Transformers

These nifty pieces, perfect for tight spots, have tricks up their sleeves. They double as work stations or snack tables and as innocent-looking, highly presentable furniture.
 

1) Hinged leaves at the ends of the Moooi Two Tops oak table oak table open to reveal laptop-ready desk space with grommets for organizing cords; $5,010 to $5,727, at Haute Living, 222 W. Kinzie St., 312-329-9000; haute-living.com.

 

2) The writing-table part of the 3030 Desk by Hannes Wettstein can be swiveled into several positions. Available in gray oak, dark oak, wenge, and walnut, $4,799, at Orange Skin, 223 W. Erie St., 312-335-1033; orangeskin.com

 

3) Walnut, glass, and chrome Occa coffee table has two panels that swing up and out, perfect for eating on the couch, starting at $999, at BoConcept, 1901 N. Clybourn Ave., 773-388-2900; boconcept.us

 
May - June 2009
  • Beyond Pale »

    A New Buffalo house softens minimalism’s hard edges, drawing inspiration from the local landscape

  • A Summer Place »

    For one family, getting away from it all means arriving somewhere both rustic and refined

  • Lake Effect »

    A vintage tourist cabin finds new life—and love—in the Wisconsin woods

  • Clamtastic! »

    Combine a warm Chicago evening, two popular Food Network hosts, and a few good friends, and what do you get? An East...

  • Simon Says... »
  • Babes in Design Land »

    A child’s room is where grown-up decorators get to tap into their inner kid, while giving junior a chance to show off his or...

  • Modern House on the Prairie »

    In Michigan City, classic ideas find crisp new expression in up-to-the-minute glass and cedar

  • Into the Wood »

    Aaron Pahmier—idealist, entrepreneur—makes his mark with Green Sawn furniture