The aesthetic inspiration for the tables is inspired by water lilies in ponds, where leaves floats in the water. Antrei wanted his design to emphasize the core aspects of Maze, such as their playfulness and practicality, while still bringing a touch of elegance to the tables and thereby elevating Maze as a brand. The contrast between style and function are equally balanced and the tables are placed just as well in a smaller apartment as in the lounge space of a fine hotel. Parasol follows the same continuum of Scandinavian design – the industrial look meets a homey atmosphere, and the shapes are cleanly minimalistic yet refined.

To achieve the float-like illusion, the tabletop rests on a single metal leg that firmly upholds and balances the top and bottom part. A difficult challenge, especially for the larger table with a diameter of 90 cm. In close collaboration with the Swedish manufacturer Steel Nova, Antrei and Maze solved the challenge creating complete stability through carefully selected materials, design precision and Steel Nova's long experience in construction.

The name Parasol refers to the appearance and function of a certain type of sunshade, these same features are also repeated in the tables. The large parasol stays upright with one sturdy leg attached to the side and protects what's underneath. Things placed on the lower level of the table are equally protected under the tabletop, but not hidden.

About Antrei Hartikainen

Antrei Hartikainen is a master cabinetmaker and designer from Finland, known for his exquisite works in wood. He has studied woodworking through various degrees and started out as a carpenter, gradually over time becoming a self-taught designer. As a designer Antrei constantly explores the middle ground between functional objects and visual art.

“Through the years I have developed my own strong design idiom, which makes my work clear and distinctive. Sustainability, innovative use of material features, and beauty itself gives the frame for my designs. I often seek inspiration from landscapes shaped by nature and man, from the moments I observe in nature and everyday life, to the scales and details of architecture.” says Antrei. His choice of material is wood, and through honest decisions and thoughtful use of materials, Antrei wants to create long lasting pieces that we can live with for a long time without annual trends affecting the desire to exchange things for new items. Antrei have created the Parasol series for Maze.

The young and talented Finnish designer Antrei Hartikainen has designed a table series for Maze, named Parasol. Antrei has created an elegant, unexpected, and functional collection and two of the sizes will premiere at Stockholm Furniture Fair 2023.

A coffee table in size 90cm in diameter and a smaller one in 50cm in diameter, which can also be used as a side table. Both sizes come in natural- and dark stained oak veneer.

Parasol S

Parasol L

About Antrei Hartikainen