Coffee table by Ate van Apeldoorn, Holland, 1970’s (Sold)
This coffee table was designed by Ate van Apeldoorn and produced by Houtwerk Hattum in the Netherlands during the 1970’s. This table was made in solid pine and then stained afterwards. A very sturdy piece with Ate’s typical finger joinery on the corners. The wood shows some using marks but overall in good condition.
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Dimensions:
W: 75 cm
D: 50 cm
H: 40 cm
Weight: approx. 15 kilo
Material: Solid pine
Ate van Apeldoorn (1932-2007) was a Dutch furniture designer and craftsman known for his clean, minimalist style and focus on functionality. He studied at the Arnhem Academy of Fine Arts. Next he began his own workshop in 1958, later called ‘Houtwerk Hattem’. There he specialized in crafting solid wood furniture, particularly using oak and pine. His designs were influenced by the organic design movement and stood out for their simplicity and careful craftsmanship. Even today, Houtwerk Hattem is literally a round factory with a circular philosophy where every piece of wood is being used.
Van Apeldoorn often used traditional joinery techniques—like mortise and tenon joints—instead of nails or screws, which added to the strength and longevity of his pieces. Some of his best-known works include the “Donjon” chair and the “Vierkantje” table, both of which reflect his dedication to quality over mass production.
His work became especially popular in the 1970s and was widely exhibited. Even as his reputation grew, he remained committed to hands-on craftsmanship and avoided industrial manufacturing. A lot of his designs were made at Houtwerk Hattum He is one of Meteor Gallery’s favorite designers.
