Their experience in the architectural planning and implementation of training and conference spaces made Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby aware of the need to develop a new, simple table system: To convey learning content in a modern way based on communication requires that tables be rearranged frequently. Teamwork and workshops are generally conducted at smaller clusters of tables, while open discussions are held in a circular arrangement and conventional presentations require attendees’ attention to be towards the speaker in the front of the room. Map answers these myriad demands of a table programme: The tables can be rearranged simply and quickly for flexible use and can also be stacked if needed.
The robust, melamine-coated table tops are available in rectangular, square, trapezoidal and round shapes, and enable a plethora of configurations for widely varied areas of use. Whether individual Map tables are arranged to form islands or connected into rows, the configurations can be broken down and recombined easily. The tubular steel table legs are fastened to the table tops using a fan-shaped, die- cast plate. This seemingly simple technical solution not only serves to reinforce the table top; thanks to a numbering system, it also enables a range of leg positions. Switching out a few screws enables tables to be assembled in a range of different configurations: fitted flush together or next to each other, stacked or linked to form rows. A plastic glide that can be adjusted without the use of tools ensures that the table tops always remain level.
