Design Build: Kiva Work Surface by Mitchell Harris at Coroflot.com

Design Build: Kiva Work Surface

Design Build: Kiva Work Surface from Mitchell Harris

Design Build: Kiva Work Surface

The kiva is a circular room, the walls of which are entirely whiteboard. While great for the generation of ideas, the kiva lacks a horizontal work surface that could greatly improve its use a collaborative space.

(Credit for being an awesome partner goes to Sara Lane)

An 8 week process involving ideation, sketching, prototyping, interviews, iteration, technical drawing, cutting, glueing, milling, sanding, screwing, improvising, and no short amount of luck. All of it culminating into one, freestanding, folding table

Every space has its object, and every object has its space; The curve on the back of the desk is designed to match the curvature of the wall. The wood was also matched to existing cabinetry in the kiva. While up against the wall, the desk creates an intimate space for one or two people to work.

When away from the wall, chairs can be pulled in from either side of the table, allowing it to seat more people.

Reinforcing the notion of collaborative space; When pulled away from the kiva wall, the table can sit up to four people comfortably.

The table folds out of the way when not in use. We wanted to be sure not to restrict the use of the white board with our design. Since, after all, the 360 degree whiteboard is the main feature of the Kiva space.

When folded, the table serves also as a small display shelf on which to place work during pin up. (note: as one user pointed out in an interview; it also makes a nice place to set your drink when using the white board!)

The use of Special cabinet-style hinges allowed us to keep a clean profile when closed, as well as when open.

The rotating legs that support the table actuate via recessed soss hinges embedded inside milled-out slots. This keeps the hardware hidden from sight, maintaining the clean, simple exterior aesthetic.