The superb labyrinth coffee table

Coffee tables are a mark of refinement. A badge of social status. A piece of furniture that manages to convey a sense of "Yes, I host people frequently enough to warrant buying an unusually small table exclusively for the purpose of leaving books, magazines and cups of coffee at shin level".

Novelty coffee tables are an altogether different magnitude of sophistication. 

New head of the novelty table table is this elegant offering from artist and furniture maker Benjamin Nordsmark; the Labyrinth Table.

Created to "show how a well-known object like a table can be given an extra dimension by creating a small universe inside of it", the Labyrinth Table contains a miniature diorama world under its diamont glass surface: a wooden maze holds six Subbuteo-esque figures, all of which can be moved by sliding accompanying magnets under the bottom of the table. 

A great deal classier than a foosball table (though arguably much less entertaining), it'll really tie together that novelty maze rug and Crystal Maze lampshade you've been meaning to fetch from the attic. Unfortunately, Nordsmark doesn't suggest his creation is for sale - you'll have to drop him a very polite email if you want one for yourself.

Failing that, one of these coffee tables should pique your interest

(Images: Benjamin Nordsmark)

[Via: Laughing Squid]