Modern living room with Liam de la Bedoyere's nudge table, sofa, books, and a large window view.

Liam de la Bedoyere’s Ingenious Nudge Table: A Lesson in Functional Minimalism

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Written by John Oliver

2026-09-21

Most side tables fail us. We intend to keep them tidy, yet they inevitably become magnets for disorder. The Nudge Side Table by Liam de la Bedoyere, of Liam de la Bedoyere (boredeye design), offers a clever solution. This isn’t just furniture; it’s a functional sculpture.

An Innovative Approach to Design

The Nudge Side Table’s defining feature is its storage element—the structure itself acts as storage. It consists of a column made from stacked plywood discs, culminating in two offset circular platforms. This alignment creates a thin horizontal slot perfectly sized for a book. There are no conventional drawers or shelves; instead, a deliberate nudge creates utility.

Close-up of minimalist wooden table with small decorative objects.

Plywood As a Statement, Not a Compromise

Plywood makes a striking statement. Each visible layer wraps around the cylinder, resembling the growth rings on a tree. The texture is warm, resembling geological strata, with natural pine patterns accentuating the platforms’ surfaces. From above, the overlapping circles evoke a precisely drawn Venn diagram.

The wooden texture and minimalist design bring to mind Sebastian Bergne’s Aroma Pan, which similarly revolutionizes with a simple lid design.

A light wooden table in a modern, minimalistic dining room setting.
Designer adjusts components of a multifunctional wooden table.

Balanced Proportions and Functionality

The Nudge Table feels substantial yet elegant. The offset platforms provide utility at the ideal height next to seating. A book fits snugly in the slot, its colorful spine adding a splash of brightness against the natural wood—a design decision that emphasizes letting the table’s contents provide visual interest.

Detail of the table, highlighting its clean lines and functional design.

Simplicity Meets Usability with the Designer

De la Bedoyere designed the Nudge Table with a minimalist ethos. The absence of hardware, shelves, or additional adornments emphasizes simplicity. The table’s usability shines through its clear structure, making its purpose immediately understandable—a challenging accomplishment.

Nudge table centered in a spacious, modern apartment living area.

Consistency in Design Philosophy

He continues to explore minimalist solutions. His previous creation, the Notch table, introduced vertical storage within solid wooden legs. The Nudge features a different approach—horizontal stacking. Both pieces prioritize elemental design and functional beauty.

For more minimalist yet functional design, explore Changho Lee’s KNOB Tray, showcasing simplicity in everyday desk accessories.

Person rearranges books and decor on the versatile table.

Redefining the Side Table

Side tables often receive little thought in interior design. However, the Nudge Side Table challenges this notion, arguing for thoughtful craftsmanship in the spaces where we spend most of our time. Sometimes, a subtle shift—a mere nudge—can transform an everyday object into something exceptional.

Artist assembling parts of an innovative, functional wooden table.
Detail showing table's assembly with screws and simple tools.

Source: yankodesign.com

Frequently asked questions

What is special about the Nudge Side Table?

The Nudge Side Table’s defining feature is its structure that acts as storage. It consists of stacked plywood discs with two offset circular platforms, creating a thin horizontal slot perfectly sized for a book.

How does plywood contribute to the Nudge Table’s design?

Plywood makes a striking statement as each visible layer wraps around the cylinder, resembling growth rings on a tree. The natural pine patterns and the overlapping circles evoke a precisely drawn Venn diagram.

What is Liam de la Bedoyere’s design philosophy?

Liam de la Bedoyere designed the Nudge Table with a minimalist ethos, emphasizing simplicity by avoiding hardware or additional adornments. His design philosophy focuses on elemental design and functional beauty.