Turner Chair Side Table A History and Design Guide - Alicia Pescott

Turner Chair Side Table A History and Design Guide

Turner Chair Side Table History

Turner chair side table
The Turner chair side table, a staple in many homes, boasts a rich history that intertwines with evolving design trends and the changing needs of homeowners. Understanding its origins and evolution provides insight into the table’s enduring popularity and its place in design history.

Design Inspiration

The Turner chair side table’s design draws inspiration from the mid-century modern aesthetic, characterized by clean lines, functional simplicity, and a focus on materials like wood and metal. This design movement, which emerged in the 1930s and gained momentum in the 1950s, emphasized functionality and affordability over ornate embellishments. The Turner chair side table, with its simple form and practical use, embodies these principles.

Notable Designers and Manufacturers

Several notable designers and manufacturers have contributed to the evolution of the Turner chair side table.

  • Eero Saarinen, a prominent figure in mid-century modern design, created the iconic “Tulip” table, which influenced the design of many side tables, including the Turner. Saarinen’s emphasis on clean lines and minimalist aesthetics is evident in the Turner chair side table’s design.
  • Charles and Ray Eames, another renowned design duo, also played a significant role in shaping the mid-century modern movement. Their work, characterized by its focus on functionality and innovative use of materials, influenced the development of side tables with simple, practical designs. The Turner chair side table’s use of wood and its focus on functionality can be traced back to the Eameses’ design principles.
  • Knoll, a leading furniture manufacturer, has been a prominent force in the production and distribution of mid-century modern furniture. The company has produced several iconic side tables, including the Turner chair side table, which embodies the clean lines and functionality associated with the mid-century modern style.

Turner Chair Side Table Design Features

Turner chair side table
The Turner chair side table, a timeless design classic, boasts a distinct aesthetic that has captivated furniture enthusiasts for generations. Its sleek lines, minimalist form, and versatility make it a perfect complement to various interior styles.

Materials Used in Construction

The materials used in constructing a Turner chair side table are crucial in defining its durability, aesthetic appeal, and overall character.

  • Wood: The most common material used is wood, often chosen for its natural beauty, strength, and workability. Popular wood species include oak, walnut, cherry, mahogany, and maple, each contributing a unique grain pattern and color.
  • Metal: Metal accents, such as brass or chrome, are often incorporated into the design to add a touch of sophistication and contrast to the wood. These accents can be found in the table’s legs, hardware, or even the tabletop itself.
  • Glass: For a more contemporary look, some Turner chair side tables feature glass tops, offering a sleek and transparent aesthetic. This option allows the underlying wood or metal base to be showcased, creating a visually striking effect.

Dimensions and Proportions

The dimensions and proportions of a Turner chair side table are carefully considered to ensure functionality and visual harmony.

  • Height: Turner chair side tables typically range in height from 20 to 28 inches, ensuring easy accessibility and a comfortable reach from a seated position.
  • Width and Depth: The width and depth of the table vary depending on its intended use and the overall design. A typical Turner chair side table might measure 18 to 24 inches in width and 12 to 16 inches in depth, providing ample space for a lamp, book, or other personal items.
  • Shape: Turner chair side tables are often designed with a square or rectangular shape, but circular or oval variations exist. The choice of shape depends on the desired aesthetic and the available space.

Turner Chair Side Table in Contemporary Design

Turner chair side table
The Turner chair side table, with its elegant curves and timeless appeal, has transcended its original design era and found a renewed place in contemporary interiors. Designers have embraced its classic silhouette while infusing it with modern sensibilities, resulting in fresh interpretations that seamlessly blend tradition with innovation.

Contemporary Adaptations and Innovations, Turner chair side table

Contemporary adaptations of the Turner chair side table often involve reinterpreting its design elements to align with modern aesthetics. This includes exploring new materials, incorporating minimalist lines, and experimenting with unconventional forms.

  • Material Innovations: While the original Turner chair side table was typically crafted from wood, contemporary designs often embrace a wider range of materials, such as metal, glass, and even recycled materials. This allows for a greater diversity of textures, finishes, and color palettes, reflecting the versatility of modern design.
  • Minimalist Aesthetics: Contemporary interpretations often prioritize simplicity and clean lines, stripping away any unnecessary ornamentation. This minimalist approach emphasizes the table’s functional form and creates a sense of airy elegance.
  • Unconventional Forms: Modern designers have explored unconventional forms and geometries, pushing the boundaries of the traditional Turner chair side table. This might involve creating asymmetric shapes, incorporating geometric patterns, or experimenting with unexpected angles.

A Modern Table Design Concept

Imagine a Turner chair side table reimagined for the contemporary home. This concept envisions a sleek, minimalist design with a focus on functionality and versatility. The table’s base could be crafted from a single piece of solid metal, its smooth curves echoing the original design while showcasing the beauty of the material. The tabletop could be made from a durable, yet lightweight, composite material, offering a contrasting texture and a clean, minimalist aesthetic. This design would be available in a range of finishes, allowing for customization to suit any interior style.

“The Turner chair side table, reimagined for the contemporary home, becomes a statement piece that seamlessly blends functionality with modern aesthetics.”

Turner Chair Side Table Market and Availability

The Turner chair side table, with its sleek design and practical functionality, has garnered significant popularity in the furniture market. Its availability and pricing are crucial considerations for potential buyers.

Retailers and Online Platforms

The Turner chair side table is widely available through various retailers and online platforms. Here are some prominent examples:

  • Furniture Stores: Popular furniture stores like IKEA, West Elm, and Crate & Barrel often feature the Turner chair side table in their collections.
  • Online Marketplaces: Amazon, Wayfair, and Overstock are major online marketplaces where you can find a wide range of Turner chair side table models.
  • Specialty Retailers: Stores specializing in contemporary furniture or Scandinavian design often carry the Turner chair side table.

Price Range and Influencing Factors

The price of a Turner chair side table can vary significantly depending on several factors:

  • Materials: Tables made from high-quality materials like solid wood or metal tend to be more expensive than those made from less expensive materials.
  • Size and Dimensions: Larger or more intricate designs usually come with a higher price tag.
  • Brand and Origin: Well-known brands or tables imported from countries with higher manufacturing costs may be priced higher.
  • Retailer Markup: Different retailers may have varying markups on the Turner chair side table.

Price Comparison of Turner Chair Side Table Models

The following table provides an overview of different Turner chair side table models, their features, and estimated price ranges:

Model Features Estimated Price Turner Chair Side Table (Walnut) Solid walnut wood construction, sleek design, two shelves $250 – $350 Turner Chair Side Table (White Oak) Solid white oak wood construction, minimalist design, single shelf $200 – $300 Turner Chair Side Table (Black Metal) Black metal frame, durable construction, two shelves $150 – $250 Turner Chair Side Table (White Lacquer) White lacquer finish, modern design, single shelf $180 – $280

The Turner chair side table, with its elegant curves and timeless design, is a perfect complement to any living room. For a similar aesthetic outdoors, consider a lawn chair side table , which offers the same practicality and charm but with weather-resistant materials.

Whether indoors or out, a well-chosen side table can transform a space into a haven of comfort and style.

The Turner chair side table is a timeless piece, offering both elegance and practicality. Its compact design makes it ideal for smaller spaces, and its sturdy construction ensures years of use. If you’re looking for a space-saving solution for a study, consider a folding study table and chair , which can be easily tucked away when not in use.

The Turner chair side table complements such a setup perfectly, providing a convenient surface for a lamp or a cup of coffee while you work.

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