Mantis is a family of tables that wears its intellect on its sleeve. In tackling the assembly, Brigitte Shim and Howard Sutcliffe set an additional challenge for themselves: Could a singular approach to stabilizing the tables’ legs be adapted to tops of different sizes and dimensions? The pair realized that, by 3D-printing custom components from stainless steel, they could join metal struts at any angle of their choosing and thereby float circular, rectangular or elliptical surfaces of solid walnut high above sculpted wooden legs. This process leaves the architectural supports in full view and creates a striking look.

Product: Mantis Designer: Shim-Sutcliffe Architects, Canada Manufacturer: Two Degrees North, Canada