MANTIS TABLE

This custom table showcases triangles, timber & thoughtful design

The Mantis Table is handcrafted in New Zealand from maple, and uses triangles and a coloured table top as simple yet stunning design features. When viewed from the side you’ll also notice a bevel cut trim of timber which further enhances this light, elegant piece.

The Mantis Table was a Finalist in the Designers Institute Best Awards 2020 competition.

A study in balance: form, function & craft

It’s said that every cloud has a silver lining and lockdown gave craftsman, Mike Laustsen time to be creative and experiment. The apparent simplicity of the table he created belies the time and intricacy that has gone into its design and construction.

The table top has a solid timber base with a coloured top made from a German plant-based linoleum. This organic, natural product bears no relation to what we commonly call lino in New Zealand. Frequently used in Danish furniture, and available in your choice of 15 colours, it’s made from plant-based fibres combined with linseed oil, and is not a plastic vinyl, paint or laminate finish. The top looks and feels like leather to the touch, is strong and can handle minor scratches, which will rub out with walnut oil.

Mike used new techniques to cut the razor sharp points of the mortise and tenon joints as part of both the design and structure. The tenon is made from Wenge, a dark brown African hardwood with close, blackish veining. Even the view below the table demonstrates the quality of the design, with the leg rails meeting at the centre where the exposed wedge adds another detail in Wenge timber.

Materials: Maple (or your choice of ash, oak or walnut), plant-based linoleum and Wenge

Dimensions: 1.2m x 1.2m

Care: After use, wipe the table with a diluted Danish soap to maintain its protective layer. Remove minor scratches on the table top by rubbing a walnut directly on the scratch to heal the fibres of the product.

Each piece of furniture takes up to two weeks to be meticulously handcrafted. Waitlist times can vary but expect to receive delivery of your piece of Mike Laustsen Furniture in approximately three months.