The Prinds table, designed by Oslo-based studio Jenkins & Uhnger in collaboration with Case, is a piece that seamlessly bridges dining and working, tradition and modernity, local origins and global appeal. We sat down with the designers to learn more about how the table came to life, from its beginnings in a neighbourhood café to its place in contemporary homes around the world.
Q: What inspired the design of the Prinds table, and how did you envision it fitting into modern living spaces?
The initial concept was born during our collaboration with Omhu, our sister agency, on the spatial design of Kafeteria August in Oslo’s Tullinløkka neighbourhood in 2022. The café needed to transition throughout the day, from a morning café to a restaurant and finally a bar in the evening.
We designed round tables to complement vintage Artek and Fureka chairs, while also bridging the café’s mix of materials: terrazzo floors, Vitzöe shelves, and modern art on the walls.
Following the success of the project, we worked with Case to evolve the design into something more versatile and commercially viable. The new rectangular version was conceived as both a dining table and a desk, with a flat-pack design and distinctive base proportions that reflect the needs of modern, adaptable living.
“Compact living demands multifunctionality - pieces that can move fluidly between roles.”
– Jenkins & Uhnger
Q: The tabletop is made from high-pressure laminate, a material known for strength and durability. Why did you choose it?
We wanted to create something that was both durable and affordable. High-pressure laminate is ideal for everyday use, whether the table serves as a dining hub or a workspace. Its strength ensures longevity, which is always at the heart of our design philosophy.
Q: How did you approach colours and finishes to make sure the table works across different interior styles?
A key part of the design is its rational use of materials. By not limiting ourselves to a single material, we had the freedom to explore different finishes. For launch, we chose two editions that we believe fit a variety of interiors, pairing easily with anything from classic wooden dining chairs to contemporary task chairs.
Q: The Prinds table works equally well as a dining table or a desk. Was this dual functionality always part of the plan?
Yes, absolutely. The collaboration with Case was guided by the intention to address the needs of compact living, where multifunctionality is essential. From the beginning, we wanted the table to move fluidly between roles, much like it did in its first context at Kafeteria August. Today, that same flexibility translates beautifully into homes in London, Oslo, and New York.
Q: Were there any challenges in designing the Prinds table?
Quite a few. One was balancing aesthetics with durability and affordability, making sure the table was visually appealing while still practical and cost-effective. Another was integrating the flat-pack feature: we spent a lot of time making the base and stretcher both structural and elegant. Finally, finding a size that truly works for both dining and working took experimentation and refinement.
“Furniture should not be disposable or trend-driven, but well-made and adaptable enough to last over time.”
– Jenkins & Uhnger
Q: Compact living is becoming more common worldwide. How do you approach designing for smaller spaces?
We believe furniture should not be disposable or trend-driven. Instead, it should be functional, well-made, and adaptable enough to last over time. For compact living especially, pieces need to be flexible but also emotionally resonant; the kind of objects people form a bond with and carry with them through different phases of life.
Q: What aspect of the Prinds table are you most proud of?
We’re especially proud of successfully translating a custom design for a specific project into a product with a wider, commercial life. This is why we operate two studios, Jenkins & Uhnger for furniture and Omhu for spatial design, so we can cross-pollinate ideas and create pieces with purpose and identity.
We’re also proud that we maintained the core aesthetic while making the table durable, affordable, and flat-pack. Seeing the Prinds table now available internationally, including at the MoMA Design Store in New York, is proof that even from an independent studio in Oslo, it’s possible to design something with truly universal relevance.
You can shop our Prinds table here.
