Take a look at this new project from designer Aldo Bakker; a sculptural, organically shaped side table that is intended as an antidote to our present society's collectively imagined lack of time.

Through an intensive process, the design is shaped and finished through the accumulation of layers, directed by an ancient Oriental technique. 

"My designs are an attempt to demand slowness and awareness, time and attention." says Bakker of his approach. 

"I achieve the ‘everlastingness’ of the object by applying Japanese ‘Urushi’ varnish. This varnish is completely naturally extracted from the Urushi tree and can be applied to the body almost directly. Urushi is applied in 60 layers, of which roughly 30 are for varnishing and the other 30 for polishing. The finish has an elusive, heavenly quality. No traces, a great depth and an almost unreal result".

Bakker's side table is (understandably, given the amount of labour involved) available in a limited edition of just seven pieces.

Precious, enduring, rooted in history, and yet timeless in scope; M.E. likes this meticulous attention to detail which is a world away from 'fashion' and disposability...