Intuition is a powerful regulator – this innate sense gives us a constant stream of information, often calibrating our decision-making compass. It also manages our response to design, immediately showing us what is agreeable to the eye through age-old neural networks that determine what shapes feel good, bad, and downright unpleasant. The Taso Tray Table by Cecilie Manz for Nikari harnesses beauty and form, regarding material honesty above all, in an appeal to this innate ability. On the heels of its showcase in Helsinki at Habitare, the Taso Tray Table works to soften the relationship between designer and consumer, offering a Nordic transitional piece and beautiful surface, anywhere you might need one.
This piece from Nikari is exactly what it says it is. In a world of fake news and false advertising, this table stands proudly in its simplicity with no extraneous function or adornment to navigate. The handle extends diagonally over a square body, its wide footprint offering a sense of solidity within the delicacy of the legs. The handle communicates a lot in a simple gesture hinting at its readiness to move. Yet, it’s also meant to look good when at rest.
Like a friendly gesture, the intention behind the simple form has its own implications. Expertly distributed weight along the handle adds portability and considers ease of use for the end user. “In typology, it’s a bit like a trolley that stands still, an in-between-kind of furniture, that doesn’t need much explanation in use,” Manz shares.
Available as one tray or two and in two material options – oak and ash – the Taso Tray Table is supported by a cross-shaped base, adding visual weight and balance to the composition. With round legs leading up the table’s side, holding the trays, they eventually intersect with the top handle – a domino adding subtle but welcome detail. Given the same amount of thought and attention as their classic pieces, this release stands out and celebrates its multi-functionality.
Cecile Manz and Nikari form a natural partnership with the Taso Tray Table. Her balanced style complements their commitment to enduring Nordic craftsmanship and durability, each bringing empathy to the collaboration, making complicated tasks feel a bit easier. Believing that unnecessary waste is not the way of the future, Nikari brings Manz’ vision to life in a manner that respects our collective world. Through thoughtful and responsible creation, they demonstrate how precious earthen materials are, leading by example.
Cecilie Manz \\\ Photo: Jeppe Sørensen
To learn more about the Taso Tray Table by Cecilie Manz for Nikari, please visit nikari.fi.
Photography courtesy of Nikari .
