Vadodara: With homes in cites and workplaces shrinking, a team of professors and students from Maharaja Sayajirao University have designed a multifunctional table that adapts to several everyday needs while occupying minimal space.
The design has been registered with the Patent Office of India. The design team — Dr Sarjoo Patel, Shruti Chaudhari, Jahnavi Luhar, Dr Khyati Trivedi, Dr Vashima Veerkumar, Gautam Suthar and Archana Pillai — developed a table that can seamlessly transform from a coffee table into a study desk or a dining table, making it suitable for small homes and flexible commercial spaces.
Built with 19mm plywood with a glossy white laminate finish, the table combines durability with a minimalist aesthetic. A key feature is a pair of foldable stools that slide under it, providing seats without taking up space. The unit is mounted on smooth wheels for easy mobility and has a mechanism to adjust its height to suit varied functions.
The table also has concealed storage compartments, a built-in switchboard with multiple sockets and an adjustable lamp . Adding a cultural dimension, the tabletop incorporates traditional ajrakh motifs, blending contemporary functionality with Gujarat's textile heritage.
Designers said the project reflects a user-centric approach focused on flexibility, ergonomics and efficient use of space, offering a practical solution for urban living environments.