The Tree Heart

When we take down the tree to make furniture, the furniture can still be another ‘tree’ in your living space.

‘The Tree Heart’ is a round-shaped coffee table. The table top has a gentle curve, which leads into a slightly sunken-in table leg — highlighting a natural circumstance. The shape of the coffee table imitates a stump outdoors, and my goal was to bring the feeling of nature indoors, as if to replant the tree.

By bringing organic forms into the living space, ‘The Tree Heart’ encourages a deeper connection with the natural world, and a switch in perspective about the concept of manmade objects.

In our traditional perception, cutting down a tree to create furniture signifies the end of its life, a transformation from nature to a functional, manmade object. However, by reimagining this process, the tree is not lost but reborn within the home. A stump, once seen as a remnant, transformed into a symbol of renewal—a tree heart, representing the nature spirit and also, ourselves.

There are many ways to interact with this furniture and no specific identification of its function. It could be used as a coffee table, but also as a stool, or even an unexpected means of turning a house into a home—where children might find joy in crawling beneath its arch.

In material selection, I sought to highlight the beauty of the material to its fullest. This piece is crafted from curly cherry, a wood known for its subtle shimmering texture. Up close, its natural luster reflects the light. This luminous quality creates a soft halo which reminiscent of sunlight on water.

The tabletop was composed of four carefully selected wooden boards. Each leg was created by two boards.I carefully chose each board, ensuring that the wood grain blended in alignment throughout the piece, highlighting the wood’s natural luster.

I hope 'The Tree Heart' can inspire a deep connection to nature and your heart, and bring back the relaxing memories of sitting under your favorite tree.