Moooi Chess Table

The Moooi Chess Table by Front is basically what happens when someone decides that regular side tables are boring and you should be able to challenge your guests to a game whenever the mood strikes. This Swedish design group took the classic chessboard pattern and turned it into actual furniture - 64 alternating black and white squares in high-gloss lacquer that look fantastic even when nobody's playing. At about 16 inches square and just under 2 feet tall, it's the perfect size to tuck next to a chair or sofa, but honestly, once people see it, they usually want to grab some chess pieces and start a match. The solid wood construction with steel frame means it can handle both daily use as a regular table and the occasional aggressive chess move when someone's feeling competitive.

What's clever about this design is how it works equally well whether you're actually into chess or just love the visual impact of that bold geometric pattern. The high-gloss finish makes those black and white squares really pop, and there's something satisfying about having a piece of furniture that's both beautiful and fully functional for its intended game. At about 29 pounds, it's substantial enough to feel quality but still easy to move around if you want to relocate the action. The 2-inch thick top can handle coffee cups, books, or whatever else you need from a side table, but having the option to clear it off and play a quick game adds this whole other dimension to your space.

Moooi has always had this talent for working with designers who see everyday objects as opportunities to add unexpected functionality and personality to people's homes. Front, the Swedish design collective behind this table, is known for creating pieces that tell stories and challenge assumptions about what furniture should do. Marcel Wanders and the Moooi team clearly saw something special in this approach - instead of just making another decorative side table, why not create something that brings people together over a classic game? It's exactly the kind of thoughtful design that makes spaces more interesting and gives you a reason to actually use and enjoy your furniture rather than just looking at it.