When Chris Briffa Architects introduced its ‘Gallarija Miftuha’ back in 2012 – a traditional Maltese balcony that makes use of glass panes to reveal a view in its entirety, and which was in itself the solution to a client’s desire to enjoy a remarkable Grand Harbour view from his apartment balcony from every angle – the studio demonstrated its ingenuity and capacity to innovate with a creative, historically-sensitive and yet practical solution.
The same could be said for Jerry, which is the manifestation of founder Chris Briffa’s search for a perfect bedside table or, as he puts it, the “unsung hero of nocturnal routine”.
“We all appreciate a great bedside table,” Chris tells DesignDispatch, which “typically comes in the form of a small shelf and a hidden drawer beneath. We sought, with difficulty, a friendlier design that instinctively organises all the items which bookend your day.”
After a fruitless search and a serendipitous series of events, the architect created his own.
“At that time, we were moving home, and getting a good bedside was an urgent priority. When I met Joseph Baxter, a highly skilled artisan from Tasmania, it seemed like my sketches could finally come to life,” says Chris.
“We experimented with various heights, sizes, and proportions before finalising the first prototype, which took about a year and a half. We learned a great deal during its production, use and ageing (Jerry’s been my happy bedside for the past two years) so that the final version will feature even further polishing.”
Described as “something in between a bedside and a revolving cake stand”, Jerry features three curved tiers that keep the usual surface items within easy reach, while a cylindrical drawer flips open to conceal the items preferably kept out of sight.
“For instance, the top tray is perfect for small items like earbuds or jewellery, while the rotating drawer lid can hide a book or tablet. The drawer hides away remotes and chargers and mosquito repellents, while its corner-less design makes it easy to keep clean.”
The bedside table’s contemporary design is heightened by the choice of materials, a combination of solid oak for the shelves, MDF for the drawer, and steel for the legs and rotating mechanism.
“Oak is known for its versatility and ability to blend seamlessly into many interiors,” says Chris. “The black provides contrast and creates weightlessness around the curved edges. We could of course explore other options for the right project.”
Speaking of the right project, the intention is for Jerry to accompany other homeowners in their nighttime routines by the end of 2025, but the project will remain small in scale.
“Jerry was a ‘spirtu-pront’ project, conceived out of necessity and as a result of fortunate circumstances. We don’t plan to produce it in large quantities, as it demands skilled craftsmanship and precise mechanics. Therefore, I anticipate that there will be a limited supply of custom-made Jerrys by the end of this year,” the architect explains.
“All previous product designs have emerged from client/personal needs, or as extensions of other projects,” he concludes. “Pieces such as “Jack in the Bocks” (2005), “Gallarija Miftuħa” (2012), and “Red Blue Shelf” (2014) were created not out of a desire to venture into furniture design, but as a natural response to specific needs, situations, or experiences.”
Photography of Jerry bedside table by Hanna Briffa
