Lying low

Though close to the ground, coffee tables should make their presence felt in a design scheme.

2_SWEET TREAT

Inspired by chocolates and their centres, Dylan Farrell’s ‘Module’ tables for Jean de Merry, POA, combine aged and polished brass and can be staggered to suit the room layout. DYLAN FARRELL of Dylan Farrell Design says coffee tables are his favourite functional design element. “Most often, I would first select the floor finish, then the rug and then the coffee table. Where flooring sets the ‘stage’ for a room, a coffee table sets the narrative. It predicts if not predetermines the mood of a space. Second only to art, a coffee table can be the most flexible decorative element. Flowers on a coffee table are not my preference, as the low height makes them feel misplaced and meek. I would instead use moss or other low plants. I prefer books and boxes, as the clean geometry does not distract. My ultimate preference is to have a table interesting enough to stand alone or to partner with a single artistic or organic ‘friend’, so the two can have a dynamic dialogue.” dylanfarrell.com