Ten Tables, a design collection inspired by the Emirati heritage

Ten Tables is a collection of design pieces by Binchy and Binchy, the architectural firm based in the United Arab Emirates ranked among the 20 most successful boutique interior design firms in the Middle East. The series wants to preserve Emirati heritage and culture creating a sense of belonging in the community and using at the same time contemporary materials and techniques. Launched at Downtown Design Dubai, the collection has been conceived following the studio’s belief that architecture is an extension of a certain time in history. Looking at the past to define the future, the studio merges ancient reminiscences and new technologies like 3D printing, laser etching, water jet cutting, and CNC milling.  

In their design, Binchy and Binchy studio – working with masters of crafts to develop their pieces and with brands such as Kvadrat Maharam, Ranieri Lava Stone, Surface 11, Expressions FZC, Mirodec and Emirates Glass – combines cultural elements and symbols. The tops and the bases of tables are made with different techniques, representing the connection between the past and the future. In fact, some of the bases are made of thousands of compressed sheets of paper – stories or old photographs – coming from the research that the studio made on the heritage: it is like a historic archive becoming stone. Tops have patterns and materials inspired by Binchy and Binchy’s architectural projects. Nizwa Table, with a decorative pattern on the tabletop, was inspired by the opaque facade of a law enforcement training center in Oman, that guarantees privacy on the outside and hides beautiful courtyards inside. Tranquillity Table collects details from calm spaces increasing self-reflection and uses translucent, transparent and reflective materials recalling the symbology of the prayer mat.