Meals can get messy, and though it's nice to approach a clean eating surface before dinner begins, the Ecological Table serves up a different surprise.
Jip Piet Hilhorst designed this earthy piece of furniture using moisture-rich dark soil. I imagine there must be some inner structure to keep the heavy dirt in such a sturdy rigid form, but the observer can see no indication of any additional support. Four thickset square legs hold up a compact tabletop which features a delectable selection of live leafy greens.
The concept of a clean surface is abandoned in this organic rethinking of a common object, offering tiny plants and herbs that come built into the Ecological Table. Perhaps the underlying message of this biological bench is a suggestion of healthy and sustainable nutrition?
Dirty Dinner Tables
The Ecological Table Brings Mess and Meal Together with an Earthy Touch
Trend Themes
1. Organic Furniture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating furniture pieces that incorporate organic elements such as live plants or sustainable materials.
2. Living Surfaces - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Developing surfaces or tabletops that feature built-in plants or other living elements to bring a touch of nature into interior spaces.
3. Sustainable Dining - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Designing dining experiences or products that promote healthy and sustainable nutrition, encouraging people to connect with nature through their meals.
Industry Implications
1. Furniture - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introducing new furniture designs that cater to the growing demand for eco-friendly and nature-inspired pieces.
2. Interior Design - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Incorporating living elements and organic materials into interior design projects to create unique and environmentally conscious spaces.
3. Food and Beverage - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Creating innovative dining experiences or products that emphasize the connection between food, nature, and sustainability.