Modern Icons: Platner Tables
Architectural Engineering Meets Wire and Curved Silhouettes
Warren Platner was an American architect who honed his craft under such masters as Eero Saarinen, Raymond Loewy and I.M. Pei. By 1962, he was deep into experimenting with wire in furniture design, using his knowledge of structure and applying it to a smaller scale. He wanted to bring the gracefulness of traditional furniture to more modern silhouettes. The result is a truly stunning collection of tables and chairs that have endured for almost 50 years.
This is the dining table version of the table. The base grabs our interest while the glass top remains unobtrusive.
There is also a Platner Lounge Collection that includes these stunning chairs. They work well with Platner's mentor's Saarinan Tulip Table in this sublime hotel lobby.
This is the Platner side table. Even though it has a very modern look, it works quite well with more traditional furnishings. Don't be afraid to experiment with mixing styles.
The Platner also comes in a coffee table version. It can take up to 1,000 welds to make each piece of furniture in the collection.
Pairing the round side table with a chair that can turn a full circle is a good idea.
Consider pairing a table you can see through with chairs that hover over metal stands or pedestals. These pieces seem to float above this thick rug.
This designer has used the same trick. The chrome stands on the furniture and the semi-transparent quality of the Platner side table make this room appear larger.
The Platner works well next to a wire occasional chair in this bedroom. Easy to move around, the Platner would also make a good nightstand.
Just for fun: See if you an spot the signature silhouette of a Platner table in this image. It's another great example of well how this table can fit in with a variety of styles.
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