The Saarinen Low Tables form part of the Pedestal Collection by Eero Saarinen, introduced in 1958, revolutionised furniture design by eliminating the traditional “slum of legs” found beneath tables and chairs. This collection includes elegantly designed coffee, side, and dining tables, each bearing the Knoll logo and Saarinen’s signature on the underside.
Eero Saarinen’s commitment to transforming the furniture landscape led to the creation of the iconic Pedestal Collection in 1958. Disturbed by the “ugly, confusing, unrestful world” of clustered table and chair legs, Saarinen embarked on a five-year design investigation that culminated in a series of tables that stand on a single, sculpted pedestal, offering clean lines and a streamlined silhouette.
The collection features a variety of tables, including coffee, side, and dining options, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The Knoll logo, a mark of authenticity and quality, is prominently displayed on the underside of the base. Additionally, a nameplate featuring the KnollStudio logo, along with Eero Saarinen’s signature, adorns the underside of the tabletop or the top support plate, affirming the design’s heritage and authenticity.
Saarinen’s approach involved extensive preliminary sketches followed by detailed ¼ scale models, set up in a scaled model room akin to a dollhouse, to ensure the furniture not only fit spatially but also resonated aesthetically with modern interiors. This methodical process is reflected in the timeless appeal and functional elegance of the Pedestal Collection, which continues to be a favoured choice for those seeking furniture that combines form with function in a truly innovative manner.
ABOUT KNOLL – A Legacy of Modern Design
Knoll embodies a belief in the power of modern design—a philosophy that has guided the brand for over 80 years. Rooted in the Bauhaus design principle that modern furniture should complement architectural space rather than compete, Knoll has consistently upheld this ideal, creating environments where form and function coexist harmoniously.
Founded by Hans and Florence Knoll, the company draws inspiration from the innovative spirit of the Bauhaus School and the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Their vision of a new kind of furniture and workplace design, where craftsmanship and technology blend seamlessly, continues to shape Knoll’s values and informs every piece produced today.
For more than eight decades, Knoll has collaborated with pioneering modernists and bold contemporary designers, pushing the boundaries of design. Partnerships, from Florence Knoll’s timeless works to the innovative creations of Antenna Design, Don Chadwick, and David Adjaye, have defined the brand’s legacy and will continue to shape its future.
Knoll is more than just furniture; it is about creating connections—between people and their work, their lives, and their world. Recognised globally since 1938, Knoll’s workplace and residential furnishings are designed to inspire, adapt, and endure. The company’s commitment to modern design, deep understanding of the evolving workplace, and dedication to sustainability have culminated in a unique portfolio of products that respond to the changing needs of its customers.
This is Knoll’s story—a story of design that not only stands the test of time but also continues to lead the way forward.