Turning slats

This table certainly deserves to be described as ‘innovative’.

Its revolutionary design is incomparable to traditional extending tables. Extending has become turning. Leaves have become slats. Extension is done by hand, without a mechanism. The +4Table is a work in progress.

Extendable tables will always exist. The mechanics are continuously being perfected, while the principle remains unchanged. Extra leaves temporarily make the table longer. Always handy, and yet… Something began to gnaw at Jasper Bollen. ‘Whenever the dining table is extended at home, it’s always covered with a tablecloth. Why? Because the differences in colour between the tabletop and the extension leaves are unsightly. And that’s a shame. My annoyance about the tablecloth made me aware of the problem. This demands a solution.’

The +4Table has radically changed the principle of the extendable table. The hidden extension leaves have disappeared. The design concept revolves around the permanent slats and hands-on technique. The tabletop is made up of cross slats of 4 x 8 cm ─ which you can turn 90 degrees. In short, 4 cm becomes 8 cm, and vice-versa. A single slat makes a 4 cm difference, multiple slats a multiple of 4. (In other words, micro-steps, unlike the big jumps with extension leaves.) Extension is done without a mechanism, simply with your hands. You can do this alone or cosily together! It’s true that the oak slats can also change colour. ‘Because these naturally differ, this is not disturbing. On the contrary, they actually give the table character. You’re talking about solid oak.’ (Also take a look at how well thought out the transport is!)

The +4Table is a work in progress. The prototype is ready, and it’s now time for the next phase. How to scale up the design for production, for the market? The first introductory meetings have taken place to explore the possibilities along with interested parties. In the meantime, Jasper is already dreaming of different wood types and materials. Wengé, metal, plastic or other outdoor-proof options, perhaps a mix of materials… Dreams exist to be fulfilled, right?

Mood photos: Katoo Peeters