All Photos By Gail

The Coffee Table Model IN-50 by Isamu Noguchi is one of the most iconic modernist furniture designs of the 20th century. Designed in 1944 for Herman Miller, this table embodies Noguchi’s signature sculptural aesthetic, blending organic forms with functional design.

Design Features

The table’s base consists of two identical interlocking wooden elements that create a dynamic, sculptural foundation. The fluid, biomorphic forms reflect Noguchi’s background in sculpture. A thick, freeform glass tabletop rests on the wooden base, giving the table an airy, weightless feel while showcasing the strucure beneath. Originally, the base was made from wood finishes such as walnut, birch, and ebonized maple, supporting a ¾-inch thick glass top.

Artistic and Functional Significance

Noguchi described the IN-50 as his “best furniture design” because it combined sculpture and utility. It was introduced at a time when mid-century modernism was gaining popularity in the U.S., and the Herman Miller company played a key role in making it a commercial success. The table remains in production today, recognized as a classic of modern design and often imitated.

Noguchi Table and Eames Side Chair Model DCMU Circa 1969

Legacy and Influence

The Noguchi Table is part of permanent collections in major museums, including the MoMA in New York. It has influenced contemporary furniture designers, bridging the gap between art and function. Still widely available, the authentic Noguchi Coffee Table is produced by Herman Miller in North America and Vitra in Europe.

Photographed in the Museum of Modern Art in NYC