A new collection of occasional tables has emerged from the long-standing collaboration between designer Magnus Long and British brand Morgan, showcasing a mastery of craftsmanship and an appreciation for the natural beauty of wood. Named the Barricane tables, this collection is defined by its flowing joints and softened, seamless connections, which give the pieces a distinctively organic and supple look. Evolving from the previously released Barricane dining chair series, these tables continue the duo’s dedication to exploring the technicality of furniture making, but with a renewed focus on sculptural design. The result is a series of pieces that blend the precision of modern technology with the skilled artistry of hand-finishing, creating tables that are as much works of art as they are functional furnishings.
From Chair to Table: A Design Evolution
The Barricane tables are not a standalone creation but a natural evolution of a previously successful design. The collaboration between Magnus Long and Morgan first produced the Barricane dining chair collection, which was conceived as an exploration of traditional cane craftsmanship. These chairs were characterized by their carefully shaped timber frames and the delicate cane work, which paid homage to a time-honored technique. The success of the chairs prompted a deeper look into the possibilities of the underlying design language, specifically the unique way that the timber was shaped and finished.
For the Barricane tables, this dedication to technical exploration continues, but with a different emphasis. While the chairs celebrated the combination of cane and wood, the tables focus entirely on the sculptural quality of the timber itself. This shift allows the designer and the brand to highlight the material in a new way, pushing the boundaries of what is possible with wood. The tables represent a continuation of a shared vision, taking the core principles of expert craftsmanship and a reverence for materials and applying them to a new furniture form, thereby expanding the Barricane collection into a versatile family of products.
The Art of a Seamless Connection
The most striking feature of the Barricane tables is the appearance of their seamless joints, which seem to flow together in an unbroken, organic line. This aesthetic achievement is the result of a meticulously balanced process that combines modern technology with traditional hand-finishing. The timber elements of each table are first shaped using precision CNC-machining. This technology ensures that each component is accurately cut, allowing for an incredibly precise fit when the pieces are joined together.
However, the precision of the machine is only one part of the story. The true artistry lies in the subsequent step, where the joined pieces are expertly finished by hand. This manual process is what gives the tables their signature softened edges and creates the illusion of a single, continuous piece of wood. This combination of digital accuracy and human skill is what allows the tables to have their unique “supple” and organic look. The result is a piece of furniture that feels both technically sophisticated and warmly handcrafted, a perfect marriage of two distinct approaches to creation.
A Collection of Versatility
The Barricane tables are a versatile collection designed to fit a variety of spaces and functions, from residential living rooms to commercial lounge areas. The collection is offered in five distinct variations, providing a wide range of options for different needs. The tables include three different coffee tables, each with a unique shape and size, allowing them to be used individually or configured in dynamic clusters. The collection also features a small, high cocktail table, perfect for bars or small seating areas, and a laptop table, which caters to the modern need for flexible workspaces.
This versatility is a key element of the collection’s appeal. The tables can be used alone as a subtle accent piece or arranged in a layered composition to create a more impactful statement. Furthermore, the tables are available in a choice of four different types of timber—beech, oak, ash, or walnut—and an array of finishes. This wide selection allows designers and customers to choose a finish that perfectly suits their existing decor and desired aesthetic, from the light tones of ash to the rich, deep hues of walnut.
Highlighting the Beauty of Wood
The Barricane tables are a powerful exploration of the aesthetic and sculptural potential of wood. By focusing on simple, clean lines and the illusion of seamlessness, the designer has ensured that the natural beauty of the timber itself remains the central focus. The lack of visible joinery and harsh edges allows the grain, color, and texture of the wood to be fully appreciated. Each table becomes a canvas on which the natural character of the chosen timber can shine.
The organic shape and softened edges of the tables invite touch and interaction, creating a sensory experience that goes beyond mere visual appeal. The design celebrates the innate warmth and tactility of the material, which stands in stark contrast to the cold, impersonal feel of some modern furniture. The Barricane tables are a compelling argument that by reducing a design to its most essential elements, it is possible to create a piece that is both timeless and deeply connected to nature.
Morgan and Magnus Long: A Shared Vision
The Barricane tables are the latest example of a highly successful collaboration between Morgan and Magnus Long. The partnership is founded on a shared dedication to expert craftsmanship and a constant push to explore the technical boundaries of furniture making. Morgan, a brand with a strong heritage of British craftsmanship, provides the manufacturing expertise, while Long, a designer with a keen eye for form and detail, provides the creative vision.
This project reinforces their shared commitment to creating furniture that is not only beautiful and functional but also built to last. The Barricane tables, with their blend of modern technology and hand-finishing, stand as a testament to what is possible when a designer and a brand are truly aligned in their pursuit of excellence. The collection is a significant addition to Morgan’s portfolio and a strong statement about the enduring appeal of thoughtful, high-quality timber furniture.
