Why this table is a small-space champion + Event alert

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When you live in a small apartment, deciding on a new piece of furniture has a certain gravity. The item has to play well with what you already have, warrant the amount of space it takes up, and do the job it's meant to do efficiently.

I was reminded of this recently when looking for a new side table for beside my armchair. The one I was using was the right size for a drink or a book, and had an airy feel that suited my compact living quarters. It was also light enough to reposition easily...

...but it had serious drawbacks. It was designed as a plant stand and was quite top-heavy, meaning I'd knock it over occasionally. It was also so low that it was hard to see over the arm of my chair. I'd have to trust my aim when setting something down. I once miscalculated with a glass of cold brew and wound up with an icy caffeinated mess on the carpet.

I'd been a fan of the Bowler side table for a long time, and had a sense it would do the job better:

When Design Within Reach had a sale late last year, I assessed the table in person and decided to make a well-considered bet. I've been living with the piece for three months now and it's one of the few things I know I'll have for good. The table top is only slightly lower than the chair arm, so it's impossible to miss:

The surface is generous in size, but its thin profile gives a weightless impression:

At the same time, the sturdy support makes the piece a workhorse. It's like the stem of an umbrella, with the arched end functioning as a grip for easy relocation. The heavy base keeps the whole thing firmly planted and motionless when it needs to be:

It's the perfect prompt to dive into a book:

It's also a handy pedestal for favourite objects:

Even the name feels well-designed. "Bowler" might be a reference the shape of the base, which curves like the crown of a bowler hat. It also hints at the base's bowling-ball-like heft. For some reason, I picture one of Magritte's iconic men in bowler hats, this one carrying an umbrella to be ready for anything. It's a fitting image for a table that gracefully takes care of business.

Event alert

What's the largest mid-century object in Toronto? It could be a structure so familiar you might not even see it anymore:

The CN Tower was completed in 1976 and is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary this year. You may not know this, but from 1979 to 1991 it was home to Sparkles, a nightlife destination that hovered high atop all the others. I was delighted to learn that this Friday, as part of the half-century celebration, Sparkles is being reignited:

There’s a 1-night-only revival of the ‘world’s highest discotheque’ 114-storeys above Toronto

The CN Tower is getting a one-night only nightclub 114 storeys above ground inspired by a former venue that was held in the building. Here’s what to know.

Toronto.comIrelyne Lavery

So, if you're up for a memorable Friday night, you have two days to learn some vintage dance moves. Why simply collect mid-century when you can be it for a few hours?

Thank you for reading.