Going round in circles is almost never a good idea, unless you like wasting time. But wasting time is a good thing sometimes, and one way in which many people like to do nothing substantial is to pass the time sitting in or outside a café, a latte in hand, watching other people go by or having light conversation with friends. Sitting in a circle around something like the Ring Table by Orlando Fassetta would be a nice way to spend a lazy afternoon.

The café tables at my local Starbucks or Seattle’s Best coffeehouse aren’t Ring Tables, but that doesn’t matter. This piece of furniture is popular enough that it’s used at many other similar establishments worldwide. Created in 2003, it was designed by Fassetta to go along with his Cricket chairs, which he launched in 1999. The Ring Table, which is made of steel and has a plasticized finish, is durable enough to withstand the rigors of commercial applications. It can be used both indoors and outdoors. Measuring 28 inches high and with a table top diameter of 31 inches, it feels just the right size for a small group of people to have a cozy get-together. Leg room is no problem because the table’s legs curve outward gently, leaving more than enough space for a person to position his or her feet comfortably. The Ring Table is available in green or grey, solid colors that make mixing and matching with other furniture very easy.

The table’s round edge and the sloping legs make it look so charming. Even though it isn’t at all flashy when it comes to physical appearances, it somehow exudes a coy, fun, and flirtatious aura. Which is how conversations sometimes go among friends and lovers.