Assuming the weight and texture of an object only to later discover that it is nothing like what you expected is a surprising and pleasing occurrence. Sponge Table by Canadian designer Calen Knauf proposes just that. Made from carbonated aluminum panel—a common construction material in China—that once painted becomes completely unrecognizable as metal. The simple design of the table is meant to emphasize the use of material, toning down the alchemist quality of elevating a standard building material to a luxury good. The table is constructed of two panels with exposed pores and a top panel with a smooth surface on one side.

Aluminum Foam: D 40 x W 35 x H 35 cm