Tura Table | Limn Board
Tura Table by Mai Wahdan

Tura Table

Golden A' Design Award Winner 2025

In the foreground of this carefully composed view, a low horizontal table occupies the central zone, its form defined by dramatic contrast between robust stone supports and a sleek elevated surface. Three substantial blocks of travertine stone anchor the composition, arranged in an irregular triangular configuration with two shorter cubic masses positioned at left and right flanking a taller central rectangular pier—each block measures roughly eight to twelve inches in height, with the central support rising perhaps three inches taller than its companions, and all three exhibit the characteristic porous, fossilized texture of travertine limestone with its warm beige to pale taupe coloration and visible surface voids, pits, and natural stratification marks that create the tactile sensation of rough, ancient stone weathered by time and geological pressure, cool to imagine touching with small cavities one might explore with fingertips, the stone suggesting the temperature of basement air or shaded garden walls. Resting atop these earthen pillars extends a perfectly horizontal rectangular platform, extremely thin in profile perhaps only three-quarters of an inch thick, rendered in what appears to be brushed or satin-finished metal with subtle linear grain visible across its surface, this metal reading as smooth as polished river stones but firmer, suggesting the cool sleekness of stainless steel or aluminum that would feel slippery-smooth under one's palm with just slight resistance from the brushed texture, and this surface extends beyond its supports in gentle cantilever at both short ends, creating the visual impression of a floating plane impossibly light compared to its substantial base. Arranged atop the metal surface toward the right of center sit three ceramic vessels that add vertical punctuation to the horizontal composition—nearest the viewer, a cream-colored vase with prominent vertical ribbing that creates rhythmic shadows around its bulbous lower body before narrowing at the neck, roughly six inches tall with the texture suggesting matte glazed pottery that would feel slightly chalky-smooth under fingertips, and just beyond it toward the back edge rest two dark bowls, likely deep charcoal or chocolate brown, each displaying concentric circular patterns that catch the light, their rounded forms perhaps four inches in diameter suggesting the weight and solidity of stoneware. The table sits upon a pale neutral floor, likely polished concrete or light stone, that extends toward the background where a similarly neutral wall rises, both surfaces rendered in soft dove gray to warm putty tones that recede visually to allow the table full prominence. Dramatic natural illumination enters from the upper right, likely from an unseen window or skylight beyond the frame's edge, casting strong geometric shadows diagonally across the floor and wall—these shadows form crisp parallelograms that angle from upper right toward lower left, their edges sharp where they outline the table and vessels, creating strong contrast between brightly lit surfaces facing the light source and cooler, deeper shadows on opposite sides, this lighting suggesting the warmth of afternoon sunlight that would feel like gentle heat on exposed skin, the kind of direct illumination that makes colors appear saturated and textures clearly readable. In the far left background, deliberately soft and out of focus, a standing human figure appears in motion blur, wearing dark clothing and holding what seems to be a light-colored rectangular object, perhaps a book or tray, this figure providing subtle scale reference that establishes the table's height at approximately knee to mid-thigh level, suitable for low seating or floor cushions, while the figure's intentional lack of definition keeps full attention on the table's material and formal qualities. The overall environment suggests a minimal gallery or studio setting, perhaps a showroom or architectural interior, characterized by deliberate simplicity, neutral surfaces, controlled natural lighting, and spatial economy that allows the furniture piece to command full attention as both functional object and sculptural presence, the space feeling quiet, still, with air that seems motionless and contemplative, inviting slow observation and appreciation of material, craft, and form.

The Tura Table draws inspiration from the pyramids, built from Tura stone, a symbol of resilience and history. This influence shaped its name and design, merging ancient and modern aesthetics. It features three stone-like bases, crafted from fiberglass to replicate stone's texture while reducing weight. A seamless glass surface, secured with silicone bonding, contrasts with the rugged texture below. The stones provide stability, while the glass adds lightness and functionality. This fusion of history and contemporary craftsmanship makes the Tura Table a timeless statement piece.