RM I Is a Perplexing Table Made Out of Square Aluminum Tubes

Zurich-based architect Joseph Smolenicky's latest furniture addition to his United Objects collection is the RM I Table. This perplexing table is made completely out of square aluminum tubes configured in a formation that reveals how a complex object can be made out of a simple material.

With the RM I, the beauty is in the details, and there are many of them. The structure of the square tube informs the expression of this table. The staggered edge of the rhombus table top arises directly and natural from the table legs below. On the flip side, the table legs develop as a vertical continuity of the horizontal tubular structure of the table top.

Smolenicky chose a rhombus shape instead of the typical rectangle to promote communication between the four people sitting at the table. Whereas a rectangle forces front facing, the rhomboid form allows all four people to turn to each other.

The tabletop and table legs have a unique relationship that allows them to create rhombus-like negative space floating under the table. At the intersection of the table legs is a singular piece of vertically-positioned tube that creates the illusion that the table itself is floating in the air. At the bottom of each of the table legs is a turned piece of square tubing that acts as a foot. At the top, the tips of the table legs meet the tips of the rhombus table top, creating a dramatic moment.

Joseph Smolenicky

Photos by Andreas Graber Photography, Zürich.

As the Lifestyle editor, Vy Yang is obsessed with discovering ways to live well + with intention through design. She's probably sharing what she finds over on Instagram stories. You can also find her at vytranyang.com.

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