While surfing 1stdibs.com today I came across the coffee table below, which I instantly recognized from the August 2010 issue of Canadian House and Home, above, photo by Stacey Brandford. In my opinion, it was the most glamorous shot in the mag that month and I was crazy, absolutely crazy about the coffee table, which belongs to journalist Karen Von Hahn and her husband Thomas. I love that 1stdibs displays the table one way, like a letter M, and the Von Hahn’s present it the other way, like a W. What’s your preference? The M’s a bit golden arches don’t you think?
The 1960s era table is by designer Roger Sprunger for Dunbar. I contacted the seller, Talisman London, to get a quote and, are you sitting down? After converting the price in sterling to US dollars and including shipping from the UK to Toronto, the table would cost $4,362, give or take a few bob. Can you imagine?
August 9th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
I like the M. It reminded me of the Tour Eiffel and visually feels a bit more stable. I do see the golden arches too though.
August 9th, 2010 at 3:56 pm
It does look more stable as an M, but also more ordinary–like something you might find at IKEA.
The W feels far more elegant and airy. Personal opinion of course!
~ M.
August 9th, 2010 at 8:41 pm
Definitely the W. Much more interesting. But I’m wondering—was it designed to be used either way?
August 9th, 2010 at 8:42 pm
The M looks like something I would trip over as I was walking by, and the bolts are more visible. The W shape draws the eye upward instead of down, and seems to better fit the size of the glass top.
August 9th, 2010 at 10:59 pm
I love the W-style. It looks like the petals of a bronze stylized flower; it pulls the viewer’s attention to the table top. Love the tuxedo sofa too, just not the clour.
August 10th, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Lucky you! The “W” is so much more sophisticated-the “M” cheapens the table, just my opinion though.
August 10th, 2010 at 5:54 pm
The W looks more stylish.
August 12th, 2010 at 7:43 am
Can’t look at the M without thinking of the arches. It’s W for me.
August 13th, 2010 at 4:06 pm
Where in Canada are you? I have one in my shop in Redmond, WA for sale for only $2200, but I’d cut you a deal! You can check out my post on it here http://vicariouslylovely.blogspot.com/2009/05/roger-sprunger-60s-coffee-table.html
By the way, I agree for sure “W” is much more fluid, the “M” is too jarring. Love your blog, you have lovely taste.
August 23rd, 2010 at 9:57 am
I love this table too! I would agree I prefer the W. Chris you are a good sleuth. Dunbar is arguably the most important American furniture manufacturer in the second half of the 20th century. They, under Edward Wormley, established the right proportions and designs for domestic furniture. The majority of their output, especially Wormley’s creations, still look incredibly fresh, elegant and are totally “liveable” by contemporary standards. Although for some $2,000 or $4,000 may be costly for a table, consider it as an investment piece. Dunbar will hold its value unlike a lot of the expensive, derivative contemporary furniture. Chris maybe a post on Dunbar is in order ;)