whenit was introduced in 1956 – the Tulip chair wasa regular fixture on the Starship Enterprise, while the table featured in 2001: A Space Odyssey.
Explore more modern dining room ideas
But the real genius of the design is its versatility:it looks equally effective in a range of sizes and configurations – from round side table to oval dining table – and is at home in both the kitchen and the boardroom.
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Not only is the table itself able to blend into any aesthetic or environment, but the modern design can also be produced in a wide range of materials for the surface, furthering its adaptability and appeal among designer furniture fans.
Surround it with matching tulip chairs for an ultra designer look.
The homes media brand for early adopters, Livingetc shines a spotlight on the now and the next in design, obsessively covering interior trends, color advice, stylish homeware and modern homes. Celebrating the intersection between fashion and interiors. it's the brand that makes and breaks trends and it draws on its network on leading international luminaries to bring you the very best insight and ideas.
-
5 Easy Ways To Eliminate Cooking Odors In Your Home — Expert-Approved Tips for Strong Smells
Trust us, tackling harsh scents in your space can make a great difference to the overall feel of your home
By Cheyenne Brown Published
-
I Shop Every Day — And Justina Blakeney’s Target Pouf Might Be My Best Find of the Year
This stackable ottoman is the stylish solution to your space-saving woes and seating dilemmas
By Julia Demer Published
-
Dining room wall ideas to set the mood for relaxing and entertaining
Get your guests talking with dining room wall ideas that are guaranteed to grab the attention, from hand-painted murals to flamboyant wallpapers
By Keith Flanagan Last updated
-
Dining table ideas to elevate your decor out of the ordinary
The latest dining table ideas that show interior designers are bringing new shapes and styles to the table
By Keith Flanagan Last updated
-
Dining Room Ideas — 23 Ways to Create a Stylish Modern Space to Gather
From simple storage to tasteful table decor, here's how designers curate the perfect convivial backdrop for dining
By Lilith Hudson Last updated
-
10 kitchen diner ideas – how to create a stylish and functional open plan space
Let these kitchen diner ideas help you design the dream space to cook, dine and entertain...
By Hebe Hatton Last updated
-
Cool and stylish home bars
Home bars to shake and stir you
By Livingetc Published
-
14 small dining room ideas – chic and clever ways to make the most of your space
These small dining room ideas prove that limited square footage needn't limit your style
By Lotte Brouwer Last updated
-
10 dining room wallpaper ideas – modern murals, quirky prints and subtle styles tp update your space
Adding pattern, texture, and personality, these dining room wallpaper ideas are sure to impress your guests
By Hebe Hatton Last updated
-
DECORATING TREND: ROUGH CUT
Forget about trad looks – this season’s timber furniture and accessories feature unusual grains and offbeat finishes.
By Livingetc Published