Question 1

What is a tulip table?

Accepted Answer

A tulip table is a dining table or occasional table of a certain shape. It’s typically characterized by a slender stem-like pedestal base and a round tabletop. Its name is drawn from the name given to chairs that are part of a collection that Finnish-American designer and architect Eero Saarinen created for iconic mid-century furniture manufacturer Knoll during the 1950s.The tables in Saarinen’s acclaimed series were called Pedestal tables, while the chairs were called Tulip chairs, armless or not, owing to their flower bulb-like shape. Today, design lovers everywhere frequently refer to Saarinen's Pedestal tables as tulip tables, and any table that looks like a Pedestal table is generally referred to as a tulip table, whether or not Saarinen had anything to do with it.Find vintage Eero Saarinen tables on 1stDibs.

Question 2

Why is it called a tulip table?

Accepted Answer

The Tulip table is called that because it matches the Tulip chair. With its tapered shape, the seat of the chair resembles a tulip flower. Eero Saarinen designed both the Tulip chair and the Tulip table. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Tulip tables.

Question 3

What era are tulip tables from?

Accepted Answer

Tulip tables are from the mid-century modern era. Finnish-American architect and furniture maker Eero Saarinen created the table in 1956 as part of the Pedestal collection of chairs and stools. The Pedestal table and its accompanying Tulip armchairs and armless chairs comprised cast-aluminum bases (“Tulip” became a common descriptor for all of the furnishings in the collection). Each table, stool and chair was crafted with a single, tapered cylindrical leg that descends to a base that flares into a circle, giving the illusion of being one piece. The series was designed for Knoll Inc. On 1stDibs, find vintage Tulip tables from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 4

Are tulip tables sturdy?

Accepted Answer

With a cast iron or aluminum alloy base, rest assured, the tulip table is indeed sturdy. With its centrally-placed leg, the style of the table was designed to be functional and structurally solid. You’ll find a variety of tulip tables from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

How can I tell if a tulip table is real?

Accepted Answer

Eero Saarinen tulip tables are beloved by interior designers worldwide, and there are some key things to look for to ensure your table is authentic. Examine the base of the chairs and table and confirm they're made from one piece of cast aluminum with no visible seams. Tulip tables have been crafted from various materials over the years, but never plastic. You can also turn the table over to look for a Knoll Inc. tag, though some vintage tables may not have this. On 1stDibs, you'll find a collection of authentic Eero Saarinen tulip furniture from some of the world's top sellers.

Question 6

What chairs work with a Tulip Table?

Accepted Answer

Many chairs can work with a Tulip table. The Tulip armchair, for example, was part of Eero Saarinen’s Pedestal collection of armless chairs, stools, Tulip side tables and more. The series, produced for Knoll, was a mid-century modernist exercise in simplifying, and Tulip chairs, with their curvy contours, match Tulip side tables and Pedestal dining tables very well. However, you can also try other mid-century modern chairs to see what works best in your space. Shop a collection of mid-century modern dining chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What are table lamps used for?

Accepted Answer

Table lamps are often used as a reading light or for task lighting. They can also simply serve as part of a room’s decor, perhaps adding light to an area that doesn’t get any illumination from overhead lights. Shop a collection of table lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is a console table used for?

Accepted Answer

Console tables serve a variety of functions. They can be used as buffets, storage units and display tables. Because they vary in size, you can use them for just about anything.

Question 9

What are bistro tables used for?

Accepted Answer

Bistro tables are small round tables used for serving small meals, like breakfast or afternoon tea. Bistro tables are versatile, and are great for smaller areas such as a porch or back patio. You can shop antique and contemporary bistro tables from a variety of sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What are end tables used for?

Accepted Answer

End tables typically hold lamps, coasters and other items to keep them within easy reach from the sofa or chair they are next to.

Question 11

What is a sideboard table used for?

Accepted Answer

A sideboard table is generally used for storing cutlery, napkins and other dining supplies. Sideboards have much in common with credenzas and buffet tables but they are distinct from both of those other kinds of case pieces. Shop a range of antique and vintage sideboards and other storage furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What was a drum table used for?

Accepted Answer

A drum table, also referred to as a rent table, is a circular table with labeled drawers. It was traditionally used by landlords to keep account of rent money with the labels displaying the days of the weeks. Due to their unique shape, drum tables are a favorite among home decor enthusiasts. Shop a selection of drum tables on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What are side tables used for?

Accepted Answer

Side tables are used next to furniture like beds and couches to provide an accessible place for keeping essential items at hand. In the living room, side tables are often used to display flower arrangements, photos or books as well as to set down a drink. In the bedroom, a side table is typically populated with items like a lamp, bedtime reading material, and a charging device for a phone. Shop a collection of vintage and contemporary side tables from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What were nesting tables used for?

Accepted Answer

Nesting tables typically consist of several different sizes of tables designed to fit underneath one another — they were initially intended to save space in the drawing room. The tables were pulled out as needed and used for playing chess, needlepoint and engaging in other leisurely activities. Shop a collection of nesting tables on 1stDibs from top sellers worldwide.

Question 15

How can you tell a real Saarinen Tulip table?

Accepted Answer

To tell a real Saarinen Tulip table, look under the tabletop. Authentic Saarinen tables will usually feature a label bearing the Knoll Industries name and a metal plaque that features Eero Saarinen's signature. The style of these tags and labels has changed over the years, but you can find pictures of them on the pages of trusted online resources to compare to the markings on your table. Materials can also be useful when authenticating Tulip tables. Authentic tables will have cast aluminum bases. A wood or plastic base is a good indication that the table is a replica, as is a plastic top rather than one made of wood, laminate or natural stone. If you're still unsure about the authenticity of your piece, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can assist you. Find a selection of Eero Saarinen Tulip tables on 1stDibs.

Question 16

Is a tulip table mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Can you use a console table as a desk?

Accepted Answer

Because of their variety of sizes and range in function, console tables can easily work as a desk. Given their size and ease of mobility, a console table can be used in almost any sort of room.

Question 18

Can a library table be used as a desk?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can use a library table as a desk. In fact, many people like the spacious tops found on library tables because they usually have enough room to accommodate a computer and provide additional work space. Find a range of library tables on 1stDibs.

Question 19

What can I use instead of an end table?

Accepted Answer

You can use a number of things in place of an end table. Place a stool, chest, trunk, barrel or crate beside your sofa or chair, or use a bar cart or freestanding tray to rest a lamp and other objects on. If there is a wall nearby, you can even install a floating shelf within arm’s reach. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of living room furniture.

Question 20

What do you call a table that is used for drafting?

Accepted Answer

A table used for drafting can simply be called a drafting table. Other names for drafting tables are artist's table, drawing table and architect's table. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of drafting tables.

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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Used Tulip Table

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