We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Attila Stromajer about their original and creative Table design work. Attila Stromajer is an award-winning industrial designer, that makes our world a better place with their original table works.
Attila Stromajer ("AS") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work Fireplace Table. Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
AS : I was inspired by the image of setting fire which I placed indoors and modified its function. The table imitates the role of a fireplace with its lighting and the function of bringing people together. This reflects on the ancient tradition of sitting by the fire.
AS : Evoking the image of fire was the focus of my design. I wanted to place it inside a home without really setting a fire. The inside light is supposed to recall the attributes of fire and the tranquility of a welcoming home. The antiqued and rustic surface generates the feeling of burning and ashes while bringing traits of modernity and functionality to the work. My aim was to present the element of fire and the warmth of a home in an item that has many functions. Beside being a table with big storage capacity the piece can be used to display the objects it holds. In a home, we can keep our personal items in it, while in a bar or café you can put wine bottles or home decor objects in it. In addition it binds the people sitting around it together. They can gather, eat and drink, talk or play cards. That is why I recommend it for social places.
AS : I would like to show my works to a wider audience and to become an acknowledged designer.
AS : The geometry and the features of the table are rather complicated. Besides, I work as a psychologist full time so I could only devote my free time to designing. That is why it took a year to get from the original idea to the final product.
AS : No, this was not a commissioned design. It was based on my own idea. I mostly create my own designs but I am also open to produce to order if I can have my designer’s freedom.
AS : No other company uses or produces this product at the moment. I might sell or lease the production rights in the future but only if the original name or brand is kept.
AS : I am originally a psychologist and I still practise my profession. Through my work I can perfectly see how important real life relationships are in achieving balance in our lives. The power of the reality of „here and now.” Contacting through social media or other online surfaces cannot be compared to real, physical contact. Fireplace is a symbol I used to create the opportunity for people to be together and talk to each other within arm’s reach. This way we are able to look into each other’s eyes not just imagine them. The shining light melts us together giving us the feeling of belonging somewhere. This led me to come up with the concept of the piece.
AS : It was completely my own idea.
AS : This table can be suitable for anyone who likes it but I mostly recommend it for bars, restaurants, saloons or cafés, where people are likely to get together, eat, drink and talk. It would also perfectly fit in bigger apartments. It attracts people to sit around it and enjoy themselves.
AS : I think the built-in lighting, the multiple functions, the storage capacity and the whole image make this design unique. It displays different geometric forms: circle, polygon, rectangle and cube. This product is a lamp and a table at the same time.
AS : The table imitates a fireplace with its lighting. The inside light is supposed to evoke the attributes of fire and the tranquility of a welcoming home. This inspired the name.
AS : I applied modular technique. I wanted to create a special form by multiplying simple elements and blending different geometric forms. First we perceive the table as having a cylindrical form but it is actually a polygon consisting of cubes.
AS : The circular look is built up of modern, angular geometric shapes contrasting the modern and the traditional design, the surface treatment is antiqued both in its colour and material.
AS : Yes, I collaborated with joiners and a lighting professional.
AS : The role of technology appear in this design the built-in lighting and the different geometric forms. This product is a lamp and a table at the same time.
AS : I researched geometric studies and paper folding techniques.
AS : The geometry of the table is complex and was difficult to bring to life. It was challenging to find the suitable angles, to plan and carry out the precise joining, to instal and hide the electrical device, the wiring, the battery and the switch. We were also focusing on maximalizing the work’s functionality while respecting the design. The special surface treatment of each piece before the assembling was rather time consuming
AS : I wanted to put myself to the test on an international scale. Our start-up company could also benefit from the marketing power of this competition if the design is ranked high.
AS : I learned from this project that it is hard work to get from the concept to the final piece and to keep this process and collaboration free of stress. As I see it, the main challenges are in the small but important details. Also, it is difficult to find the „perfect” version for even a well-developed design. To improve myself I did some research on the internet, read professional books, studied drawing, maths and geometry. I also learned about 3D softwares and the techniques of joinery.
