Assistant Professor Tom Bessai and Instructor Maria Denegri, of Toronto firm Denegri Bessai, won a national competition to design a picnic table-inspired artwork (pictured above) created with the involvement of the public. The winning entry, titled Maple-Synthesis, is a table whose design is loosely based on the pattern of a maple leaf, seen from above. The base is made of a pre-fabricated steel frame and the top is made from three layers of CNC cut ¾” plywood that is marked with a pattern on each layer, creating a topography of cells. Benches are bolted to the frame.

The design of the table allows for multiple seating configurations and uses. Unlike a more traditional table, it accommodates a large family or several smaller groupings. The table allows users to sit inwards or outwards facing the Ottawa River.

From 10am – 5 pm on July 1^st at Jacques Cartier Park in Gatineau, Quebec, members of the public will fill the pattern of over 200 cells (one cell each) with an aggregate of finely crushed rock, in red and white and other colours, creating patterns that express their individual perspective. The tabletops will then be sealed into a surface suitable for picnicking and game playing.

The table will be part of a Canadian Heritage public art project that will see the designs of several of Canada’s most exciting artist/designers come to life. The picnic-table inspired works will be installed throughout the National Capital Region until September 2^nd. The competition’s theme, “1+1=Us” reflects the history, memory and multiple identities that shape Canada. The picnic table concept allows for places of sharing, discussion and entertainment.

ABOUT DENEGRI BESSAI STUDIO

Established in 2007 by partners Tom Bessai and Maria Denegri. Work from the studio has won numerous design awards, and has appeared in publications including Toronto Life, the Globe and Mail, Canadian Architect, Azure and Plan Magazine. Projects in the studio are carefully developed through an iterative design process that combines experimental research with engaged client consultation. Extensive material testing and prototyping is a constant factor in the design work of the studio and is accomplished through the use of state-of-the art computation and fabrication techniques. This experimental practice model is supported and enhanced through teaching and research at the Daniels Faculty of Architecture at the University of Toronto alongside allied partners in academia and industry.