null

What Exactly Is a Tulip Table?

Posted by Maureen on Sep 20th 2020

The 20th Century is renowned worldwide for its amazing design deliverance - especially in the furniture industry! And, the iconic Tulip Table is another one of these landmark designs that redefined the way we perceive typical tables.

In fact, it was such a success that it even spawned a sub-genre of side tables, coffee tables and elliptical table tops. The story behind the conception of the Tulip Table, first pedestal table ever, is rather interesting.

This innovative idea was by Finnish born Eero Saarinen - an architect at profession and a furniture designer at heart! His conception was based on a personal grievance: he absolutely abhorred the “slum of legs” with typical rectangular shaped tables and chairs when fitted against each other.

He dreamt about a table with smooth curves and charisma that wouldn’t look cluttered at a glance. It was this need that became the mother of invention for the Tulip Table! So, asking yourselves what exactly is the Tulip Table?

Let’s take a look at 4 compelling reasons that make it so unique:

1. Remarkable Design

The design of the Eero Saarinen inventine dining table consists of a platform base rising from the ground in the shape of an inverse tulip and seamlessly integrating into a smooth, round table top. Lovely!

It’s the ideal piece of furniture for your home if you’re looking for flexibility and great interaction - both physical as well as visual!Doesn’t this tulip-shaped beauty perfectly embody organic modernism?

2. Timeless Appeal

Over the course of decades, the sculptural Tulip Table has not simply become iconic, it has also become timeless. Did you know it's been more than 50 years ever since it was introduced by Eero Saarinen to the world and people are still obsessed with it? How could they not!

It’s groundbreaking design, sleekness, understated beauty, organic curves and gorgeous form.This mid century modern masterpiece has long lasting appeal!

3. Becoming a Concept

In time, the Tulip Table has become more of a concept rather than a physical articulation of someone else’s designs. The pedestal base, the curved marble look, seamless and classy shape -they all sprouted a broad of tables!

For instance, the same design concept can be applied to elliptical table form and is now available throughout the world. It's truly something that’s become a phenomenon, more than a physical object.

4. Functionality Meets Elegance

What sets the Tulip Table apart is how it exudes unfettered grace and elegance, more than anything else. It’s gorgeous in its refined sophistication.Nevertheless, it's also incredibly functional at the same time.

Its smooth surface is perfect for carrying out all sorts of activities with the utmost ease - from having dinner to playing cards to conversing. Its curvy top also makes it so flexible!


We hope this info inspires you. Now you know what makes the Tulip Table so unique! This beauty was designed back when experimentation with modernist forms were All the Rage. Even now, it’s a classic. Ready to get one of these icons for yourself? Visit Manhattan Home Design for Tulip Table replicas