Irregular table top

Types of Irregular Table Top

Irregular tabletops are not manufactured in standard round or rectangular shape. This property adds uniqueness to a table and makes it a talking point in the room where it is placed. They come in diverse styles and each of them introduces a new flair to the house. Below are some of the common types:

• Freeform Table Tops

  These tables have no definite shapes at all. They are a perfect choice when building or decorating a home with a natural theme since they look like they were taken directly from a forest. The absence of straight lines in the freeform table tops gives an easy-going and informal vibe to a room and, thus, are most suitable in casual environments.

• Live Edge Table Tops

  Live edge table tops are made of natural wood. It retains the original edge of the tree on at least one side of the table, and this creates a very irregular but beautiful shape. Of course, each live edge top is also unique and depending on the type of wood used, they can have either a rustic or an ultra modern appearance. Normally, such types of tabletops are widely used in homes with a rustic or industrial kind of décor.

• Asymmetrical Table Tops

  These tops have a mirror image of non-conventional shapes. Asymmetrical tabletops have straight lines but the two shapes are not the same. It is cutting the wood as it appears to be in a geometric formation. This design gives a modern and unusual touch to the interior and is commonly used in contemporary or minimalist surrounding.

• Polygonal Table Tops

  These are irregular but, as the name suggests, consist of symmetrical and shaped angles. Notable examples of such types of irregular tabletops are pentagonal or hexagonal tops. They have a more disciplined look compared to the freeform or live edge tops but still break the monotony of conventional round or square tops. Polygonal tabletops add a fresh and fun element to furniture and are mainly used in modern or eclectic style interiors.

• Triangular Table Tops

  This kind of irregular shaped table top has three sides only, thus, not so easy to produce. Triangular table tops are mostly used in small spaces or as side tables in larger spaces. Their unique shape brings an additional feature to the design of a room and is ideal for contemporary or innovative style interiors.

Irregular Tabletop Material & Durability

Irregular shaped tabletops come in a wide variety of materials, and each one of them has varying degrees of durability as well as different looks. They include:

• Solid Wood

  Wood is one of the most common sources of irregular shaped tabletops because they give a natural feel and look to a room. The durability of a wooden top is highly dependent on the type of wood used. Hardwoods like oak, maple and walnut are very durable and will serve for many years if properly taken care of. Softwoods like pine are easily damaged and may have to be changed after some time.

• Glass

  This has a very contemporary feel and comes in any shape and size. Glass can be very strong but if it is tempered, it can also break in a safe manner. Irregular glass tabletops can have a polished, rough or sandblasted edge finish giving different looks to the glass. In terms of maintenance, this type of top will always require cleaning to avoid fingerprints or smudges.

• Metal

  Metals such as steel, aluminum and copper provide an industrial and modern appeal. Metal tabletops are extremely durable, resistant to water and easy to clean. Over time, depending on the type of metal used, it may get scratches and dents. However, each of these ways also contributes to the establishment of patina on the surface.

• Concrete

  This is a very strong and heavy material. Irregular concrete tabletops create a very unique, modern and rough texture. The downside with concrete is that it is very not easy and not convenient to move and it can be also think and heavy. In addition, though it doesn't chip easily, it can also break and has the tendency to get stained if not properly sealed.

• Laminate

  Irregular shaped tabletops that are of laminate material can be found in a wide range of colors and finishes. It is a cheap option since it has an overlay on top of cheaper materials like particleboard or MDF. A laminate tabletop is reasonably long lasting, thus, it is easy to clean. However, it is not as strong as a wooden or metallic tabletop and may be easily damaged if not well taken care of.

Commercial Uses of Irregular Table Top

Irregular shaped tabletops bring a unique and admirable feature to the space they occupy. Below are some areas where these types of tabletops are commonly used:

• Residential Use

  These tabletops can be used in homes in almost all the rooms. They give an inviting and comfortable feel when used for dining, having coffee or just socialising. Due to its uniqueness, irregular tables are also used in the living room and attract attention as they are a piece of artwork. In addition, houses with contemporary and industrial interiors also use polygonal and live edge varieties.

• Restaurants and Cafes

  These are ideal for use in restaurants and cafes as they create a new atmosphere and promote conversation among guests. Irregular shaped tables are mostly used in casual dining areas where the aim of the restaurant is to create a warm and relaxed environment. They can also be used in outdoor dining areas to give a more natural and relaxed feel.

• Offices

  In offices, irregular tabletops are mostly used in meeting rooms or breakout areas. They make a good difference from traditional boardroom tables and promote creative thinking and collaboration. Freeform or live edge tops are ideal for informal meeting areas where a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere is preferred.

• Retail Spaces

  These tables are mostly employed in the retail sector as they provide a striking visual focus and enhance the overall shopping experience. Irregular tabletops are usually used to display merchandise, present items or even to create seating areas for customers. Pentagonal or triangular shaped tables are ideal for suchspaces as they are attractive and do not consume a lot of space.

• Event Venues

  These tables are ideal for use in event venues like banquet halls, wedding venues and party rooms where the aim is to create an ambiance that is conducive to relaxation. Irregular shaped tables are perfect for cocktail lounges and wedding receptions because they encourage mingling and talking. They can also be customized to suit the theme or style of the event, making them a popular choice for all types of events.

How to Choose Irregular Table Top

Choosing an irregular shaped tabletop will depend on a number of tests. Some of them are outlined below:

• Shape

  The shape of an irregular shaped tabletop will have a very big influence on the general appeal and usability of the table. Freeform tops provide a casual and spacious working area, whereas polygonal and triangular types have a modern and smart feel to them. When choosing the shape, always consider its proportion to the space available in the room as well as its compatibility with other furniture.

• Size

  The size is also an important consideration. Large irregular shaped tabletops can overwhelm a room, while a small one can look insignificant in a big room. In addition, it is important to take measure of the space available in the room and the size of the surrounding furniture so as to ensure that the top is proportional to them.

• Style

  Irregular tabletops come in various styles that vary widely depending on the type of material used. The natural appeal of a wooden irregular tabletop is ideal for rustic styles, while the glass top is a preferable option for modern interiors. A live edge table gives an industrial feel to a room and the polygonal shapes are more suitable for contemporary designs. When choosing a tabletop, always consider its compatibility with the general theme of the room.

• Functionality

  Irregular shaped tabletops are suitable for casual and lounge areas but are not very ideal for formal occasions or working spaces. Rounded or freeform tops are best used in casual setting since they invite users to mingle and talk. On the other hand, polygonal or triangular tops are suitable for modern styled rooms. One also has to consider the usability for instance, if there is enough working space on the top and if it is comfortable.

• Material

  The material used to make the irregular shaped tabletop will affect its durability, maintenance and appearance. Solid wood costs more and takes longer to install compared to other materials but gives the best quality and will last a life time. Glass is contemporary and appealing but prone to breakages and will require frequent cleaning to maintain its cleanliness. Depending on their need or want, one should select a type of material that will suit them needs with respect to looking good and enduring wear and tear.

Q&A

Q1: What is an irregular shaped tabletop?

A1: As defined an irregular shaped tabletop has no standard shape. In other words, it is not round or square or rectangular. This creates a unique look and feel, compared to the traditional tables, that makes the tabletop a focal point of every room.

Q2: What is the advantage of an irregular shaped tabletop?

A2: The main benefit of an irregular tabletop is that it creates a unique and eye-catching difference from the normal round and squarer shaped tables. In addition, irregular shaped tables invite people to sit next to each other, thus encouraging social interaction.

Q3: What materials are used in making irregular shaped tabletops?

A3: As stated before, irregular shaped tabletops can be made of wood, glass, metal, concrete and laminate, each providing a different look and feel as well as durability.

Q4: How should one select an irregular tabletop?

A4: While selecting the irregular shaped tabletop, one should have the purpose, space, style and preferably the material in mind.

Q5: Are the irregular tabletops suitable for commercial use?

A5: Yes, these tabletops are mostly preferred in commercial settings like cafes, restaurants, retail stores and event venues because they create a relaxing and inviting atmosphere that promotes togetherness.