Boulter

Coffee Table

Build Time - 2 weeks | Total - 5 weeks

The Boulter House - Cincinnati, OH

Design Goals

This project aimed to design a mid-century modern coffee table that combines clean aesthetics with everyday function, with a focus on storage.

Learning Outcomes

This project strengthened my woodworking skills, deepened my understanding of modern design, and taught me to balance form and function while managing a project from concept to completion.

Process

Design Research

Research sources: AND Academy | Boulter house tour

Furniture Trends

Furniture with tapered legs, clean spaces, and simple form
Simple but highly practical design
Contemporary form with high usage of geometry
Ample usage of natural materials
Minimalism and clean lines

Goal

Create a piece that was geometric, sleek, and highly functional
Quality craftsmanship
A design that was visually appealing from all angles
Develop my woodworking skills
Gain a deeper understanding of what makes good furniture design, both in form and construction.

Inspiration Collections

Ideation

Blueprint Drawing

Templates

Domino Joints View

Design Changes

After

Before

* Slimming down the table makes for a more graceful form. Re-designing the stretcher allows for a floating effect while preventing the top from cupping. Adding a 4-degree angle to the legs creates a well-rounded design that considers all three axes.