The bentwood technique perfected by Michael Thonet was a source of inspiration for Marcel Breuer’s experiments with bent tubular steel. The four-piece set tables B 9 developed out of this idea. The small tables can be used in diversified ways – as side tables in seating groups, as practical storage surfaces or as the perfect place for a vase with fresh flowers. After using the tables, they can be easily pushed beneath one another in a space-saving way. The special feature of this range is its functional simplicity – the set tables consist only of chrome-plated, bent tubular steel and rectangular panels.

During his time at the Bauhaus, Marcel Breuer experimented with steel and tubular steel, a new and promising material for furniture. The close interchange with the aircraft manufacturer Junkers in Dessau accelerated the development process. His first designs included the set tables B 9 and various shelves and pieces of side furniture. The Thonet card catalogue from 1930/31 already included the complete product range. Breuer originally designed the B 9 for the cafeteria of the Bauhaus building in Dessau. The small, versatile table was also used in Walter Gropius’ student’s apartments and Master Houses.