The Platner dining table has been a celebrated piece of furniture design since its creation in the 1960s by American architect and interior designer Warren Platner. Its distinctive base, made of curved metal rods, has become an iconic feature of mid-century modern style.
Today, the Platner dining table continues to be a sought-after piece of furniture, admired for its unique design and enduring elegance.
In this review, I will explore the features and qualities of the 2023 Platner dining table, examining its design, functionality, and overall value. Whether you are a design enthusiast or simply looking for a beautiful and functional dining table, read on to discover why the table remains a timeless classic.
What I Think of the Design & Functionality
I find the Platner dining table stunning and iconic. It has become a symbol of mid-century modern design with its elegant curves, exquisite craftsmanship, and timeless style.
Originally developed in 1966, this dining table was inspired by natural elements. The curved legs were created to imitate the branches of a tree and give the table an airy, organic look. Its solid steel frame features intricate detailing that gives it a light and delicate feel, while offering outstanding structural integrity. The top surface comprises hundreds of individually polished rods welded together, creating a smooth, reflective surface that adds depth to the design.
This dining table not only looks amazing, but it is incredibly functional as well. Despite its stunningly delicate appearance, it is quite durable due to its robust steel frame construction, making it suitable for everyday use as well as special occasions when entertaining guests. Additionally, due to its small footprint, it can be easily incorporated into any dining room or kitchen regardless of size or layout constraints.
Overall the Platner dining table is an exceptional piece of furniture that has endured the test of time since its initial conception in 1966. It provides both aesthetic beauty and functional utility with its graceful curves and sturdy construction. While simple in form, this dining table will make a bold style statement when placed in any home or office space!
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Is It Durable?
The Platner dining table is an iconic and timeless piece of furniture, renowned for its durability and resilience. Its production consists of hundreds of welded steel rods, all securely attached to curved spines, creating a solid structure that can withstand all kinds of use. Despite its delicate appearance, this dining table is incredibly strong and resilient; it can easily withstand everyday life’s wear and tear. The materials used also ensure this furniture piece is resistant to scratches, dents, and other damage.
Furthermore, as the entire structure is made out of metal, it won’t be affected by moisture or extreme temperatures like wood would be. The Platner dining table stands out regarding durability and will remain in good condition for many years to come if taken good care of.
Why Is It Popular?
The Platner dining table is still popular today for several reasons. First and foremost, its unique and elegant design continues to appeal to design enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates mid-century modern style. The table’s distinctive base made of curved steel rods creates a sculptural and airy quality, while the various tabletop options allow for customization to suit a range of aesthetic preferences.
In addition to its aesthetic appeal, the Platner dining table is also a practical and functional piece of furniture. Its round shape encourages conversation and socializing, and the various tabletop materials offer a range of options for different lifestyles and needs. The table is available in several sizes, making it a versatile choice for multiple spaces, from large dining rooms to smaller breakfast nooks.
Finally, the Platner dining table is also a high-quality and well-crafted piece of furniture. The table has been manufactured by Knoll since its creation, ensuring consistent quality and attention to detail. With its timeless design, practical functionality, and quality craftsmanship, it is no surprise that the table remains a popular and sought-after piece of furniture today.
The Platner Dining Table in Popular Culture
The Platner dining table has made several appearances in popular culture, particularly in movies and television shows. It has been featured in the set design of films such as “Mad Men” and “The Devil Wears Prada,” as well as in popular TV shows like “Friends,” “The Office,” and “The Sopranos.”
In addition to its appearances on screen, the Platner dining table has also been used in high-profile interior design projects, including at luxury hotels and restaurants worldwide. Its enduring popularity and versatile design have made it a popular choice for designers and tastemakers looking to add a touch of mid-century modern style to their spaces.
Overall, the Platner dining table has become a cultural icon, recognized for its unique and timeless design that continues to captivate and inspire people across generations and around the world.
How Much Does It Cost?
Generally speaking, the Platner dining table is considered a high-end piece of furniture, which is priced accordingly.
For example, a smaller 36-inch table with a glass top may start at around $3,000, while a larger 54-inch table with a marble top could cost upwards of $10,000 or more. Remember that these prices are just estimates, and the cost can vary depending on the specific configuration and retailer.
Despite its higher price point, many people consider the Platner dining table a worthwhile investment due to its timeless design, high-quality craftsmanship, and versatility. It is important to note that some retailers offer financing options or payment plans to make the purchase more accessible, so it is worth exploring these options if you are interested in owning a Platner dining table.
Where Can I Buy One?
The Platner dining table is a popular and iconic piece of furniture that can be purchased from various furniture retailers and design showrooms. Here are a few places where you can buy one:
- Design Within Reach: Design Within Reach is a modern furniture retailer that sells a wide range of iconic designs, including the Platner dining table.
- Knoll: Knoll is a furniture manufacturer that produces the Platner dining table, and they have a network of authorized dealers and showrooms where you can view and purchase their products.
- YLiving: YLiving is an online retailer specializing in modern and contemporary furniture and decor, and they offer a selection of Platner dining tables.
- 1stdibs: 1stdibs is an online marketplace for high-end vintage and contemporary furniture, and they often have a selection of Platner dining tables available for purchase.
- Local furniture retailers and design showrooms: Depending on your location, there may be local furniture retailers or design showrooms that carry the Platner dining table. It can be helpful to search online or check local directories to find options near you.
It is worth noting that the availability and pricing of Platner dining tables can vary depending on the retailer and the specific configuration of the table, so it is important to shop around and compare prices and options before making a purchase.
Is There Any Replica of the Platner Dining Table?
There are many replicas of the Platner dining table available on the market. Because the original design was created in 1966, its copyright has expired, and it is now considered part of the public domain. This means that anyone is free to reproduce the design, and there are many manufacturers and retailers that produce and sell replicas of the table.
However, it’s worth noting that the quality of replica furniture can vary widely, and not all replicas are created equal. Some replicas are made with lower-quality materials or construction methods and may not hold up as well over time. Others are made with high-quality materials and construction methods and may be nearly indistinguishable from the original.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Platner dining table is a timeless and elegant piece of furniture that will impress anyone who appreciates classic design. While the original table is undoubtedly an investment, its high-quality construction and iconic design make it well worth the cost for those who want to invest in a piece that will last a lifetime. For those on a budget, high-quality replicas of the table are also available, providing an affordable way to bring the beauty and style of the Platner Dining Table into your home. No matter which option you choose, the Platner dining table is sure to be a stunning addition to any dining room or living space.
FAQs Related to the Platner Dining Table
Who designed the Platner Dining Table?
The Platner dining table was designed by American architect and interior designer Warren Platner. The table was introduced as part of the Platner Collection, which Platner designed for Knoll in 1966.
Are Platner dining tables expensive?
Generally speaking, Platner dining tables are considered to be luxury or high-end pieces of furniture and are often priced accordingly. The use of high-quality materials such as metal and glass, as well as the intricate wire base design, can contribute to the table’s higher cost.
That being said, prices for Platner dining tables can range widely depending on the specific model and the retailer. Some models may be available for a few thousand dollars, while others may cost tens of thousands of dollars. Additionally, there are some replicas and knock-offs of the Platner dining table available at lower price points, although these may not feature the same level of quality and craftsmanship as the authentic design.
How do you clean a Platner dining table?
Use chrome polish or metal cleaner to clean it. You’re done if the result is satisfactory, and you can keep it well waxed. However, if there is too much corrosion damage, you should take it to a plating shop because it is impractical to replate it yourself.
