Ilmari Tapiovaara desk / table

This rare dining or writing table was designed by Ilmari Tapiovaara and produced by Laukaan Puu in Finland during the 1950s. It is a quintessential example of Tapiovaara’s dedication to democratic design, emphasizing honest materials and meticulous Finnish craftsmanship rooted in modernist principles.

The table is constructed entirely from solid pine, featuring a tabletop made of narrow laminated pine planks with visible end grain details at the corners, highlighting both craftsmanship and structural soundness. The rich amber hue of the pine surface is enhanced by a warm patina, and the subtle grain patterns vary naturally across the tabletop, adding depth and character. The wood’s natural imperfections, including knots and growth rings, are intentionally preserved, celebrating the material’s authenticity. The table edges are chamfered with a distinctive joint detail where the leg frame connects to the top, underscoring precision joinery.

Supporting the tabletop are square legs placed flush at the outer corners, with sharply chamfered inner profiles that lighten their visual weight while maintaining a sturdy presence. The overall design is geometrically clear and highly functional, reflecting Tapiovaara’s philosophy of creating high-quality furniture accessible for mass production without sacrificing aesthetic integrity.

The table measures 160 cm wide, 80.5 cm deep, and 72 cm high (approximately 63 x 31.7 x 28.3 inches). Its size suits use as a dining table for four to six people or as a writing or conference desk. The piece is in very good vintage condition with expected surface wear, such as light scratches, consistent with age and use, which add to its character.

Ilmari Tapiovaara (1914–1999) was a prominent figure in Finnish modern design, blending vernacular traditions with industrial manufacturing. He is well known for his collaborations with Artek and Laukaan Puu and his commitment to producing furniture for public institutions and private homes alike. Laukaan Puu was a respected Finnish manufacturer known for high-quality craftsmanship and played a key role in realizing Tapiovaara’s vision during the mid-20th century.

This table stands as a rare and authentic example of Tapiovaara’s democratic design ethos, combining functional utility, natural material beauty, and precise Scandinavian joinery.