‎This “Fanette” extendable dining table is among the most innovative and distinctive table designs of the French designer duo, Guillerme et Chambron and their company, Votre Maison. The true genius of the duo’s present model is how the multifunctional structure manages to be innovative, functional, and as always, visually arresting.

With a rectangular top and geometric body in the duo’s preferred, signature light oak, this model was designed and made to look good and function just as well as a side or dining table. The design shows an organic approach and the duo’s unique visions in the decorative and functional details. Compared to the duo’s other models, this table model is more pared down, relying mostly on its decorative legs. The structure is composed of three legs, one sliding that supports the top when extended. Thanks to the skilfully engineered system, the length of the top can be almost doubled, making this model a truly versatile and functional piece. Whether used as a side or dining table, the design remains stylish and eye-catching thanks to the unique shape of the legs. Unlike in most mid-century models, ornamentation was an important part of the duo’s creations, and while apparent, they were never overwhelming. This balance kept the pieces’ elegance, like in the case of this dining table with its sharply angled, hollow legs. The top’s wooden parts are arranged so that the oak’s pattern and grain create a decorative element in themselves, adding to the visually outstanding elements.

The French duo’s multifunctional tables in particular show how aesthetical design and functionality were of equal importance to the designers. This “Fanette” dining table is undoubtedly an emblematic model of post-war French decorative arts and design with a distinctive appearance and multifunctionality.

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SOLD

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Condition:

In good vintage condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Some small marks and scratches on the oak. There is a visible repair on the underside of the tabletop.

Dimensions:

39.37 in W (without extension) x 27.55 in D x 28.74 in H

100 cm W (without extension) x 70 cm D x 73 cm H

About the Designers:

Robert Guillerme graduated in 1934 from the École Boulle where he excelled in architecture and furniture design. After the Second World War he moved to Lille, in the north of France, where he decorated homes and designed furniture for the well regarded Rogier workshops.

In 1948, Guillerme was joined by his long-time friend, decorator Jacques Chambron in Lille. The following year Guillerme and Chambron met master cabinetmaker Émile Dariosecq, owner of a woodworking shop and the company Votre Maison was born. Together, they defined and imposed a new furniture concept. Thanks to their distinctive creativity, originality, and quality, the Votre Maison quickly became well-known.

The Votre Maison marked the history of French design. Guillerme drew the furniture designs while Chambron played the part of salesman, welcoming and advising clients. The power duo was complemented by Dariosecq, whose workshop took charge of the manufacturing. Together, they defined new furnishings concepts. Well-crafted chair back, polished wood and thick cushions make the reputation of their armchairs and sofas. Votre Maison continued to produce furniture right into the 20th century, with Jacques’s son Hervé Chambron, a designer and graduate of the École Boulle, having taken the over in 1983. ~H.