Apollo is one of Stuart Melrose's earliest and most recognisable furniture designs—a piece that marked the beginning of a career exploring the relationship between art, architecture, engineering and contemporary design.
Inspired by the soaring roof structures of Exeter Cathedral while studying 3D Design at university, the project began as an exploration of architectural form and structural efficiency. At the same time, time spent observing traditional wooden boat construction and learning CNC routing alongside a specialist boat builder introduced another influence: the elegance and strength that can be achieved through interlocking components and carefully considered geometry.
Those two worlds—historic architecture and traditional craftsmanship—came together to inspire a design that, despite its classical influences, feels strikingly futuristic.
Exploring Structure Through Design
The origins of Apollo can be traced back to a simple experiment. After creating an interlocking sphere from slotted cardboard, Stuart became fascinated by how complex three-dimensional forms could be created from precisely engineered components.
Over the course of six weeks, the original prototype evolved through continual refinement as different forms, proportions and construction methods were explored. More than simply designing a coffee table, the project became an exercise in understanding structure, balance and the relationship between negative space and solid form.
From Prototype to Limited Edition
It was also the first piece Stuart felt truly proud of—a project that demonstrated the creative direction that would go on to define much of his later work.
Following the success of the original concept, Apollo was re-engineered as a premium furniture piece using HI-MACS® solid surface material and body-tinted toughened glass.
The flowing sculptural frame is complemented by coloured glass that captures and transmits light throughout the structure, creating subtle reflections and an almost illuminated appearance. The result is a piece that feels simultaneously organic and futuristic—combining influences from centuries-old architecture with a distinctly contemporary aesthetic.
From Student Project to International Recognition
Each Apollo table is individually handcrafted to order in England, finished by hand and produced as part of a limited edition of just 300 pieces. Every table carries the Stuart Melrose studio mark and its own individual edition number.
What began as a university exploration into form and construction has since become one of Stuart Melrose's signature designs.
Apollo has been exhibited at leading design exhibitions across the UK, including Grand Designs Live – House of the Future, 100% Design – Futures, and the Liverpool Design Show, while also receiving extensive international coverage across the global design press.
