The O.U.Table is a piece of furniture that exemplifies the balance between industrial manufacturing methods and artisanal precision designed by Douman Pour. The base consists of a 5 mm thin stainless steel plate, which is initially prepared through precise laser cutting. In the next step, the plate is shaped using a calculated rolling process and then finalized with craftsmanship techniques such as welding and bonding. This process transforms the originally two-dimensional metal plate into a high-quality three-dimensional material.
The table’s basic shape is based on a cylinder that is opened at the top. This opening creates two table surfaces: a spacious lower surface and a shorter upper plate. The recessed upper plate forms an additional concealed storage area relative to the lower surface, expanding the functionality of the piece while offering a distinct visual cue.
The recessed upper plate is a detail that adds an extra dimension to the table. This hidden storage space enhances the functionality of the furniture without compromising its minimalist aesthetic. On the contrary, the formal design contrast integrates seamlessly into the overall structure, creating an additional layer of aesthetic value.
Particularly noteworthy is the interplay between closed and open surfaces. The opening in the upper section introduces an “additive space” that uniquely defines the table’s volume. This detail creates an exciting design gesture and imparts a sculptural quality to the piece that transcends mere functionality. In its open form, the design evokes the image of outstretched arms—a powerful symbol of openness and interaction.
The choice of material—stainless steel—is a key component of the design. The surface, finished with a 320-grit orbital polish, gives the furniture a timeless, industrial elegance. The play of light and reflections on the polished surfaces ensures that the table appears differently from various angles. These reflections emphasize the precision of the edges and the clean craftsmanship of the object, while simultaneously creating a sense of visual lightness.
The simplicity of the O.U.Table design by Douman Pour is not a limitation but a deliberate choice. It allows space for a deeper connection between the user and the object, inviting observers to pause and consciously appreciate the details. The O.U.Table embodies the power of reduction, demonstrating how a simple intervention can give rise to clear functionality, strong symbolism, and emotional resonance.
