A new narrative emerges from the bustling docks of New York, where timeworn wood and weathered metal once served as silent witnesses to countless arrivals and departures. Pier, a thoughtfully designed side table, is a testament to the transformation of discarded materials into functional art. More than just repurposing old materials, this project explores how furniture and the environment influence each other, creating a story of sustainability, memory, and connection.
Designed by: Hayeon KIM
A dock is more than a place—it is a moment in time, a junction of movement and stillness, of past and future. Inspired by this evocative setting, Pier captures the textures, history, and essence of the dock in a modern piece of furniture. The deep grain of reclaimed wood and the rich patina of aged metal, shaped by years of exposure to nature, form the foundation of its design. The structure of the docks, with their rhythmic lines and interplay of solid and open spaces, influenced the form of the table, while the soft hues of sunsets reflected on the water infused it with warmth. The result is an object that evokes memory, nostalgia, and a deep connection to its origins.
Seeing furniture through space, and space through furniture
Pier challenges the way we perceive furniture, encouraging us to engage with our surroundings in new ways. It reflects the fleeting moment of placing a coffee cup down while gazing at the sea, mirroring the delicate balance of standing at the edge of a dock. The steel plate’s narrow surface demands a mindful interaction, much like the careful steps taken on a dock’s wooden planks. Through this design, Pier becomes more than a table—it becomes an invitation to pause, reflect, and appreciate the subtleties of space and time.
Beyond its function, it connects people, spaces, and nature, offering a fresh perspective on sustainability. The table bridges the past and the present, allowing users to feel the echoes of history while creating new moments in contemporary spaces.
Materials and Design – Pier
Every material tells a story, and Pier celebrates the narrative embedded within reclaimed resources. The aged wood carries the essence of the dock’s history, with its rich textures and marks of time. The metal, shaped by exposure to the elements, showcases the beauty of natural ageing. These materials, once abandoned, find a second life in a form that is both modern and timeless. Pier embraces a minimalistic aesthetic, allowing it to seamlessly fit into various environments while retaining a distinct presence. Its lightweight, portable design makes it adaptable, offering versatility alongside its profound storytelling.
More than a product, Pier is a philosophy—a belief that sustainable materials can lead to innovation and that furniture can foster a deeper connection between humans and their environment. This table redefines what design can achieve, proving that objects are not just static elements in space but active participants in shaping experiences. From the dock to a modern home, Pier bridges history and contemporary living, creating a dialogue between the past and the future, space and people. It invites us to reconsider our relationship with the materials around us and to see design as a powerful force for meaningful change.
