Samara Abou Farah Thesis Powerpint

Lebanese University
Institute of Fine Arts

First Branch Department of Interior Architecture
In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Degree of Master in Interior Architecture
Table design and its function between the legacy of

ancient civilizations and the requirements of modernity
‫ﺗﺼﻤﯿﻢ اﻟﻄﺎوﻟﺔ ووظﯿﻔﺘﮭﺎ ﺑﯿﻦ اﻟﻤﻮروث ﻣﻦ اﻟﺤﻀﺎرات اﻟﻘﺪﯾﻤﺔ‬
‫وﻣﺘﻄﻠﺒﺎت اﻟﺤﺪاﺛﺔ‬
Prepared by the student Samara Abu Farah
Supervision of Dr. Nohad Al-Toufaily
First reader: Dr. Mohammad Jaber

Second reader: Dr. Suzanne Chakaroune
Alhadath
2022-2023
The
Preamble
1. Motives for Choosing the Topic
2. Merits & Importance of this
Research Challenges
3. Objective
4. Problematics
5. Theories
6. Research Methodology
7. Overview of the thesis
TABLE DESIGN AND ITS FUNCTION BETWEEN THE LEGACY OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AND THE REQUIREMENTS OF MODERNITY 2
Motives for Choosing the Topic
Two Types Of Motives:
- Objective Motive:
Allows for an examination of how form, materials, and
functionality have evolved over time.
- Subjective Motives:
Explore how ancient practices and philosophies can inform and
inspire modern design solutions.
https://www.demilked.com/interior-design-
creative-tables/
Merits & Importance of this Research
- Research on table design can have practical applications in fields

- Exploring the requirements of modernity in relation to table design
Coffee Table Makeover with Prima

Transfers
Challenges
Several Challenges are represented in articulating this topic:
• Studying table design and its function requires interpretation of the values
and customs of a society that existed over 600 years ago. There are limited
historical records and fragmented knowledge.
• The influence of cultural biases and assumptions on the interpretation of
ancient artefacts will have its’ toll on understanding the symbolic and
functional significance of ancient tables.
Clarifying the definition of tables and
01 identifying their identity enhance -
ment in each culture.
Emphasizing the importance of space

02 planning for a comfortable and func-
tional space.
Objectives
03 Reviving table’s identity and high-
lighting its development.
and functional space.
04 Highlighting the importance of

modern furniture such as biophilic
table.
Problematics
How important is it for designers to know the identity,

1 development and function of tables, in order to build and
create the right space with the right table?
What role do present tables play in helping with

2
environmental pollution problems that is spreading through
our lives, such as biophilic tables?
Theories
• Clarity of the cultural identity of the table is one of the most important aspects for
distinguishing one civilization from another and enhancing the table function.
• Understanding how tables are an essential furniture in space planning that focuses
on providing a comfortable and distinct appearance as an element used in public
and residential buildings.
• The comparison between 15th century French renaissance table design and 20th
century biophilic table design show us that designers strive to achieve an interior
space which evokes integrity and balance.
• Biophilic tables have a positive effect on climatic environment in interior and
exterior usage.
Research Methodology
A combination of research methodology can be used to provide a comprehensive understanding of the

table design and its function between the legacy of ancient civilizations and the requirements of
modernity.
• Measuring methodology
• Comparative analysis methodology
Overview of the thesis
The thesis encompasses an introduction three chapters and a conclusion that collectively examine the historical and cultural
significance of tables, their forms, materials, symbolism, and functions across different time periods.
Introduction Provides an overview of the subsequent chapters, establishing a roadmap for the study.
Delves into the definition, background and concepts of table elements along with design principles
First Chapter and history.
Discusses the development of table styles in our day and age from modern to contemporary to
Second Chapter biophilic designs.
Impact of biophilic design through several survey analysis tracing the influences and legacies they
Third Chapter have imparted to our generation.
Synthesizes findings from each chapter, offering a comprehensive overview of the evolution of
Conclusion table design from ancient civilizations to modernity.
1 2 3
Identity of Evolution of Space

a Table Table Design Planning
through the
Ages
Chapter 1
Literature Review
Literature Review
Define the terms “modern” and “modernity” as they pertain to this study.
MODERN MODERNITY
• Generally refers to a period characterized by • Represents the state or quality of being modern,
contemporary ideas, practices, and technologies that encompassing the broader social, cultural, and
depart from traditional or historical norms. intellectual changes associated with the modern era
Simple Clean Design Trend 2023

Etymology
1400 BCE 1300 BCE

1. Latin
 A flat piece with legs.
2. Old English
 Focused on the concept of a place
where people eat.
3. Old French era
 Influence of French
late 12th BCE
Figure 5 Etymology development of the word Table
Identity of a Table
 A table is a piece of furniture with a flat surface and one or
more legs.
 Tables are an essential piece of furniture:
 Space planning
 Unique and distinctive Design
 Used to connect people in both real-world and online settings. Figure 1 Mesa Glass Table
(Eduardo Perez, 2022, "15 Furniture Pieces Designed by Famous Architects"Arch20,
https://www.arch2o.com/15-furniture-pieces-designed-by-famous-architects/)
 Classified : Fixed or Movable.

 Vary style due to changing tastes, technological advances,
and new activities or demands.
 Help us create a creatively and scientifically space
Figure 2 Cloud Table

(Studio Maks,2022, Cloud table, archhello, https://archello.com/product/cloud-table)
Evolution of Table Design through the Ages
Timeline
Tables in
Stone Age Tables in French Tables in Late
Table Design in French
Egypt Renaissance Period
(10,000 – 3,000 (3200 –
Greece (499 –
(1434 – 1527 CE)
Renaissance Baroque French
BCE) 336 BCE) Table 1450-1600 (1600 – Neoclassicism
341 BCE)
1715 CE)
1-3-1 Stone Age (10,000 – 3,000 BCE)
History: Three Distinct period:

Figure 6 Stone Age Tools Figure 7 Stone Age Table
- Paleolithic era (Initial time frame)

- Mesolithic Era (6,000 years ago)
- Neolithic era (3215 BCE)
Function: Create working environment
Material: Wood, Bones and Stones (Zagros,2017, Middle Paleolithic stone tool
known as Mousterian point", common,
(Zagros,2017, Middle Paleolithic stone tool
known as Mousterian point", common,
https://commons.wikimedia.org) https://commons.wikimedia.org)
Shape: Two pieces of stones engraved

from Mousterian point
1-3-2 Tables in Egypt (3200 – 341 BCE)
History: Two parts between the Nile river: Figure 9 Ancient Egyptians
Tables Figure 8 Egyptian Classical Table
- Upper Egypt ( rich )

- Lower Egypt ( poor )
Function: Religious Purpose, work benches,
vase holders and treasure display.
Material: Imported wood , paint and alabaster
Shape: Rectangular table with spread legs (Brier, Bob, Hobbs, A. Hoyt, Daily (Brooklyn Museum, 2016 "table Egyptian, classical, ancient near
some have Cavetto molding and decorated Life of the Ancient Egyptians, p.
200, 2008, Greenwood Publishing
eastern art", Charles Edwin Wilbour Fund,
https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/3949)
Group, google books)
with hieroglyphs.
1-3-3 Table Design in Greece (499 – 336 BCE)
History: Greece took the initial design of their Figure 10 Rectangular Greek Table Figure 11 Three Legged Greek Table
furniture from Egyptian but they alter design.
Function: Utilized for meals and focus on function
and comfort (movable)
Material: wood, metal, marble , gold and silver
plating.
Shape: - Old Greece table where rectangular and
short with soft line and decorative pattern. (Halsall, Paul. “Ancient History Sourcebook: (Alex Bergeron,2016, The Greeks and Romans
Pausanias (fl. c. 160 CE).” Fordam University. both used these tripod tables. Etruscan and
- 4th century BCE it became tall round top with October 1998.
http://www.fordham.edu/halsall/ancient/pausanias-
Roman, https://www.pinterest.com/pin)
three legs curved with animal pattern represent

bk1.asp (9 July 2012)).
feast.
Renaissance Period (1434 – 1527 CE) the Last Supper Table
History: In Renaissance era Lenoardo da Vinci

created the Last Supper for Duke of Milan Figure 12 The Last Supper: A Renaissance Masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci
Ludovico Sforza.
Date: Between 1495 and 1498
Function: For secret or public conversations
Symbolizes: - Bring people together
- The battle with trust and
forgiveness
Dimension: - 8.8 meters o width with a 4.6 (Emily Strunk,2022, The Last Supper: A Renaissance Masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci, Study, https://study.com/learn/lesson/the-last-supper-
meters of height.
painting-da-vinci.html)
Location: Milans Santa Maria Delle Grazie
Renaissance Period (1434 – 1527 CE) the Last Supper Table
The last Supper Table Design and Arrangement

Figure 19 Seating Arrangement for the Last Supper
History: Greek and roman where influence from each
other the known style of banquet is Greco-Roman
banquet (U shaped table).
Material: Dark wood
Differences: 1- U shaped
2- Reclined on couches
3- Guest were given a servant
4- Apple to access food
Arrangement feature three tables: 1- Lectus Summus
2- Lectus Medius
3- Lectus Imus
1-3-4 French Renaissance Table 1450-1600
Figure 20 French Renascence Table Table 1 Materials used in French Renascence

History: At the beginning of 15th century people stayed in
houses due political problem creating folding table. In late
17th century it transferred to comfortable life and elegance
influence such as ornamental detail ideas emerged.
Function: Dinning table too place in any room
Dimension: 87.6 × 147.3 × 81.3 cm
Material: Oak, Pine, Beach, Walnut, Fruit, Gilded and
Veneer
Shape: Four or more legs or two fan-shaped trestles
supported a huge rectangular top. The frieze was ornately
carved with palmettes, gadroons, acanthus, and strap
work. Satyrs, terms, caryatids, griffins, rams and a variety
of strange animals were among the decorative motifs on
the ornate trestles
(Margaret Corbin,2004, Draw-top table 1560–90, with later
restorations, The Met Fifth Avenue
https://www.metmuseum.org/art)
1-3-5 Tables in French Baroque (1600 – 1715 CE)
History: This period encompassed the 17th century and Figure 21 French Baroque Noble Table Figure 22 French Baroque Ordinary Table
the beginning of the 18th century. It was under the reign
of Louis XIV, popularly recognized the political value of
art and set out to create a powerful public image and set
about establishing a powerful public image.
Function: Drawer and chest
Dimension: 87.6 × 147.3 × 81.3 cm
Material: Tortoiseshell, wood, ebony, and ivory (Mentmore 1884, vol. 2, p. 63, no. 72. In addition, (André Charles Boulle,2016,"Commode", The Met
"numerous tables of marqueterie and boule" stood against Fifth Avenue in Gallery 542,
Shape: The table, which was initially made around 1700 the walls of the Gallery; Mentmore 1884, vol. 2, p. 152.) https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/2069
90)
as a mix of a chest and a desktop with drawers,
supportive systems of short spiral-shaped legs which The king stated in his written agreement, “There is nothing that indicates more clearly
adjoin the inner edges of magnificently arching feet. A the magnificence of great princes than their superb palaces and their precious
sensible cabinetmaker may have inserted the classified furniture.”
as short feet
1-3-4 Tables in Late French Neoclassicism
Figure 23 Late French Neoclassicism Tables
History: At the beginning of 15th century people stayed in

houses due political problem creating folding table. In late
17th century it transferred to comfortable life and elegance
influence such as ornamental detail ideas emerged.
Function: Working Area
Dimension: 87.6 × 147.3 × 81.3 cm
(Jean Henri Riesener,2016," Mechanical table 1781 ", The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 542,
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/200595)
Material: Oak, Pine, Beach, Walnut, Fruit, Gilded and
Veneer
Figure 24 Late French
Shape: Four or more legs or two fan-shaped trestles Neoclassicism Console
supported a huge rectangular top. The frieze was ornately
carved with palmettes, gadroons, acanthus, and strap (Sylvie Chadenet,2022, French
Furniture Styles Louis-Philippe
work. Satyrs, terms, caryatids, griffins, rams and a variety (1830-1848), Timothy Corrigan,
of strange animals were among the decorative motifs on https://www.timothy-
corrigan.com/antiques/knowledg
the ornate trestles e-center/french-furniture-styles-
louis-philippe-1830-1848)
Space Planning
Space Planning
Figure 25 Space Planning for a Table
◦ Providing enough personal space
◦ Be always mindful of other people's legs, knees and seat
arms.
◦ Understand the traffic pattern
Different Shapes: Circular Table - Square Table -

Rectangular Table (Nicholas Berry,2022, A Guide to Choosing the Ideal Dining Table Width, Early Oak Reproductions,
https://www.earlyoakreproductions.co.uk/news-blog/buying-tips/dining-table-width-advice-5399.php)
Figure 29 Table Size and Human Body Proportion

Figure 26 Circular Dining Table Figure 27 Square Dining Table Size Figure 28 Rectangular Dining Table Size
Size
(Meg Escott,2021 Circular Dining Table Size,

House Plans Helper, (Meg Escott,2021 Circular Dining Table Size, House Plans (Meg Escott,2021 Circular Dining Table Size, House Plans (Jason Hwang,2005, Body measurements (ergonomics) for table and chair: counters and
https://www.houseplanshelper.com/dining-table- Helper, https://www.houseplanshelper.com/dining-table- Helper, https://www.houseplanshelper.com/dining-table- bars, Space Bar https://www.pinterest.com/pin/324962929338305628/)
size.html) size.html) size.html)
1 2
Biophilic Table and Its Comparison between French
Materials Renaissance Table and Biophilic
Table
Chapter 2
The Interplay between Tradition and Innovation in Table Design
Biophilic Table and Its Materials
Table 2 Palette of Natural Materials
Garden Side Table by VONDOM
Figure 40 Garden Side Table by VONDOM
Figure 41 Garden Side Table Dimensions
(Ross Lovegrove, (2019), Biophilia Table, VONDOM,

https://www.mobilia.com.au/commercial/vondom/ross-lovegrove/biophilia- (Ross Lovegrove, (2019), Biophilia Table, VONDOM, https://www.mobilia.com.au/commercial/vondom/ross-lovegrove/biophilia-table)
table)
Comparison between French Renaissance Table and Biophilic Table
Table 3 Comparison between French Renaissance Table and Biophilic Table
Graph 8 Would you like to have a biophilic table? Graph 3 Please rate the level of important criteria when choosing a table.
Design Majors
Non-design Majors
Design Majors
Non-design Majors
Graph 11 What type of tables do you like the most? Graph 9 What criteria does ach style of the tables excel at?
Non-design Majors
Non-design Majors Design Majors
Graph 13 Did the design and appearance of tables vastly evolve through the
ages? Graph 10 What criteria does each style of the tables excel at?
Non-design Majors Design Majors Design Majors
1 2 3
Emotional The Impact of Biophilic Tables
Responses Biophilic Design from World
toward Interior on the Renaud
Environment Environment Companies
Chapter 3
The Impact of Biophilic Design on People and the Environment
Emotional Responses toward Interior Environment
Figure 42 computer-generated grayscale interior scenes as visual stimuli

Sibel Seda Dazkir and Marilyn A. Read of Oregon State
University conducted a study about furniture forms and
how they affect our emotional reactions to indoor spaces,
supporting the notion that employing certain furniture is
essential for promoting wellness in interior or exterior
settings (Sibel Seda Dazkir and Marilyn A. Read, 2016, p.
124).
◦ Scenes with just curved lines would evoke more positive

feelings than those with just rectilinear lines.
(Sibel Seda Dazkir and Marilyn A. Read. (2016). The Effects of Furniture Forms on Emotional Responses. Environment
and Behavior, Vol. 48(No. 1), 124-142).
The Impact of Biophilic Design on the Environment
Graph 18 Importance of the Following Biophilic Design
This research study is taken from a case study titled “Analysis
of Biophilic Design in Communal Space of an Office Building.
Case Study: Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia (PAM) Centre”, done
by Ismi Ibrahim1, Rizal Khairuddin1, Azli Abdullah1, Izzati M
Amin1, and Julaihi Wahid.
◦ This study shows how biophilic design plays a major role

in the psychology of a being especially in offices and how
it reflects positivity to our society when applied.
(Ismi Ibrahim, Rizal Khairuddin, Azli Abdullah, Izzati M Amin, and Julaihi Wahid, "Analysis of
Biophilic Degn in Common Area of an Office Building," Journal of Sustainable Development, Vol. 12,
No. 1 (2019), pp. 13-22.)
Graph 16 Biophilic Designs in Communal Space Helped Increase Work

Graph 17 Importance of incorporation of Biophilic Design Experience
(Ismi Ibrahim, Rizal Khairuddin, Azli Abdullah, Izzati M Amin, and Julaihi Wahid, "Analysis of Biophilic
Degn in Common Area of an Office Building," Journal of Sustainable Development, Vol. 12, No. 1
(Ismi Ibrahim, Rizal Khairuddin, Azli Abdullah, Izzati M Amin, and Julaihi Wahid,
(2019), pp. 13-22.)
"Analysis of Biophilic Degn in Common Area of an Office Building," Journal of Sustainable
Development, Vol. 12, No. 1 (2019), pp. 13-22.)
Biophilic Tables from World Renaud Companies
Figure 46 Social Queues That Biophilic Designs Provide
Create Cultural Ties Complexity and Order

Problem: According to NASA, man-made gas
emissions from numerous sectors have resulted in:
• A 2 degree increase in global temperature
• Melting ice sheets – Acidification of the ocean
Positive emotional simulation and refuge Enhance the knowledge of natural processes
• More frequent harsh weather conditions
Solution: Biophilic tables are crucial in the fight
against pollution. (https://www.altro.com/us/blogs/our-wellbeing-vision-through-biophilic-design)
Table 4 Wood as a Renewable Resource

lowering noise, water, and air pollution by
giving individuals access to a natural setting in
many cities,
(https://www.vedantu.com/question-answer/wood-considered-as-a-renewable-source-class-11-chemistry-cbse-
610cbe80c8186949fe45565a)
Biophilic Tables from World Renaud Companies
Figure 50 Rotation System Figure 52 Synchronized Mechanism Figure 54 Boulon Blanc
◦ Boulon Blanc Table
Table Specifications
Made by : Boulon Blanc Company
Located: Paris
Material: hard wood, recycled aluminum or steel.
Price: 700$
Fact: low-VOC indoor air quality.
Function: a table top to a dining table.
Concept :inspired to create this table from both
watchmaking and aviation
Figure 49 Watchmaking and Aviation Inspiration
(Benoit, Lucie, E. Karim, and Thomas, (2023).

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/712852295/boulon-blanc-the-next-generation- (Benoit, Lucie, E. Karim, and Thomas, (2023). https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/712852295/boulon-blanc-the-next-generation-of-transformable?lang=fr)
of-transformable?lang=fr)
1 2 3
Conclusion Results Recommendations
Conclusion
Conclusion
Figure 45 Biophilic Office Space Design
As a designer, it is necessary to
understand the importance of the table
and how it can be used to create a
functional and aesthetically pleasing
space. Tables can be used to define
space, create a sense of hierarchy and
provide a focal point for a room. They
can also be used to create a sense of
comfort and cosiness, or to add a touch
of luxury and sophistication. As a
designer, it is important to be aware of
the potential benefits of biophilic tables
and to consider how they can be used to
create a more healthy and productive
environment. (Biofilico’s first project - the global headquarters of Hero natural foods group, Switzerland, biofilico.com)
Figure 55 Analytical Framework
Results
Understanding table design is an important skill for designers to learn. By
understanding the history and evolution of table design, they can better
understand how to design tables that are both functional and sustainable. This
knowledge can be used to create safe and comfortable spaces for people to
communicate and collaborate.
Recommendations
1. Consider the environmental impact of table design.

2. Design tables that are functional and sustainable.
3. Incorporate biophilic elements into your table
design.
4. Consider the cultural context of your table design.
5. Innovate and experiment with new table designs
Table design and its function between the legacy of ancient civilizations and the requirements of
modernity
Thank you
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Lebanese University

Institute of Fine Arts

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Table design and its function between the legacy of

First reader: Dr. Mohammad Jaber

Two Types Of Motives:

- Research on table design can have practical applications in fields

Coffee Table Makeover with Prima

Several Challenges are represented in articulating this topic:

Emphasizing the importance of space

04 Highlighting the importance of

How important is it for designers to know the identity,

What role do present tables play in helping with

A combination of research methodology can be used to provide a comprehensive understanding of the

Identity of Evolution of Space

Simple Clean Design Trend 2023

1400 BCE 1300 BCE

Figure 5 Etymology development of the word Table

 Classified : Fixed or Movable.

Figure 2 Cloud Table

History: Three Distinct period:

- Paleolithic era (Initial time frame)

Shape: Two pieces of stones engraved

- Upper Egypt ( rich )

three legs curved with animal pattern represent

History: In Renaissance era Lenoardo da Vinci

Location: Milans Santa Maria Delle Grazie

The last Supper Table Design and Arrangement

Figure 20 French Renascence Table Table 1 Materials used in French Renascence

History: At the beginning of 15th century people stayed in

Different Shapes: Circular Table - Square Table -

Figure 29 Table Size and Human Body Proportion

(Meg Escott,2021 Circular Dining Table Size,

Figure 41 Garden Side Table Dimensions

(Ross Lovegrove, (2019), Biophilia Table, VONDOM,

Non-design Majors Design Majors Design Majors

Figure 42 computer-generated grayscale interior scenes as visual stimuli

◦ Scenes with just curved lines would evoke more positive

◦ This study shows how biophilic design plays a major role

Graph 16 Biophilic Designs in Communal Space Helped Increase Work

Create Cultural Ties Complexity and Order

Solution: Biophilic tables are crucial in the fight

against pollution. (https://www.altro.com/us/blogs/our-wellbeing-vision-through-biophilic-design)

Table 4 Wood as a Renewable Resource

Figure 49 Watchmaking and Aviation Inspiration

(Benoit, Lucie, E. Karim, and Thomas, (2023).

Conclusion Results Recommendations

1. Consider the environmental impact of table design.

SAMPLE FOOTER TEXT 40

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