Moss & Lam uses "alchemic" Italian technique to craft marbled W1 tables

Canadian design studio Moss & Lam rediscovered a traditional craft process to create this collection of patterned side tables

The scagliola technique dates back to the 17th century, and involves combining plaster, pigment and glue to create a faux-marble surface. According to the studio the process was once considered "a poor man's alternative to precious stone", although over time has come to be valued more.

"The almost alchemic transformation of simple substances – water, glue, pigment and plaster – results in a striking surface, especially when applied to W1's contemporary shapes," said the studio .