The ‘CH004’ nesting tables – versatile space-saving design from Carl Hansen & Søn

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I’ve always considered nesting tables to be a bit old-fashioned – the kind of thing my grandparents had in their living rooms, normally sporting overly ornate legs and some kind of decorative leather top. They’ve definitely dropped out of popularity in recent decades, but as our homes become increasingly compact – and the need for multifunctional, space-saving furniture grows – they’re making a comeback. And with that in mind, Carl Hansen & Søn has launched a beautifully minimalist version that puts paid to any lingering misconceptions.

Originally presented in 1952 but only now going into full production, the ‘CH004’ nesting tables are the work of legendary Danish designer Hans J. Wegner. He’s most famous for his chairs, and the 500+ that he created during his lifetime include icons such as the ‘Wishbone’ and ‘Shell’ chairs for Carl Hansen & Søn. But that’s not all he designed, and the ‘CH004’ tables show the same considered simplicity and high-quality craftsmanship as his better-known masterpieces.

Characterised by their lightweight, organic expression, the nesting tables consist of three different sizes that slot together perfectly. The individual parts have been scaled in proportion to each table, resulting in a harmonious and balanced look. There are some signature Wegner details, too, including rounded and gently tapered legs, precise mortise joints, and subtle curves on the front and rear support bars.

The ‘CH004’ tables work brilliantly by the side of a sofa or armchair, or arranged as a multi-tier coffee table in the centre of a sitting area. I tried them out in my own living room and was very impressed by the balance of form and function. They fitted seamlessly with the neutral, understated decor and proved to be incredibly useful, providing extra surface space wherever needed and stacking away neatly when not in use. What’s more, they’re lightweight enough to lift and move around with ease, but at the same time very sturdy and stable.

I also tested the tables alongside another Wegner creation – his ‘CH25’ lounge chair, which I’ve used in a cosy reading corner upstairs. Although they weren’t designed specifically for each other, I thought they sat together beautifully, the concave supports on the tables nicely counterbalancing the convex curves of the chair. Carl Hansen & Søn CEO Knud Erik Hansen lists the ‘Wing’ chair, ‘Mama Bear’ chair and ‘CH72’ sofa as other excellent matches for the tables, but to be honest they’re versatile enough to work with almost anything, Wegner or not.

Of course nesting tables don’t have to be used together and can be dotted around the home as needed. I think these make particularly good nightstands, and the differing sizes mean it’s easy to match them to the height of a bed. The smallest one proved to be just right in our snug spare bedroom, and I liked the way its lightweight aesthetic made the space look airier and less cluttered.

So, the ‘CH004’ nesting tables may have been created more than 70 years ago, but they’re far from dated. In fact, they’re exactly the kind of functional, future-proof furniture that today’s homes require – an enduring design that can adapt as our needs and spaces change, and another timeless addition to Carl Hansen & Søn’s collection.

The ‘CH004’ nesting tables are available now, with a choice between oiled oak (shown here), soaped oak, oiled walnut, and a walnut and oak mix. Prices start at €972 / £1,022, and you can find details of Carl Hansen & Søn flagship stores and stockists worldwide here.

All photography by Abi Dare