A glass side table or a storage unit with a cover serving as a tray? Totem is not only a multifunctional furniture piece but also a testament to the limits of material exploration, craft mastery, and the poetic potential of functional objects. Designed during the internationally acclaimed Glass is Tomorrow workshop series curated by ProMateria Magazine, Totem has since been showcased in prestigious design fairs such as Maison & Objet and Ambiente, and exhibited in various countries under the ProMateria platform.
Pushing the Boundaries of Glass Side Table Design
Totem stands out as a technical and aesthetic achievement in mold-blown glass. While free-blown techniques allow for larger, more expressive forms, mold-blowing a single, seamless glass volume at this scale is a rare and technically demanding feat. The design required meticulous planning, customized molds, and highly skilled craftsmanship. What makes Totem particularly ambitious is that the upper slot for the tray is also formed within the mold itself—no secondary assembly, no adhesives, just pure form and mastery of process.
This approach pushes the material to its limits. The result is not only a monolithic silhouette but also a continuous surface that enhances the purity and clarity of the glass. The challenge wasn’t only about blowing the form, but about anticipating how the molten material would behave, settle, and stabilize—bridging design foresight with deep material knowledge.
Function Meets Ritual in This Unique Glass Side Table
The vertical structure of Totem draws inspiration from Polynesian ritual totems—objects that combine symbolism, storytelling, and presence. Similarly, this glass side table is conceived to carry a presence beyond its function. It stands as a contemporary totem in the domestic space—a visual anchor and a vessel for everyday use.
The stainless steel tray that sits neatly into the upper cavity serves multiple roles. It can be used as a serving tray, a cover that conceals the contents inside, or simply a reflective surface that complements the transparency of the glass. The interaction it invites—lifting, placing, hiding, revealing—adds a performative dimension to its usage. Totem encourages ritual through function.
Sustainable Design in a Glass Side Table
Glass naturally aligns with sustainability goals—it is endlessly recyclable, chemically inert, and highly durable. In Totem, its use is not incidental but central to the concept. Instead of combining multiple materials with complex finishes, the monomaterial approach ensures long life and easy maintenance. The use of stainless steel for the tray further complements this principle—offering functionality without compromising recyclability.
Totem is a quiet advocate for conscious design. It does not claim sustainability through trends, but through integrity—choosing materials, processes, and forms that inherently respect the lifespan of the object.
A Sensory Experience With Lasting Presence
Totem also serves as an exploration of emotional design—how objects can evoke memory, ritual, and even reverence through material and form. The tactile experience of touching smooth glass, the quiet sound of placing the tray, or the subtle play of light refracted through the curved surface all contribute to a richer, multisensory engagement. In a world increasingly driven by digital experiences, Totem reclaims the physical, inviting users to slow down and connect with objects in a more intentional way.
A Glass Side Table That Commands Space
More than just a functional item, Totem acts as a sculptural centerpiece. Its form is clean but expressive, minimalist yet emotional. In residential settings, it adds character without overwhelming. In commercial interiors, it sparks curiosity and invites interaction. Its transparent form blends into space, while its presence remains assertive—creating an elegant paradox of visibility and weight.
Totem ultimately bridges the gap between object and experience, between the designer’s challenge and the user’s encounter. It reflects a design philosophy rooted in curiosity, craftsmanship, and care—a vision where form, function, and sustainability align to create something truly enduring.
Want to see the sketches and production process? View full project on Behance