ABOUT THE DESIGN
The design of the Combo side table emerges from a deep dialogue between structure, symbolism and material presence. Its double-layer joint system is not simply a technical solution but an architectural language—one that allows the piece to expand, separate and transform without losing coherence. The side panels reveal a subtle fish-symbol motif, an intentional nod to Carlo Scarpa’s mastery of detail and spatial rhythm. Rather than functioning as decoration, this gesture introduces a layer of cultural memory, linking contemporary form to the lineage of refined architectural craftsmanship.
Pearwood and lacquer, in their contrasting tonalities, define the emotional landscape of the piece. The dark, polished planes create a sense of depth and stillness, while the warmer wooden surfaces introduce grounding and warmth. Through meticulous hand-finishing, light moves gently across the table, exposing the artisanal asian design embedded in each edge and junction.
COMBO MODULAR SIDE TABLE
About the brand
ARTEMPO
Chris Tang is a talented product designer whose passion for home furnishings was sparked at an early age, inspired by his father, who founded a furniture studio over 20 years ago. Growing up surrounded by creative ideas and innovative approaches to furniture and product design, Chris developed a deep appreciation for the field.
Later, he pursued his studies in architecture at the University of the Arts London, where he immersed himself in a multicultural environment that shaped his unique approach to design. His creative journey reflects the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures, combining the structured, conceptual learning from the West with the refined Eastern aesthetic, a hallmark of his work at Artempo.
Artempo itself embodies this vision, representing the "art of time" — a reflection on how pure art can become overshadowed by accumulated objects over time. Artempo seeks to reclaim eternal objects within space and time, capturing the essence of pausing external expansion and focusing on introspection.
Chris's works are deeply rooted in the beauty of the Orient and the legacy of time, carrying forward the lacquer craftsmanship tradition that has been passed down through his family for over two decades. Each piece conveys an oriental temperament infused with a western expression, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of these cultural influences.