swarm table modular geometric design

The collective motion of a large group of self-propelled entities, converging and diverging in unplanned movements that are nonetheless cohesive, inspired a modular geometric table that can grow and change in any number of ways. Swarm Table by Florence design graduate Natalie Goldfinger captures the effect of movement and motion using a series of interlocking black and white triangles in a range of sizes.

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swarm table detail
swarm table pieces

Constructed from all natural and sustainable materials, the Swarm Table is made up of three elements that interlock: a small table, a long table and an angled ‘office desk.’ These individual tables can stand on their own, or they can be configured together, fitting into a whole like puzzle pieces.

swarm table modifying

The resulting configurations can function as dining tables, conference tables, or surfaces for offices and studios. Some of the larger wooden triangles that make up the surface of the table can be lifted out to create trays, or leave room for floor lamps or umbrellas.

swarm table seated

The set will be produced by a Florentine artisan as a limited edition release.

“Swarm behavior is the collective motion of a large number of self-propelled entities. It is an emergent behavior arising from simple rules that are followed by individuals and does not involve any central coordination. This project uses swarm behavior to generate a pattern of geometry in order to create a frame for a table top. The legs extrude down from the top, in harmony with its strong geometry.”

swarm table configurations

About designer Natalie Goldfinger:

“I was born and raised in Toronto, Canada. In 2003 I began studying Math & Education at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec. Three years into my Degree, I decided to move to California to live in sunshine, and to pursue a professional Bachelor’s of Architecture at the Southern California Institute of Architecture in Los Angeles. It was here that I began to learn fabrication. After taking a chair design class, I learned to weld steel and began experimenting with repurposing and upcycling used materials.”