There's nothing more difficult than designing a table that's both functional and aesthetically pleasing: while there are a number of highly recognizable design chairs and lamps, the functional constraints weighing down on a table seem so strong that the creative aspect seems to be relegated to the background.
Yet Scandinavian design is rich in iconic tables that are both functional and instantly recognizable, whether as a result of an ingenious idea - such as Alvar Aalto's "L-shaped leg" or the "span legs" of Fritz Hansen's Super Ellipse -, a particularly skilful use of materials - such as Hans Wegner's splendid wooden tables or the linoleum used by many contemporary manufacturers - or a strong formal innovation - in the manner of Verner Panton.
