The Kotatsu Work Table

Designed with an original kotatsu or Japanese low family table in mind, this version by Kaiju Studios is manufactured by Herman Miller and is meant for desk use. Sort of like a working coffee table, a group can comfortably sit around, place cups and work on the lower level and allow pens to slip into the middle depression. $1,470 through Herman Miller Vendors. (Via Wallpaper)

Kaiju Studios designed the Kotatsu Work Table as a relaxed yet functional focal point for collaborative work. A member of Herman Miller's new Intersect Portfolio, the table's inspiration is pulled from the traditional Japanese kotatsu, a low table that families gather around for eating, working, playing and keeping warm. The table's lower height instructively suggests an informal gathering, which is often conducive to collaborative group work. Details such as a large, uninterrupted surface for spreading work out on and a lower shelf for keeping coffee safe from spills cater to the task at hand.

Comments (3)

I've seen this table in person and the construction is very good as expected with Herman Miller products. The beveled edges are yummy. It looks very comfortable, actually, in a home setting, jiving with your utilitarian decor.
Cats seem to like the lower compartments as well :)

The beveled edges is a key detail in the tray area so you can grab your pens, paper clips and/or candy very easily.

Okay, I just have to speak up. I love kotatsus and this just isn't right! The best (and defining) thing about kotatsus is the heating element, which is absent from this one even though they do mention it in their description of a kotatsu.

Kotatsus are low tables which are covered with a thick blanket (between the frame and the table top), and they have a heating element inside at the center. So inside the blanket it is toasty warm! It is awesome.

This table is a stylish expensive low table, but it is not a kotatsu.

I love Herman Miller and most of the work they produce, but this table just doesn't do it for me.
The blonde wood and gray powder coat steel legs reminds me of Ikea. Perhaps seeing it in person would make a difference, but from the online pictures, I'm not impressed.