As the Summer heat rages on, we find ourselves lost in fantasies of designs and materials with a slightly cooler edge, such as those that incorporate metals. The earliest evidence of metalworking can be traced back thousands of years, but only in much more recent history has metal taken center stage in furniture design. Sleek and versatile, this cool-to-the-touch material has an unmatched capability to elevate designs in ways that feel new and exciting, while also offering strength and durability. This week, we’re highlighting five designs that showcase the beauty, versatility, and ingenuity of metal.

A table with a name like “Epic” must have quite a profound presence to be worthy of such an adjective; and this table certainly is. In steel, this design takes on an even stronger, more pronounced identity, while adopting an industrial, contemporary edge. Available as both a dining table and a coffee table, this sculptural piece of furniture was inspired by Greek columns and Roman architecture, with the intention of making a lasting impression. The steel plates have been galvanized, lacquered, and then treated with a series of hand-finishing processes to create a unique surface expression for each table. Available in midnight black, misty grey, or earthy red.

It's clear from its appearance where Aluminium's name comes from, but there is more to this innovative design than meets the eye. Chic yet industrial, Aluminium is as much an original work of art as it is a functional piece of furniture. The design presents a stunning visual contrast between its plush upholstery, sleek steel frame, and wooden armrests. A chair unlike any other we’ve seen before, Aluminium is an exceptionally striking statement piece, and an obvious conversation starter for the contemporary home, as well as forward-thinking restaurants, lounges, museums, and hotels. Seat upholstered in Tarnsjo leather. Armrest available in natural, stained, or black walnut, or beech.

With Gioielli, Giopato and Coombes continue their unstoppable track record of exceptionally innovative designs. Exhibiting the perfect combination of geometric and expressive forms, technology and decoration, the Gioielli light presents an artistic design that instantly becomes a statement piece within an interior. The design is defined by the creative and unexpected juxtaposition of different shapes and materials, and the contrast between its gold metallic structure and emerald murano glass "gems," which almost carry a futuristic and magical air about them. The combination of reflective materials and relationship between each shape creates harmony, and unites the entire composition.

Leather, wood, and steel join together in perfect harmony in the Geometric Side Chair. Like most of BassamFellows’ designs, the Geometric Side Chair draws from clear mid-century influences while incorporating a contemporary edge. The result is an elegant chair that fully transforms both the appearance of your dining space and the feeling of your dining experience. Leather wrapping provides extra comfort and support by connecting the two structural elements of the chair’s tubular steel back, while also adding a stylish visual detail.

Designed by two young design students in their senior year at Beckmans College of Design in Stockholm, Sweden, Ridå was created as part of an assignment where students were commissioned to present ideas for new products for various Swedish furniture and interior design companies. Kallemo was so intrigued by Ridå, that they decided to produce it for their collection, made entirely from solid steel. Describing the design’s intended use, the designers explain: “The concept is a piece efficient for storing clothes that also works as a room within the room, with its own distinct form, even when empty. The brief stated that the design should be timeless, not following any trends. It’s quite a substantial and heavy piece that will age with grace, but we think it makes a light and airy impression with its transparency.”