It's the kind of love story we adore. A slender beauty -- the mid-century hairpin leg -- meets a rugged old-timer -- the cinder-block-and-lumber insta-furniture that's graced so many a dorm room. They elope and produce a tot that combines the best traits of both.
Tick, a "universal table leg system" by German startup Linie 58, marries the elegance of one of its parents with the function-forward, frat-house practicality of the other.
Instead of relying on screws, Tick functions like a large paper clip: squeeze the feet to open the top, position the opening over a salvaged board (or piece of old Formica, or vintage toboggan, or church pew door, or skate deck), and release. The ensuing piece of furniture will add personal touch to your dorm room or modernist chalet. Just scored a fine slab of reclaimed hardwood? Simply unclamp the legs from their dowdier top and upgrade.
The legs are currently available in three colors and two sizes through the Linie 58 website, for 79 to 94 euros per pair.
Stateside DIY-ers who are willing to use simple tools can achieve a similar feat, minus the quick-release option, with a power drill and a pair from ModernLegs or Hairpin Legs.
Images courtesy of Jakob Schenk/Linie 58
