Project Title: Hay Festival Discussion Table
Location: Hay-on-Wye
Wood Species Used: NORTH AMERICAN RED OAK AND BLACK WALNUT
Project Description:
Hay Festival director Peter Florence set a challenging brief to produce a range of furniture designs to meet the exacting requirements for the 400 plus events held over ten days at four venues throughout the site.
The discussion table had to provide seating for up to six speakers to engage with each other and the audience as well as create a visual focal point on the stage. It was also important that the design incorporated a method for managing the microphone and computer cables. The design of the table had to be light with a removable top to enable speedy change of stage sets. It should be noted that there was often only 15 minutes intervals between events.
The design of the table is inspired by an opening book, a literary reference which seemed to be the most appropriate theme for this project. The form of the table with its elongated elliptical top was partially dictated by the requirement to accommodate up to six speakers who could engage with each other and the audience.
The radiating ‘pages’ or arms of the under-structure produce a subtle but dynamic form which achieve a rhythmic quality when viewed at different angles. The triangular walnut panel reflects the inverted shape of an opening book and references the black mountains in the Hay-on-Wye area. The use of the walnut for this element gives greater definition and clarity to the total form. The radiating arms create a distinct form that acts as a focal point for the audience.
Central to the functional requirements of the discussion table was an efficient method for managing the microphone cables. The solution was to have a continuous groove along the middle of the 2.8 meter long table that stopped short at each end by 35 cm, a central hole enabled the microphone cables to be pushed through the top of the base. The base itself was made in two “connecting” halves creating a central ‘void’ bisected by the walnut base but still enabling cables to be threaded through the bottom of the base through the top; the radiating arms of the base acting as a conduit. The walnut panel has a clever double function, as it helps to hide any wires and leads from the audience view.
The discussion table is designed in two parts to allow easy storage and movement between events. Eight wooden walnut “latches” attached to the underside of the top can be manually rotated 90 degrees to enable the top to be removed from the base.
Timber selection:
North American red oak, a lesser known species, was selected by the designer. The clients were particularly receptive to using wood from a well-managed sustainable source. American black walnut was chosen as it makes a rich dark contrast to the red oak.
FURNITURE OWNER: HAY FESTIVAL OF LITERATURE AND THE ARTS
DESIGNER: PHILIP KOOMEN
MAKER: JAMES WILLIS
WOOD SUPPLIER: TIMBMET LTD
