Phebos Xenakis recently won silver at the European Product Design Award with his project ‘Trapesi’ in the category of Outdoor and Exercise Equipment/Patio/Garden Furniture and Accessories.

When visiting a café, it is an obvious peoples’ question where to put their bag or purse. The challenge was to create a system that solved this problem. Each corner of the Trapesi table consists of a fold that can be used as a hook to hang a bag or a purse on it. If desired, the fold can also be used as a compartment for a magazine or newspaper.

The legs are indirectly connected with the tabletop through the middle structure. This makes it look as if the tabletop is levitating and creates a more open feel. The middle structure was designed in a way to not act as an extension but rather as a design aspect of the table itself with each fold offering structural stability and functionality to the table whilst at the same time being aesthetically pleasing to the eye.

By creating a fold at each corner the user can decide as where to place his or her bag, this allows increased visual contact with the bag. Its simple structure makes it easier to assemble and disassemble the table into 6 main pieces. Each part can easily be replaced if damaged.

The legs and tabletop are made from solid oak wood. The middle structure is coated with a layer of polyurethane. This coating serves two purposes: It gave the design a sleek satin look whilst at the same time reduced sharp edges to prevent any damage regarding the bags, purses hanged on there. 

Data sheet

Materials: oak wood, steel, polyurethane coating

Dimensions: 650mm x 650mm x 780mm

Uses: indoors & outdoors

Designer: Phebos Xenakis

Photographer: Nathan Devreese

About Phebos Xenakis

Phebos Xenakis (22) is a young Belgian designer with Greek roots. Recently graduated in Industrial Product Design he decided to pursue a career in the furniture design sector.