Limited Edition Vagabond Tables by Maria Scarpulla.

Maria Scarpulla’s collection of limited edition low tables for Atelier Ecru blends the lustrous hues of her Italian upbringing with pared-down Belgian minimalism. With work is rooted in a universal language of form and freedom, Maria Scarpulla has been working with her partner, Jori Hernalsteen since 2019, shaping and producing design pieces and functional objects that sparkle conversations in colour and form.

Scarpulla created 12 low tables, combining different coloured glass tops with nickel frames. Each of the tables has a unique colour combination, all produced by hand in Belgium. It’s the result of intensive two-year research in colour, form and material and a testament to a deep understanding of how these can impact our moods.

The Vagabond tables, as the collection is called, are a family of tables that embrace a number of apparent contradictions: humble and bold; playful and serious; cold and warm. Their purpose as both artistic and functional objects is an invitation to the owner to enter into a dialogue.

The combination of the coloured glass tops with the nickel frames results in a surprisingly contemporary and elegant feel. Nickel has a nice warm light golden hue, contrasting with the sleek and graphic shape the table. It’s also very corrosion resistant and gets a natural patina over time.

“As designers, we find it important to enter into a conversation with our objects. By combining certain colours, seeking out contrasts or experimenting with form, we are looking for exciting dialogues. When designing, we try to question the object’s obvious functionality beyond its trivial use. A table, for example, is multi-functional. We also work with local craftsmen and try to emphasise the traditional,” explains Maria.

The designer’s poetic creations are an expression of their love of life and timeless beauty, creating objects that are minimal in shape, daring in colour and surprising in the material. The minimalist architectural lines and harmonic proportions are translated into scented colour fields, providing a strong implementation of modern yet timeless design.

[Images courtesy of Maria Scarpulla. Photography by Eefje De Coninck & Senne Van Der Ven.]