If the Ping Table isn't a sign that play in the workplace is here to stay, then I don't know what is. Dutch designer Richard Hutten created this playful conference table for furniture brand Lande out of beech wood. The table contains two drawers that are used to hold the paddles, balls and detachable net.
The Ping Table isn't the first dual-purpose ping pong meant for business and play. However, it is certainly one of the classiest. It can seat up to ten people and its tabletop is divided into four squares. The squares' first purpose is to set the boundaries for the game, but they can also be used to pair teams off during meetings or conference calls. Here's hoping more designers begin to integrate play into their office furniture like Hutten did with the Ping Table.
Playful Conference Tables
The Ping Table Lets You Hold Meetings Over Games of Ping Pong
Trend Themes
1. Playful Office Furniture - There is a growing trend of incorporating play into office furniture design to promote creativity and collaboration.
2. Dual-purpose Products - Combining work and play in a single product is gaining popularity, creating opportunities for new and innovative designs.
3. Multifunctional Meeting Spaces - Meeting and conference spaces that serve multiple purposes, such as gaming and collaboration, are becoming more popular.
Industry Implications
1. Office Furniture - The office furniture industry can capitalize on the need for more creative and playful design elements in the workplace.
2. Gaming - As the gaming industry continues to grow, there is an opportunity to create more dual-purpose products that combine gaming and other activities, like meetings.
3. Collaboration Tools - Companies that make collaboration tools, such as conferencing software and virtual whiteboards, can benefit from the growing demand for multifunctional meeting spaces.