Description
A modular Bauhaus classic: four nesting side tables that slide into one another, combining strict geometry with Albers’ unmistakable sense of color as structure.
Designed for a Berlin interior in 1926/27, the set became an early example of modern, space-saving living: one system, many configurations — compact when nested, flexible when in use.
From Bauhaus to Modernity
What feels self-evident today — furniture that adapts to changing spaces — was groundbreaking in the 1920s. Josef Albers approached the nesting tables as a system: four elements with one clear logic, capable of multiple arrangements without losing order.
Used individually, each table becomes a precise side surface. Combined, the set reads like a structured composition: geometry first, then color. This is Bauhaus thinking in daily life — minimal, functional, and visually confident.
Original context
During his Bauhaus years, Albers worked hands-on with materials and was briefly involved in directing the furniture workshop. The nesting tables were conceived for a private Berlin interior — a small commission that grew into a lasting Bauhaus reference.
Edition & production
The re-edition is closely linked to museum contexts (often referenced through Vitra Design Museum history and later MoMA involvement). The tables are manufactured in Germany by an experienced workshop with careful craftsmanship and durable finishes. The glass tops are colored on the underside to preserve depth, clarity, and everyday resistance.
Specifications
Dimensions are listed per table (approx.). Colors refer to the glass top finish.
| Light blue (S) | 42 × 40 × 40 cm |
|---|---|
| Orange-red (M) | 48 × 40 × 47.5 cm |
| Yellow (L) | 54 × 40 × 55 cm |
| Turquoise (XL) | 60 × 40 × 62.5 cm |
| Legs | Solid oak |
|---|---|
| Frame (black) | Solid beech |
| Top | Single-pane safety glass with colored lacquer on the underside |
Care & Handling
- Clean glass with a soft cloth and mild glass cleaner. Avoid abrasive pads.
- For the wooden structure, use a dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not soak the wood.
- Lift when moving (do not drag) to protect floors and edges.
- When nesting/un-nesting, guide the tables slowly to avoid edge contact.
FAQ
Are these tables a faithful Bauhaus-era design?
The design originates from Josef Albers’ Bauhaus period (1926/27). The current set is a re-edition concept widely associated with museum contexts and produced to meet modern durability and safety requirements while preserving the original idea: a compact, modular table system.
Why is the color applied on the underside of the glass?
Lacquering the underside protects the colored surface in daily use and keeps the top visually crisp. The glass depth also gives the colors a distinctive, “floating” clarity.
How much space do the tables need when nested?
Nested, the set forms a compact footprint (the largest table defines the outer measure). This is one reason the nesting concept became so influential for modern living.
Can the tables be used separately in different rooms?
Yes. Many owners use one as a reading-side table, one next to a lounge chair, and keep the remaining pair nested as a flexible reserve — exactly in line with the original “system” idea.
Is the glass safe for everyday use?
The tops are made from safety glass. Still, avoid sharp impacts on edges and corners, and handle the tables carefully when nesting/un-nesting.
Who should I contact if I notice an issue after delivery?
Please contact us directly. We will review the case promptly and coordinate the next steps with the responsible logistics partner and, if needed, the manufacturer/workshop.