The Dog Hut Side Table brings together cozy functionality, modern aesthetics, and advanced manufacturing in one compact design. It offers a dedicated nook for dogs, along with convenient features like a cup holder and a book stand, making it a versatile addition to contemporary living spaces. With its house-like silhouette and integrated utility, the piece is designed to support both comfort and connection, encouraging shared spaces between pets and people.
The concept began in 2023 with a playful plywood prototype that captured attention with its charming form. However, production challenges soon became apparent. The curved geometry and layered construction proved difficult to manufacture efficiently using traditional methods. This led to a shift in direction, focusing on practical side tables that retained visual character while improving build feasibility.
Designer: Liam de la Bedoyere
In 2024, the design was refined with greater attention to user needs. Aesthetics were still important, but now balanced with usability. The table had to serve a functional role in the home, acting as a stable surface for cups and books, while continuing to offer a soft, inviting spot for pets to rest. This phase emphasized the development of multifunctional features without compromising visual simplicity.
By 2025, the design transitioned to robotic 3D printing, a move driven by the desire to experiment with new forms and reduce material waste. Robotic printing allowed the creation of smooth, organic shapes that would be difficult to achieve with traditional fabrication. The technology also made it possible to optimize the table’s structure, reduce assembly steps, and maintain consistency across production runs.
A key challenge was designing the chimney-like feature at the top. This element doubles as a visual anchor and a table surface, contributing both function and character. To ensure it could be printed without support material, the form was shaped with subtle draft angles. This allowed the printer to build it layer by layer without interruption. The ends of the table were also tapered strategically to hold the cushion in place securely, offering both comfort and durability.
Multiple small-scale prototypes helped validate the design. These tests confirmed that the structure could be printed efficiently, the features functioned as intended, and the final piece maintained its visual appeal. The precision of robotic 3D printing also supported sustainability goals by minimizing waste and using only the material necessary.
The completed Dog Hut Side Table reflects a thoughtful combination of experimentation, iteration, and problem-solving. Its compact design provides a cozy retreat for pets while meeting the everyday needs of its human users. Through a playful yet practical approach, the project explores how furniture can evolve to support modern lifestyles, bringing people and pets closer, supported by technology that respects form, function, and environmental impact.
