This two-tiered side table is unique as it comprises different materials -- teak, formica and rattan, and is mobile on castor wheels. It is predominantly made of teak, which is a type of hardwood commonly used for furniture in the tropics due to its durability, toughness and resistance to termites and insects. The tabletop uses formica, a popular laminate seen in furniture dating from the 1950s to the 1970s as it was favoured for its decorative patterns, as well as its low cost compared to lacquer. The shelf of the side table is woven with rattan, typically made from the tough inner core, or pith of the rattan vine, woven around the teak structure, in this example. It is generally considered to be a lightweight, breathable, comfortable and hygienic (when compared to upholstery) material, especially in the tropics where it would not warp or crack in heat and humidity. It is also a good example of mid-century modern furniture which emphasises on functionality, sleek designs, geometric forms, minimal ornamentation, as well as experimentation with and juxtaposition of different materials, both traditional and non-traditional.
