A particularly good example of the Model 312 extending dining table, designed by Peter Hvidt and Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen in 1955 and produced in Denmark by Søborg Møbelfabrik.

Constructed in teak, the table has a beautifully restrained form, with a rectangular top supported on four slender, gently tapered legs. The warmth of the timber is contrasted by the dark patinated brass diagonal braces beneath the table, giving the otherwise simple structure a particularly light and architectural appearance.

One of the most successful aspects of the design is its ingenious draw-leaf extension system. When closed, the table measures a relatively compact 140 cm in width. Two large extension leaves are stored directly beneath the central top and can be drawn out independently from either end, extending the table to an impressive 240 cm when fully open. Unlike an extending table with separate leaves, everything remains permanently incorporated within the structure of the table.

The mechanism is remarkably practical. The table gains an additional metre in length when fully extended while retaining the simplicity and balance of the original design. It works equally well as a relatively compact everyday dining table or, with both leaves extended, as a considerably larger table for entertaining.

The table retains its circular Søborg manufacturer's ink stamp, incorporating the company's castle and Viking ship device, with “Made in Denmark” stamped beneath.

The table has been professionally cleaned, followed by several careful applications of Danish oil and a final wax finish. This has brought out the warmth and grain of the teak while retaining the character and gentle signs of age acquired through use.

There is a subtle difference in colour between the central section of the top and the two extension leaves. The central section is very slightly lighter, consistent with having remained exposed and received considerably more use during the table's life, while the extension leaves have spent much of their time protected beneath the main top. We particularly like this gentle variation, which gives a clear indication of how the table has been used without detracting from its overall appearance.

The table remains in very good vintage condition, and both draw-leaf extensions open and close smoothly and operate exactly as they should. The teak has a warm, attractive colour throughout, with minor marks and variations consistent with age and use.

The Model 312 is an excellent example of Hvidt and Mølgaard-Nielsen's approach to Danish furniture design, combining a highly practical mechanism with an elegant and economical structure. At 140 cm when closed and 240 cm fully extended, it is particularly versatile and remains as practical today as when it was designed.

Viewing is warmly welcomed at our West London showroom.

High-resolution photographs, detailed condition reports and video inspections are available upon request.

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Please contact us for further information or to arrange a private viewing.